UPSC Mains General Studies (Paper 2) - Mock Test 3 [Solutions] | UPSC Mains Mock Test Series 2025 PDF Download

Q1. Examine the role of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in ensuring financial accountability of the executive. How do its limitations impact its oversight functions? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), a key parliamentary body in India, ensures the executive uses public funds wisely. Set up under the 1919 Montague-Chelmsford Reforms, it checks government spending and promotes transparency.

Body

Key Roles of PAC:

• Checking Spending: Reviews government accounts to ensure money is spent as approved by Parliament.
• Audit Scrutiny: Examines CAG reports to spot financial mismanagement, like in the 2G spectrum case.
• Holding Executive Accountable: Questions officials on wasteful spending, ensuring responsibility.

Limitations Affecting Oversight:

• Limited Expertise: Members may lack technical knowledge to deeply analyze complex finances.
• Advisory Role: PAC’s recommendations are not mandatory, reducing their impact.
• Weak Enforcement: Some officials avoid PAC summons, undermining its authority.

Conclusion

The PAC is vital for financial oversight, but its limitations reduce effectiveness. Strengthening its powers, improving expertise, and ensuring compliance can enhance its role in ensuring accountability.

Q2. Comment on the significance of the Doctrine of Separation of Powers in the Indian Constitution. How is it balanced with checks and balances in practice? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Doctrine of Separation of Powers divides government into legislature, executive, and judiciary to prevent any one branch from dominating. In India’s Constitution, it ensures fair governance and protects citizens’ rights.

Body

Significance in Indian Constitution:

• Prevents Misuse of Power: Keeps each branch independent, avoiding autocracy.
• Improves Governance: Each organ focuses on its role, like the judiciary protecting rights in cases like Maneka Gandhi.
• Safeguards Rights: Independent courts ensure fundamental rights are upheld.

Checks and Balances in Practice:

• Judicial Oversight: Courts can strike down laws or actions against the Constitution.
• Parliamentary Control: Legislature monitors executive through debates and committees.
• Executive Checks: President’s powers, like issuing ordinances, need parliamentary approval.

Conclusion

The Doctrine of Separation of Powers strengthens India’s democracy by balancing authority. Checks and balances, like judicial review, ensure no branch oversteps, maintaining fairness and accountability.

Q3. India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka. Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

India and Sri Lanka share strong historical and cultural ties, making India a trusted friend. During Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic and political crisis, India stepped in with significant support, proving its commitment to this bond.

Body

India’s Support:

• Financial Aid: Gave over $4 billion, including loans for food, fuel, and medicines, easing shortages.
• Humanitarian Help: Sent essentials like rice and medical supplies to support struggling families.
• Global Support: Backed Sri Lanka in talks with the IMF for debt relief.

Strengthening Ties:

• Economic Projects: Supported initiatives like the Trincomalee oil tank farm to boost Sri Lanka’s economy.
• Regional Leadership: India’s aid countered external influence, reinforcing its role as a regional ally.

Conclusion

India’s timely help during Sri Lanka’s crisis strengthened their friendship. By providing aid and support, India ensured stability and deepened bilateral ties for mutual growth.

Q4. Discuss the challenges in implementing the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, in ensuring inclusive education. Suggest measures to bridge the gap in quality education. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, guarantees free education for children aged 6-14 under Article 21A. While it boosted school enrollment, challenges in achieving inclusive and quality education remain.

Body

Challenges in Implementation:

• Limited Funds: States struggle to meet funding needs, estimated at Rs. 1.71 trillion, affecting schools’ resources.
• Poor Quality: Weak teacher training and lack of facilities, especially in rural areas, lower learning outcomes.
• Private School Issues: The 25% quota for poorer students faces resistance from schools and legal hurdles.

Measures to Improve:

• Increase Funding: Share costs between central and state governments to improve schools.
• Better Training: Regular teacher training programs to enhance teaching skills.
• Strong Monitoring: Empower local committees to ensure schools follow RTE rules.

Conclusion

The RTE Act has expanded access, but quality gaps persist. More funds, better training, and strong oversight can ensure inclusive, quality education for all.

