UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2018: Public Administration Paper 1 (Section- A) | Public Administration Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Q.1. Answer the following Questions in about 150 words each: (10 x 5=50)

(a) "The scope of the discipline of Public Administration is determined by what an administrative system does." Does it mean that (he scope of this discipline is boundary less ? Explain.    (10 Marks)

The scope of the discipline of Public Administration is determined by the functions and responsibilities of an administrative system, which includes policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation, as well as the provision of public services. While it is true that the scope of Public Administration is vast and covers various aspects of governance, it is not entirely boundary-less. The discipline is primarily concerned with the functioning of governmental organizations and their interactions with other stakeholders in the society. It is guided by certain principles, theories, and techniques that help in streamlining the functioning of the administrative system. However, the scope of Public Administration does not extend to all aspects of social and economic life, and is limited to the domain of public institutions and their functions.

(b) " I he concepts of rationality and efficiency are intertwined in the bureaucratic analysts of Max Weber." Comment.    (10 Marks)

Max Weber's bureaucratic analysis focuses on the concepts of rationality and efficiency as the driving forces behind the development of modern bureaucracies. According to Weber, rationality is the process of making decisions based on logic and reason, while efficiency is the ability to achieve desired results with minimum wasted effort or expense. In his view, the bureaucratic structure is an ideal organizational form because it promotes both rationality and efficiency. The hierarchical structure, clear division of labor, and well-defined roles and responsibilities within the bureaucracy enable the organization to function in a rational and efficient manner. Weber's emphasis on the interrelation between rationality and efficiency highlights the importance of these concepts in understanding the functioning and effectiveness of bureaucratic systems.

(c) “New Public Service approach is an improvement over its predecessor, New Public Management" Discuss.    (10 Marks)

New Public Service (NPS) approach is considered an improvement over its predecessor, New Public Management (NPM), as it focuses more on the values of public service, democratic governance, and citizen engagement. While NPM prioritizes efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and market-driven solutions, NPS emphasizes the importance of public administrators being responsive to the needs of citizens and fostering a sense of public service. NPS also recognizes the importance of collaboration, public participation, and social equity in the decision-making process. This approach aims to strike a balance between the efficiency-driven approach of NPM and the value-based principles of traditional public administration, making it more relevant to the contemporary challenges faced by public organizations.

(d) "A leader is a peopled developer” (Napoleon). Which aspects of subordinates' development can be positively influenced by a leader? Discuss.    (10 Marks)

A leader, as Napoleon rightly pointed out, is a people developer. A good leader can positively influence the subordinates' development by:

• Providing opportunities for skill development and growth by offering training, mentoring, and coaching.
• Encouraging creativity and innovation by creating a supportive work environment.
• Empowering subordinates by delegating responsibilities and giving them autonomy in decision-making.
• Recognizing and appreciating the efforts and contributions of subordinates, which boosts their morale and motivation.
• Providing constructive feedback and guidance to help subordinates improve their performance and learn from their mistakes.
• Fostering a collaborative work culture that encourages teamwork, communication, and mutual support among team members.

(e) “Herbert Simon's book Administrative Behaviour presents a synthesis of the classical anti behavioural approaches to the study of Public Administration.” Explain.    (10 Marks)

Herbert Simon's book "Administrative Behavior" presents a synthesis of the classical and behavioral approaches to the study of Public Administration. Simon critiques the classical approach, which emphasizes rigid organizational structures and formal procedures, for its lack of attention to the human element in organizations. He introduces the concept of "bounded rationality," which acknowledges the limitations of human decision-making and the influence of psychological factors on administrative behavior.
Simon's work bridges the gap between the classical and behavioral approaches by providing a more comprehensive understanding of administrative behavior, incorporating both the structural aspects of organizations and the psychological factors influencing individual decision-makers. This synthesis allows for a more nuanced analysis of public administration and paves the way for the development of more effective organizational structures and management practices that take into account the complexities of human behavior.

