UPSC Civil Services Mains 2015 — General Studies Paper II

Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for itscitizens a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. 12‘/2

The concept o f cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasized in recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to which cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings. 12 Vz

In absence o f a well-educated and organized local level government system, ‘Panchayats’ and ‘Samitis’ have remained mainly political institutions and not effective instruments o f governance. Critically discuss. 12V*

Khap Panchayats have been in the news for functioning as extra-constitutional authorities, often delivering pronouncements amounting to human rights violations. Discuss critically the actions taken by the legislative, executive and the judiciary to set the things right in this regard. 12%

Resorting to ordinances has always raised concern on violation o f the spirit o f separation of powers doctrine. While noting the rationales justifying the power to promulgate ordinances, analyze whether the decisions of the Supreme Court on the issue have further facilitated resorting to this power. Should the power to promulgate ordinances

What are the m ajor changes brought in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 through the recent Ordinance promulgated by the President? How far w ill it improve India’s dispute resolution mechanism? Discuss. 12Y2

Does the right to clean environment entail legal regulations on burning crackers during Diwali? Discuss in the light o f Article 21 o f the Indian Constitution and Judgement(s) of the Apex Court in this regard. 12Vi

Examine critically the recent changes in the rules governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976. 12Vi

The Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP), which is India’s own innovation, has proved to be one of the most effective poverty alleviation and women empowerment programmes. Elucidate. 12 Vi

How can the role o f NGOs be strengthened in India for developm ent works relating to protection of the environment? Discuss throwing light on the m ajor constraints. 12 Vi

The quality of higher education in India requires major improvem ents to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry o f foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of higher and technical education in the country? Discuss. 12 Vi

Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that the private sector could help in bridging the gap? W hat other viable alternatives would you suggest? 12 Vi

Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators. 12 Vi

In the light of the Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in corporate governance to ensure transparency, accountability. 12 V2

“If am endment bill to the W histleblowers Act, 2011 tabled in the Parliament is passed, there may be no one left to protect.” Critically evaluate. 12’/2

“For achieving the desired objectives, it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous.” Discuss in the light o f the experiences in recent past. 12Va

Increasing interest o f India in Africa has its pros and cons.Critically examine. 12 Vi

Discuss the im pediments India is facing in its pursuit o f a perm anent seat in UN Security Council. 12Y2

Project ‘M ausam ’ is considered a unique foreign policy initiative o f the Indian Government to improve relationship with its neighbours. Does the project have a strategic dimension? Discuss. 12 V2

Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded India-Pakistan relations. To what extent the use o f soft power like sports and cultural exchanges could help generate goodwill between the two countries? Discuss with suitable examples. 12 V2