Q5. Evaluate the role of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) in addressing child welfare issues. What reforms are needed to strengthen its mandate? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks) 

Answer:

Introduction

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), formed under the 2005 CPCR Act, protects child rights in India. It monitors laws and addresses issues like child labor and education, ensuring child welfare.

Body

Role of NCPCR:

• Law Monitoring: Ensures laws like RTE and POCSO are followed, protecting children’s rights.
• Handling Complaints: Investigates issues like child trafficking, acting like a civil court.
• Policy Suggestions: Recommends safety measures, like guidelines for schools to prevent abuse.

Reforms Needed:

• Stronger Powers: Give NCPCR authority to enforce its decisions directly.
• More Resources: Increase staff and funds to handle more cases effectively.
• Better Coordination: Work closely with state bodies to ensure consistent action nationwide.

Conclusion

The NCPCR is key to child welfare, but limited powers and resources weaken it. Stronger authority, more resources, and better coordination can make it more effective in protecting children.

Q6. Analyze the impact of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council on Centre-State financial relations. How has it shaped cooperative federalism? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council, set up under Article 279A, is a joint body of Centre and States to oversee GST implementation. It has reshaped Centre-State financial relations by fostering dialogue and consensus, strengthening cooperative federalism.

Body

Impact on Financial Relations:

• Shared Decision-Making: The Council ensures States have a say in tax rates and policies, unlike earlier centralized tax systems.
• Revenue Sharing: Guarantees States compensation for revenue losses for five years, building trust.
• Uniform Tax Structure: Creates a single tax system, reducing disputes over tax jurisdiction.

Shaping Cooperative Federalism:

• Consensus-Based Approach: Decisions require a three-fourths majority, encouraging collaboration, as seen in GST rate revisions.
• Conflict Resolution: Resolves issues like tax exemptions, promoting unity.
• State Empowerment: States influence national tax policies, balancing power.

Conclusion

The GST Council has strengthened Centre-State financial ties by promoting shared governance and trust. It fosters cooperative federalism, ensuring a unified yet inclusive tax system for India’s growth.

Q7. Comment on the role of social media in shaping public opinion in democratic governance. How can misinformation be regulated without curbing free speech? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

Social media plays a major role in shaping public opinion in democracies by enabling information sharing and public discourse. However, misinformation poses challenges, requiring regulation without restricting free speech.

Body

Role in Shaping Public Opinion:

• Amplifying Voices: Platforms like X allow citizens to express views, influencing policies, as seen in the farmers’ protests.
• Fast Information Spread: News reaches millions instantly, shaping voter opinions during elections.
• Engaging Youth: Encourages younger generations to participate in democratic debates.

Regulating Misinformation:

• Fact-Checking Units: Set up independent teams to verify content, like India’s PIB Fact Check.
• User Awareness: Promote media literacy to help people spot false information.
• Platform Accountability: Enforce transparent content moderation without censoring valid opinions.

Conclusion

Social media empowers democratic participation but risks misinformation. Balanced regulation through fact-checking, awareness, and platform accountability can curb false narratives while protecting free speech, ensuring healthy public discourse.

Q8. Discuss the strategic significance of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy in fostering regional stability. Provide examples of its application in South Asia. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy prioritizes strong ties with South Asian neighbors to promote regional stability and mutual growth. It strengthens India’s role as a regional leader, fostering peace and cooperation.

Body

Strategic Significance:

• Regional Stability: Builds trust to resolve conflicts, ensuring a peaceful South Asia.
• Economic Growth: Promotes trade and connectivity, like the India-Bangladesh trade agreement.
• Countering External Influence: Strengthens India’s influence against powers like China.

Examples in South Asia:

• Sri Lanka Crisis Aid: Provided $4 billion in 2022 for food and fuel, stabilizing its economy.
• Maldives Cooperation: Signed defense and infrastructure agreements to boost ties.
• Nepal Connectivity: Supported projects like the Janakpur railway to enhance cross-border links.

Conclusion

The ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy fosters stability by building trust and cooperation in South Asia. Through aid and projects, India strengthens regional ties, countering external influences and promoting peace.