Q.2.(a) Dwight Waldo in this book. The Administrative State emphatically mentions dial die roots of administrative theory lie in political theory. Critically examine Waldo’s contention.    (20 Marks)

Dwight Waldo, in his book "The Administrative State," emphasizes that the roots of administrative theory lie in political theory. According to him, administrative theory cannot be separated from political theory, as both are closely related, and the study of public administration should be based on this understanding.
Waldo's contention can be critically examined based on the following points:

• Interdependence of administration and politics: Waldo argues that public administration is an integral part of the political process, and the two cannot be separated. He emphasizes that the administrative actions are influenced by the political environment and values, which makes it essential to study the relationship between the two. This view challenges the traditional dichotomy between politics and administration, which suggests that the two can be studied independently.
• Values and ethics in administration: Waldo emphasizes the role of values and ethics in public administration. According to him, public administrators should be guided by the values and principles of the political system they serve. This perspective highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the political context in which public administration operates, as it directly impacts the values and ethics that guide administrative actions.
• Democratic accountability: Waldo argues that public administration must be accountable to the citizens and the political system. He believes that a strong democratic system is necessary to ensure that public administrators are guided by the public interest and not their personal interests. This view emphasizes the importance of studying the political mechanisms that ensure democratic accountability in public administration.

However, Waldo's contention has also been criticized on the following grounds:

• Overemphasis on politics: Critics argue that Waldo's emphasis on the relationship between politics and administration may lead to an overemphasis on the role of politics in public administration. They argue that this might distract from the focus on the technical and managerial aspects of public administration, which are equally important for efficient and effective public service delivery.
• Lack of universal applicability: Waldo's contention is mainly based on the context of democratic societies. Critics argue that his emphasis on political theory may not be universally applicable, as the relationship between politics and administration can differ significantly in non-democratic or authoritarian political contexts.

(b) “The Phenomennlogical Approach advocated hy the New Puhlic Administration has obstructed the path of theory building in Public Administration.” Comment.   (15 Marks)

The phenomenological approach advocated by the New Public Administration (NPA) has been criticized for obstructing the path of theory building in Public Administration. The NPA's phenomenological approach focuses on understanding the subjective experiences, perspectives, and interpretations of individuals involved in public administration. This approach has been critiqued on the following grounds:

• Lack of objectivity: Critics argue that the phenomenological approach's emphasis on subjective experiences can lead to a lack of objectivity in public administration research. They argue that the focus on individual perspectives and interpretations can result in biased and ungeneralizable findings, which can hinder the development of generalizable theories in public administration.
• Difficulty in measurement: The phenomenological approach focuses on understanding complex and intangible factors such as individual perceptions, values, and emotions. Critics argue that these factors are difficult to measure and quantify, which can make it challenging to develop testable hypotheses and build robust theories in public administration.
• Relativism: The phenomenological approach can lead to an overemphasis on the uniqueness of individual experiences and interpretations, which can result in a relativist perspective that undermines the development of general theories in public administration. Critics argue that this can limit the discipline's ability to identify best practices and develop universally applicable solutions to administrative problems.

(c) Discuss the essential characteristics of public sector-centred and market-centred perspectives in Public Private Partnerships and also compare the two.    (15 Marks)

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can be analyzed from two perspectives: public sector-centered and market-centered perspectives. The essential characteristics of these perspectives are as follows:
Public sector-centered perspective:

• Emphasis on public interest: This perspective emphasizes the role of the public sector in ensuring that PPPs serve the public interest and contribute to social welfare.
• Strong government regulation: The public sector-centered perspective advocates for strong government regulation and oversight to ensure that PPPs are aligned with public policy objectives and deliver high-quality services.
• Equity and social justice: This perspective emphasizes the need for PPPs to address issues of equity and social justice by ensuring that the benefits of public services are accessible to all citizens, including marginalized and vulnerable populations.

Market-centered perspective:

• Emphasis on efficiency: The market-centered perspective focuses on the potential of PPPs to increase efficiency in public service delivery through market-driven mechanisms such as competition and innovation.
• Limited government intervention: This perspective advocates for limited government intervention in PPPs, arguing that market forces can best determine the optimal allocation of resources and service delivery.
• Profit-driven approach: The market-centered perspective emphasizes the role of private sector actors in driving PPPs for profit maximization, which can lead to cost savings and improved service quality.

