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

Section 'B'

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

A.V. Dicey, a British jurist, laid the foundation of Administrative Law in the late 19th century. He was a strong proponent of the rule of law and was skeptical about the growth of administrative law. According to Dicey, administrative law was antithetical to the rule of law. However, the journey of administrative law has moved much beyond Dicey's perspective.
In the modern era, the role of the state has expanded, and with it, the need for a separate body of law to regulate the functioning of administrative agencies and protect the rights of citizens has become even more crucial. Administrative law has evolved to balance the power of administrative agencies and ensure that they act within the limits prescribed by the law. It has moved from being an antagonist of the rule of law to an essential supplement to it. The growth of administrative law has been necessitated by the increasing complexity of modern society and the need for specialized agencies to deal with specific issues. Today, administrative law encompasses a wide range of principles, including natural justice, fairness, and reasonableness, which have become integral to ensuring the rule of law in contemporary times.

(b) Edward Gibbon, the author of Decline anti Fall of the Roman Empire remarked : “Corruption, the most infallible symptom of Constitutional liberty.” Critically examine this Statement.    (10 Marks)

Edward Gibbon's statement implies that corruption is an inevitable consequence of constitutional liberty. While it is true that constitutional liberty creates a system where power is decentralized and distributed among various institutions, this does not necessarily lead to corruption. Corruption arises from the abuse of power and lack of accountability, which can exist in any political system, whether it is based on constitutional liberty or not.
In fact, constitutional liberty can be seen as a safeguard against corruption. By providing checks and balances, a constitution can limit the concentration of power and make it difficult for individuals or groups to abuse their authority for personal gain. Furthermore, constitutional liberties often include provisions for transparency and accountability, which can help expose and deter corruption. However, the effectiveness of these safeguards depends on the implementation and enforcement of the constitutional provisions.

(c) To what extent has e-governance made the administrative system more citizen-oriented ? Can it (e-governance) be made more participative ?    (10 Marks)

E-governance has significantly transformed the administrative system by making it more citizen-oriented. It has simplified processes, reduced paperwork, and made public services more accessible to citizens. Some of the ways in which e-governance has made administration more citizen-centric include:

• Enhanced access to information: E-governance has made it easier for citizens to access information about government policies, programs, and services through websites and mobile applications.
• Improved service delivery: E-governance has streamlined service delivery by enabling online applications, payments, and tracking of service requests, making it more convenient for citizens.
• Greater transparency and accountability: E-governance has increased transparency by providing real-time information about the status of government projects and the utilization of public funds.
• Increased citizen participation: E-governance platforms such as social media and online discussion forums have provided citizens with opportunities to share their opinions and participate in policy formulation.

However, there is still scope for making e-governance more participative. Some suggestions to achieve this include:

• Expanding digital literacy and infrastructure: To ensure that all citizens can participate in e-governance initiatives, it is essential to bridge the digital divide by improving digital literacy and access to the internet, especially in rural and marginalized areas.
• Encouraging citizen feedback and engagement: Governments should actively seek citizen feedback on e-governance initiatives and provide mechanisms for citizens to report issues and suggest improvements.
• Strengthening online grievance redressal mechanisms: E-governance platforms should have robust grievance redressal systems to address citizens' concerns and complaints effectively and in a timely manner.

(d) “The issue of development of women is closely related to the issue of women in development." How can women become equal partners in the process of socio-economic development ? (10 Marks)

Women can become equal partners in the process of socio-economic development by addressing the various barriers that hinder their equal participation and ensuring equal opportunities in education, healthcare, employment, decision-making, and other aspects of societal development. The following measures can be taken to promote gender equality in the context of socio-economic development:

• Education: Ensuring equal access to quality education for girls and boys is crucial for bridging the gender gap in socio-economic development. This can be achieved by improving enrolment rates, reducing dropout rates, and providing gender-sensitive learning environments. For instance, the Government of India's flagship program 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' focuses on improving the girl child's welfare by addressing issues related to their education and health.
• Skill development and vocational training: Providing skill development and vocational training opportunities for women can help them become economically independent and contribute to the nation's development. For example, the 'National Rural Livelihood Mission' promotes skill development and placement of rural women in various sectors.
• Access to healthcare: Ensuring equal access to healthcare facilities and services for women is essential for their overall well-being and socio-economic development. This includes improving maternal and child health, family planning services, and addressing gender-specific health issues.
• Economic opportunities and employment: Women need to be provided with equal opportunities in the labor market to ensure their economic independence and contribution to socio-economic development. This includes promoting women's entrepreneurship, providing credit facilities, and implementing gender-responsive policies in the workplace. For example, the 'Mahila E-Haat' initiative in India aims to provide a platform for women entrepreneurs to market their products online.
• Legal and social reforms: Gender discrimination and violence against women need to be addressed through legal and social reforms to ensure their equal participation in socio-economic development. This includes enacting laws that protect women's rights, such as the 'Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act' and the 'Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act' in India.
• Political representation and decision-making: Increasing women's representation in political and decision-making positions can help ensure that their interests and concerns are taken into account in policy-making and development processes. For example, the '73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments' in India mandate reservation for women in local governance bodies, enabling them to participate in decision-making processes at the grassroots level.
• Gender-responsive budgeting: Allocating adequate resources for gender-specific programs and policies can help address the specific needs of women and promote their socio-economic development. This includes incorporating gender perspectives in budget planning and implementation processes to ensure that public resources are utilized effectively for gender equality.
• Social awareness and sensitization: Promoting gender sensitization and awareness among the general public can help change societal attitudes and norms that perpetuate gender inequality. This can be achieved through advocacy campaigns, media engagement, and community mobilization activities.