Q9. Examine the role of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme in addressing gender disparities. What are its achievements and limitations? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, launched in 2015, aims to address gender disparities by improving the child sex ratio and promoting girls’ education. It tackles issues like female foeticide and gender inequality.

Body

Achievements:

• Improved Sex Ratio: Child sex ratio rose in many districts, e.g., 918 to 934 in Haryana (2014-2019).
• Increased Awareness: Campaigns educated communities about gender equality, reducing discrimination.
• Better Education Access: More girls enrolled in schools, especially in rural areas.

Limitations:

• Uneven Implementation: Success varies across states due to weak local coordination.
• Limited Funding: Insufficient funds hamper awareness campaigns and monitoring.
• Cultural Barriers: Deep-rooted patriarchal norms slow progress in some regions.

Conclusion

BBBP has reduced gender disparities by improving sex ratios and education access. However, uneven implementation and cultural challenges limit its impact. Stronger funding and local efforts can enhance its effectiveness.

Q10. Comment on India’s role in promoting peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region through initiatives like SAGAR. How does it counterbalance China’s influence? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative promotes peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It counters China’s growing influence by fostering cooperation and security.

Body

Promoting Peace and Stability:

• Maritime Security: Strengthens naval cooperation to secure sea lanes, ensuring safe trade routes.
• Disaster Response: Provides humanitarian aid, like during the 2019 Mozambique cyclone.
• Economic Ties: Supports port development, e.g., Chabahar Port, boosting regional trade.

Countering China’s Influence:

• Strategic Partnerships: Builds ties with countries like Maldives to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
• Naval Presence: Increases patrols to balance China’s naval expansion in IOR.
• Capacity Building: Trains maritime forces of smaller nations, reducing reliance on China.

Conclusion

Through SAGAR, India promotes peace and economic growth in the IOR while countering China’s influence. Stronger partnerships and naval presence ensure a stable, secure region.

Q11. Critically analyze the Supreme Court’s role in protecting fundamental rights through public interest litigation (PIL). Discuss its impact on judicial activism with reference to landmark cases. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Supreme Court of India has been a guardian of fundamental rights through Public Interest Litigation (PIL), enabling citizens to seek justice for public issues. PILs have expanded access to justice, especially for marginalized groups, but raised concerns about judicial overreach and activism.

Body

Role in Protecting Fundamental Rights:

• Expanding Access: PILs allow anyone to file cases for public welfare, protecting rights under Articles 14, 19, and 21, e.g., Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997) set workplace harassment guidelines.
• Social Justice: Ensured rights for underprivileged, like in Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation (1985), upholding slum dwellers’ right to livelihood.
• Environmental Protection: Upheld Article 21’s right to a clean environment, as in MC Mehta v. Union of India (1986).

Impact on Judicial Activism:

• Policy Influence: PILs led to judicial directives shaping laws, raising concerns about overstepping legislative roles.
• Executive Accountability: Held governments accountable, e.g., 2G spectrum case (2012), but risked judicial overload.
• Criticism of Overreach: Excessive interference in policy matters, like Delhi’s CNG bus mandate, sparked debates on separation of powers.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s PIL mechanism has strengthened fundamental rights, ensuring justice for the marginalized. However, judicial activism through PILs sometimes blurs the line between judiciary and legislature. Balancing activism with restraint and clear guidelines can ensure PILs remain a tool for justice without undermining democratic boundaries.

Q12. Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further, also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Maldives, located in the Indian Ocean, holds immense geopolitical and geostrategic importance for India due to its proximity and role in global trade and energy flows. India’s close ties with the Maldives bolster maritime security and regional stability amidst competition from powers like China.

Body

Geopolitical and Geostrategic Importance:

• Trade Routes: Maldives sits along key shipping lanes, handling 50% of India’s trade and 80% of energy imports, vital for economic security.
• Energy Security: Proximity to oil routes from the Middle East ensures stable energy flows for India.
• Strategic Location: Maldives’ position strengthens India’s influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), countering external powers.