Comparison:

(i) Public sector-centered perspective focuses on ensuring public interest and social welfare, while the market-centered perspective emphasizes efficiency and profit maximization.
(ii) The public sector-centered perspective advocates for strong government regulation and oversight, while the market-centered perspective emphasizes limited government intervention.

Q.3.(a) Communicatiion represents the “Nerves of Government" (Karl Deutsch). How can the communication system in the government be made more effective, responsive and motivational ?    (20 Marks)

Effective communication is vital for the smooth functioning of any government. It ensures that the policies and programs of the government reach the citizens and are implemented efficiently. To make the communication system in the government more effective, responsive, and motivational, the following measures can be taken:

• Use of modern technology: Governments should make the best use of available technology to improve communication channels. This includes using social media platforms, mobile applications, and websites to disseminate information and connect with the public.
• Transparency and openness: Information about government policies, decisions, and programs should be made easily accessible to the public. This can be done through regular press briefings, proactive disclosure of information, and implementing Right to Information laws effectively.
• Timely and accurate information: Governments should ensure that the information provided to the public is timely, accurate, and reliable. This can be achieved by establishing strong internal communication mechanisms and training government officials in effective communication skills.
• Feedback mechanisms: Governments should establish effective feedback mechanisms to ensure that the public's concerns, complaints, and suggestions are addressed promptly. This can include setting up helplines, grievance redressal systems, and public consultation processes.
• Decentralization of communication: Empowering local authorities and institutions to communicate with the public can ensure better responsiveness and adaptability to local needs and preferences.

(b) “Political and administrative system have reciprocal relationship." Discuss.    (15 Marks)

The political and administrative systems are intertwined and have a reciprocal relationship. The political system refers to the processes and institutions through which decisions are made and implemented, while the administrative system deals with the execution of these decisions. The following points illustrate the reciprocal relationship between the two:

• Policy formulation: The political system is responsible for formulating policies and making decisions, while the administrative system implements these policies. In this process, the administrative system provides inputs and feedback to the political system, thus influencing policy decisions.
• Representation and accountability: The political system represents the interests of the citizens and is accountable to them. The administrative system, on the other hand, is accountable to the political system, which in turn is accountable to the people. This chain of accountability ensures that the administration works in the interest of the citizens.
• Control and supervision: The political system exercises control and supervision over the administrative system to ensure that it functions efficiently and effectively. The administrative system, in turn, needs the support and guidance of the political system to carry out its tasks.
• Responsiveness: Both the political and administrative systems need to be responsive to the needs of the citizens. The political system must be sensitive to public opinion and demands, while the administrative system must be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances.
• Stability and continuity: The political system provides stability and continuity to the administrative system by ensuring that rules and procedures are followed, and that there is a smooth transition during government changes.

(c) "An effective Management Information System (MIS) is the key to successful headquarter-field relationships.” Comment.    (15 Marks)

An effective Management Information System (MIS) is a vital tool for successful headquarter-field relationships in any organization, including government institutions. An MIS helps in collecting, processing, and disseminating information that is crucial for decision-making and monitoring the performance of various field units. The significance of an MIS in ensuring successful headquarter-field relationships can be understood through the following points:

• Information flow: An effective MIS ensures a smooth flow of information between the headquarters and field units. It facilitates communication, coordination, and collaboration among different departments and levels of the organization.
• Decision-making: An MIS provides accurate, timely, and relevant data to the headquarters, which helps in making informed decisions. It enables the management to evaluate the performance of field units and take corrective actions when necessary.
• Monitoring and evaluation: An effective MIS allows the headquarters to monitor and evaluate the performance of field units regularly. It helps in identifying bottlenecks, assessing the impact of policies, and ensuring that the objectives of the organization are being met.
• Accountability and transparency: An MIS promotes accountability and transparency within the organization by providing data on the performance of field units. It enables the management to track the progress of various projects and ensure that resources are being utilized efficiently.
• Adaptability and responsiveness: An effective MIS allows the headquarters to be more adaptable and responsive to the needs of field units. It helps in identifying emerging trends, changing priorities, and new challenges, enabling the organization to respond promptly and effectively.