Impact on Maritime Security and Stability:

• Defense Cooperation: India’s training of Maldivian forces and coastal radar systems enhance maritime surveillance, e.g., 2021 defense pact.
• Countering China: India’s aid and projects, like the Greater Male Connectivity Project, offset China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
• Regional Stability: India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy promotes peace, as seen in 2018 crisis support, preventing instability.

Conclusion

The Maldives is critical for India’s trade, energy, and maritime security due to its strategic location. Strong bilateral ties counterbalance China’s influence, ensuring stability in the IOR. Deepening defense and economic cooperation can further secure India’s interests.

Q13. Evaluate the effectiveness of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) in addressing healthcare disparities at the grassroots level. Suggest reforms to enhance its outreach and impact. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), launched in 2005, aims to reduce healthcare disparities in rural India by improving access to quality healthcare. It has made strides but faces challenges in achieving equitable health outcomes.

Body

Effectiveness of NRHM:

• Improved Access: Increased healthcare facilities, with over 150,000 sub-centers established, boosting rural healthcare access.
• Health Outcomes: Reduced infant mortality rates (from 55 to 35 per 1,000 births, 2005-2015) and maternal mortality through ASHA workers.
• Community Engagement: ASHA and Anganwadi workers bridged gaps, ensuring grassroots outreach, e.g., vaccination drives.

Challenges:

• Infrastructure Gaps: Many rural health centers lack equipment and staff, limiting effectiveness.
• Funding Issues: Inadequate budgets hamper expansion and quality care delivery.
• Regional Disparities: Uneven implementation, with poorer states like Bihar lagging behind.

Suggested Reforms:

• Increase Funding: Allocate more central funds to strengthen infrastructure and staffing.
• Training Programs: Enhance skills of ASHA workers and doctors for better service delivery.
• Technology Integration: Use telemedicine to reach remote areas, improving access to specialists.
• Monitoring Systems: Strengthen accountability through local health committees.

Conclusion

NRHM has significantly improved rural healthcare, reducing mortality rates and enhancing access. However, infrastructure, funding, and regional disparities limit its impact. Reforms like increased funding, training, technology, and monitoring can enhance outreach, ensuring equitable healthcare for all rural communities.

Q14. Examine the constitutional provisions for the appointment of the Governor. How do they impact Centre-State relations, and what reforms are needed to ensure impartiality? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Governor, a key constitutional figure, acts as the link between the Centre and States. The constitutional provisions for their appointment influence Centre-State relations, often sparking debates about impartiality.

Body

Constitutional Provisions:

• Article 155: The President appoints the Governor, typically on the advice of the Central government.
• Article 156: Governors serve at the President’s pleasure, with no fixed tenure, allowing removal by the Centre.
• Qualifications: No specific criteria, leading to political appointments, often of ruling party loyalists.

Impact on Centre-State Relations:

• Central Influence: Governors, like in the 2015 Delhi crisis, have acted as Central agents, causing tensions with State governments.
• Political Bias: Alleged favoritism, e.g., Karnataka’s 2018 government formation, undermines State autonomy.
• Conflict Resolution: Governors can mediate disputes, but bias disrupts cooperative federalism.

Reforms for Impartiality:

• Consultative Appointment: Involve State governments and a neutral panel in selections.
• Fixed Tenure: Introduce a fixed term to reduce arbitrary removals.
• Clear Guidelines: Define qualifications to ensure competent, impartial Governors.

Conclusion

The Governor’s appointment by the Centre often strains Centre-State relations due to perceived bias. While intended to ensure coordination, the system risks undermining federalism. Reforms like consultative appointments, fixed tenures, and clear criteria can ensure impartiality, fostering trust and strengthening cooperative federalism.

Q15. Discuss the role of India in the G20 forum in addressing global economic challenges. How can India leverage this platform to promote sustainable development? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

India, a key G20 member, plays a vital role in addressing global economic challenges through collaborative policy-making. As a leader of the Global South, India leverages the G20 to promote sustainable development, balancing growth and environmental concerns.

Body

Role in Addressing Economic Challenges:

• Global Cooperation: India advocates for fair trade and financial reforms, e.g., pushing for IMF quota reforms in 2023.
• Economic Stability: Promotes policies for inclusive growth, supporting small economies during crises like the 2008 financial meltdown.
• Climate Finance: Urges developed nations to fund climate action, aiding vulnerable countries like Bangladesh.

Leveraging G20 for Sustainable Development:

• Climate Leadership: Push for renewable energy and green technology, building on India’s International Solar Alliance.
• Digital Innovation: Promote digital solutions for sustainable agriculture, e.g., India’s e-NAM platform, to enhance food security.
• Global South Advocacy: Represent developing nations’ interests, ensuring equitable access to resources and technology.
• Policy Frameworks: Advocate for sustainable economic policies, like green bonds, to fund eco-friendly projects.

Conclusion

India’s G20 role strengthens global economic stability through cooperation and advocacy for the Global South. By promoting climate finance, digital innovation, and equitable policies, India can leverage the G20 to drive sustainable development, ensuring inclusive growth and environmental protection worldwide.

Q16. Analyze the challenges in implementing the Swachh Bharat Mission in urban areas. Suggest measures to achieve sustainable sanitation outcomes. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), launched in 2014, aims to make India clean and open defecation-free by improving sanitation. While it has made progress, implementing SBM in urban areas faces significant challenges, requiring measures for sustainable outcomes.

Body

Challenges in Implementation:

• Inadequate Infrastructure: Many urban areas lack sufficient public toilets and waste processing units, e.g., only 60% of urban waste is ​processed.
• Population Density: High urban populations strain sanitation systems, leading to issues like clogged drains in cities like Mumbai.
• Behavioral Resistance: Lack of awareness and poor civic habits hinder sustained cleanliness, especially in slums.
• Funding Gaps: Limited budgets for maintenance and upgrades affect long-term sanitation goals.

Measures for Sustainable Sanitation:

• Strengthen Infrastructure: Build more public toilets and waste treatment plants with modern technology.
• Public Awareness: Run campaigns to promote civic responsibility, targeting urban youth and communities.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage private sector investment for sustainable waste management, like in Indore’s model.
• Regular Monitoring: Set up local committees to ensure maintenance and accountability in sanitation projects.

Conclusion

SBM has improved urban sanitation but faces challenges like infrastructure gaps and behavioral issues. By enhancing facilities, raising awareness, leveraging partnerships, and ensuring monitoring, sustainable sanitation can be achieved, making urban India cleaner and healthier.

Q17. Critically examine the role of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in addressing human rights violations. How can its autonomy and effectiveness be enhanced? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, protects and promotes human rights in India. While it plays a key role in addressing violations, its effectiveness is limited by structural constraints.

Body

Role of NHRC:

• Investigating Violations: Probes cases like custodial deaths and police excesses, e.g., the 2020 Hathras case inquiry.
• Policy Recommendations: Suggests reforms to improve human rights, such as prison reforms in 2018.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educates citizens about rights, strengthening grassroots human rights culture.

Limitations:

• Limited Powers: NHRC’s recommendations are advisory, lacking enforcement authority.
• Government Influence: Appointment of members by the government raises concerns about impartiality.
• Resource Constraints: Inadequate funding and staffing limit timely case resolution.

Measures to Enhance Autonomy and Effectiveness:

• Binding Powers: Grant NHRC authority to enforce recommendations, like a court.
• Independent Appointments: Form a neutral selection panel for NHRC members to ensure impartiality.
• Increased Resources: Allocate more funds and staff to handle growing caseloads efficiently.
• State Coordination: Strengthen ties with State Human Rights Commissions for better outreach.

Conclusion

The NHRC is vital in addressing human rights violations but is hampered by limited powers and resources. Enhancing its autonomy through binding powers, independent appointments, and better resources can strengthen its effectiveness, ensuring robust protection of human rights.

Q18. "Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach." Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction

Development and welfare schemes for vulnerable groups aim to reduce inequality, but some argue they are discriminatory by favoring specific sections. While they target marginalized communities, their intent is inclusion, not exclusion, making the statement partially valid.