In conclusion, an effective Management Information System (MIS) is crucial for successful headquarter-field relationships in any organization, including government institutions. It enables efficient communication, coordination, decision-making, monitoring, and evaluation, which are essential for the smooth functioning of the organization.

Q.4.(a) "Form of an organisation influences the success of a public enterprise, but the choice of a form has always remained problematic” Discuss the statement in the context of the comparative merits and limitations of departments, corporations, companies and boards. Give illustrations.    (20 Marks)

The form of an organization plays a significant role in determining the success of a public enterprise. Four main forms of organization include departments, corporations, companies, and boards. Each of these forms has its own merits and limitations, which influence the effectiveness and efficiency of public enterprises.

• Departments: Departments are the basic units of government administration, headed by a minister or a secretary. They are directly responsible to the legislature and are funded by the government. The merit of this form is that it allows for direct political control and accountability. However, the limitation is that it often leads to excessive bureaucracy and inefficiency.
• Corporations: Public corporations are separate legal entities created by the government to undertake specific functions. They have more autonomy and flexibility compared to departments. The merit of this form is that it allows for more efficient management and operations. However, the limitation is that they may lack direct political control and accountability.
• Companies: Public companies are commercial enterprises owned by the government. They operate under the same legal framework as private companies, which allows them to compete in the market. The merit of this form is that it promotes efficiency and innovation. However, the limitation is that they may prioritize profit over public interest.
• Boards: Boards are non-departmental public bodies that are responsible for specific functions. They are usually composed of experts and stakeholders in a particular field. The merit of this form is that it allows for better decision-making and specialized expertise. However, the limitation is that they may be less accountable to the public and may lack the authority to implement decisions.

Illustrations:

• Departments: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in India is responsible for public health policy and the provision of healthcare services.
• Corporations: The Indian Railways is a public corporation responsible for rail transport in India.
• Companies: Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is a public company engaged in the manufacturing of heavy electrical equipment.
• Boards: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in India is responsible for the regulation and development of secondary education in the country.

(b) “Chester Barnard's model of ‘Contribution-Satisfaction Equilibrium" is Still considered a logical model of organisational motivation.” Do you agree ? Give arguments.    (15 Marks)

Chester Barnard's model of 'Contribution-Satisfaction Equilibrium' is indeed still considered a logical model of organizational motivation. According to this model, organizations are able to function effectively when there is a balance between the contributions of employees and the satisfaction they receive from their work.
The model emphasizes the importance of both tangible (e.g., salary, promotions) and intangible (e.g., job satisfaction, sense of purpose) rewards in motivating employees. It also acknowledges the role of social and psychological factors in influencing employee behavior.
Barnard's model remains relevant today as it highlights the importance of understanding employee needs and preferences in order to create an environment where they feel valued and motivated. In a competitive business environment, organizations that are able to maintain a contribution-satisfaction equilibrium are more likely to retain skilled and committed employees, which in turn leads to higher productivity and organizational success.

(c) "The political approach to Public Administration stresses on the values of representativeness political responsiveness and accountability through elected officials to the citizenry" (David H. Rosenbloom). Comment.    (15 Marks)

The political approach to public administration, as highlighted by David H. Rosenbloom, focuses on the values of representativeness, political responsiveness, and accountability through elected officials. This approach emphasizes the importance of democratic institutions and processes in ensuring that public administration serves the interests of the citizenry.
Representativeness refers to the idea that public administrators should reflect the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the citizens they serve. This can lead to more inclusive and effective policy-making, as well as increased trust in government institutions.
Political responsiveness is the ability of public administrators to respond to the needs and preferences of citizens in a timely and appropriate manner. This can involve engaging with various stakeholder groups, conducting public consultations, and incorporating feedback into policy decisions.
Accountability through elected officials ensures that public administrators are held responsible for their actions and decisions. This can involve regular reporting to elected representatives, as well as mechanisms for citizens to voice their concerns and grievances.

In conclusion, the political approach to public administration emphasizes the importance of democratic values and processes in ensuring that public institutions serve the public interest. By promoting representativeness, political responsiveness, and accountability, this approach contributes to more effective and legitimate public administration.