Body

Reasons Supporting Discriminatory Nature:

• Targeted Benefits: Schemes like MGNREGA or PM Awas Yojana prioritize specific groups (BPL, SC/ST), potentially sidelining others.
• Resource Allocation: Limited resources may exclude deserving non-target groups, creating perceptions of unfairness.
• Implementation Bias: Corruption or favoritism in beneficiary selection, e.g., in ration card distribution, can reinforce disparities.

Reasons Against Discriminatory Nature:

• Affirmative Action: Schemes address historical injustices, like reservations for SC/ST, ensuring equity, not discrimination.
• Social Inclusion: Programs like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao uplift marginalized groups without harming others.
• Universal Goals: Many schemes, like Ayushman Bharat, aim for inclusive development, benefiting all indirectly.

Balancing Perspective:

• Transparent Criteria: Clear eligibility norms reduce perceptions of unfairness.
• Inclusive Design: Broaden schemes to cover more groups without diluting focus.

Conclusion

Welfare schemes for the vulnerable are not inherently discriminatory; they aim to correct inequalities. However, selective targeting and implementation flaws can create such perceptions. Transparent criteria, inclusive design, and fair execution can ensure these schemes promote equity without being seen as discriminatory, fostering inclusive development.

Q19. Evaluate India’s engagement with the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations. How does it contribute to India’s global image and influence? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

India is a leading contributor to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO), providing troops, police, and expertise since the 1950s. Its active role enhances its global image as a responsible power and boosts its international influence.

Body

India’s Engagement:

• Troop Contribution: India has sent over 250,000 personnel to 49 missions, currently deploying 5,000 troops in South Sudan and Congo.
• Diverse Roles: Provides medical units, engineers, and female peacekeepers, e.g., all-women police unit in Liberia (2007).
• Training Support: Runs peacekeeping training centers, sharing expertise with other nations.

Contribution to Global Image and Influence:

• Soft Power: India’s commitment to peace, as seen in Congo’s stabilization, enhances its reputation as a peace advocate.
• Global South Leadership: Represents developing nations’ interests, strengthening ties with African and Asian countries.
• Security Council Bid: Active participation supports India’s case for a permanent UNSC seat, amplifying its influence.

Challenges:

• Risk to Troops: High casualty rates, with over 170 Indian peacekeepers lost, raise concerns.
• Resource Strain: Deployment costs stretch military resources.

Way Forward:

• Enhanced Training: Strengthen specialized training for complex missions.
• Global Advocacy: Push for UN reforms to recognize India’s contributions.\

Conclusion

India’s robust engagement with UNPKO showcases its commitment to global peace, boosting its image as a responsible power. Continued participation, with better training and advocacy, can further enhance India’s global influence and leadership.

Q20. Discuss the challenges in implementing the National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, 2015. Suggest measures to align it with India’s economic goals. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction

The National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, 2015, aims to train 400 million people by 2022, fostering employability and economic growth. Despite progress, implementation challenges hinder alignment with India’s economic goals.

Body

Challenges in Implementation:

• Skill Mismatch: Training programs often fail to meet industry needs, e.g., IT sector demands advanced digital skills.
• Low Participation: Limited awareness and stigma around vocational training reduce enrollment, especially in rural areas.
• Funding Shortages: Inadequate budgets limit training centers and quality, with only 10% of funds utilized effectively.
• Weak Monitoring: Lack of oversight leads to poor training quality and certification fraud.

Measures to Align with Economic Goals:

• Industry Collaboration: Partner with industries to design demand-driven courses, like IT skills for tech hubs.
• Awareness Campaigns: Promote skilling through media and schools to attract youth, especially in rural areas.
• Increased Funding: Allocate more funds to modernize training centers and hire skilled trainers.
• Robust Monitoring: Set up digital platforms to track training quality and outcomes, ensuring accountability.
• Entrepreneurship Support: Provide loans and mentorship for startups, aligning with ‘Make in India’.

Conclusion

The 2015 Skill Development Policy is vital for economic growth but faces challenges like skill mismatch and funding gaps. By aligning training with industry needs, increasing awareness, funding, and monitoring, India can create a skilled workforce, driving economic goals like self-reliance and global competitiveness.