In conclusion, women can become equal partners in the process of socio-economic development by addressing the existing gender disparities and ensuring equal opportunities in various aspects of societal development. This requires a multi-pronged approach involving the government, civil society organizations, and the private sector to create an enabling environment for gender equality and women's empowerment.

(e) "The process of administrative development is generally slower than the process of socto-economic development." How can the speed of administrative development be made faster ? (10 Marks)

The speed of administrative development can be made faster by adopting various measures, such as:

• Policy Reforms: The government should introduce policy reforms to make the administrative system more efficient and responsive to the socio-economic needs of the country. This may include decentralization of power, simplification of rules and procedures, and the adoption of e-governance and digital technologies.
  Example: In India, the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments were introduced to decentralize power and promote local governance, thereby strengthening the administrative system at the grassroots level.
• Capacity Building: Enhancing the capacity of administrative personnel through regular training and skill development programs can improve their efficiency and effectiveness in delivering public services.
  Example: In India, the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) and the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) provide training to civil servants to improve their administrative capabilities.
• Performance Evaluation and Accountability: Establishing a robust performance evaluation system and ensuring accountability of the administrative machinery can make it more result-oriented and responsive to the needs of the society.
  Example: The Performance Management Division (PMD) in the Indian Government's Cabinet Secretariat evaluates the performance of various government departments and ministries.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Encouraging public-private partnerships can bring in the much-needed efficiency, expertise, and resources from the private sector to improve the administrative system.
  Example: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is a successful example of public-private partnership in India that has led to the efficient administration and management of the metro rail system in Delhi.
• Transparency and Citizen Participation: Ensuring transparency in the functioning of the administration and encouraging citizen participation can lead to better decision-making and improved service delivery.
  Example: The Right to Information (RTI) Act in India has enabled citizens to access information about government functioning, thereby improving transparency and accountability in the administrative system.
• Use of Technology: Adopting advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics can help in streamlining administrative processes, improving decision-making, and speeding up service delivery.
  Example: India's e-governance initiative, the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP), aims to make government services accessible to citizens through electronic means, thereby improving administrative efficiency.
• Interdepartmental Coordination: Improved coordination and communication among various government departments can help in the smooth functioning of the administrative system and faster implementation of policies and programs.
  Example: The Government of India has set up the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) to facilitate inter-ministerial coordination and ensure timely implementation of government policies.

In conclusion, speeding up administrative development is crucial for the overall socio-economic development of a country. By implementing the above-mentioned measures, administrative systems can be made more efficient, responsive, and effective in meeting the needs of the society.

Q.6.(a) In order to be development-oriented, bureaucracies need to be innovative, flexible, citizen-centric und result-oriented, but they are slow in imbibing these virtues in a democratic system. Do we need to go beyond the traditional models of bureaucracy and create alternative structures? Elaborate.    (20 Marks)

Yes, we need to go beyond the traditional models of bureaucracy and create alternative structures. The traditional models of bureaucracy, characterized by hierarchical structures, rigid rules, and procedures, tend to be slow, unresponsive to change, and often disconnected from the citizens they are meant to serve. In the context of development-oriented administration, these limitations can significantly hamper the achievement of development goals, particularly in a rapidly changing and complex world.
For instance, decentralization and devolution of power can empower local governments and communities to make decisions that directly impact their lives. This approach can lead to more innovative, flexible, and citizen-centric governance, as local actors are more in tune with the issues and needs of their communities. Examples of successful decentralization initiatives can be seen in Kerala's People's Plan Campaign and the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments in India, which have empowered local governments and led to better governance outcomes.
Another alternative structure could be the adoption of network governance, which involves collaboration between various public, private, and civil society actors to achieve development goals. This model promotes flexibility, innovation, and responsiveness, as it allows for the pooling of resources and expertise from different sectors. A good example of network governance in action is the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), a public-private partnership initiative aimed at improving urban infrastructure and service delivery in Indian cities.
Furthermore, embracing e-governance and digital technologies can significantly enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of bureaucracies. The use of technology can help streamline processes, reduce red tape, and improve the delivery of public services. Examples of successful e-governance initiatives include the Aadhaar biometric identification system, which has helped improve the targeting and delivery of social welfare programs in India, and Bhoomi, an online land record management system in Karnataka that has improved land administration and reduced corruption.
Finally, engaging citizens in the decision-making process is crucial for making bureaucracies more development-oriented. Citizen-centric governance can be promoted through participatory planning, social audits, and public consultations, among other mechanisms. One example of citizen engagement in action is the participatory budgeting exercise in Porto Alegre, Brazil, where citizens have a direct say in the allocation of public resources.
In conclusion, to create development-oriented bureaucracies, it is essential to move beyond traditional models and explore alternative structures that prioritize innovation, flexibility, citizen-centricity, and result-orientation. Decentralization, network governance, e-governance, and citizen engagement are some of the approaches that can help achieve this transformation, as demonstrated by various examples in the UPSC Geography optional syllabus. By adopting these alternative structures, bureaucracies can become more effective in promoting sustainable and inclusive development in a democratic system.

(b) “Administrative values have no value unless they are valued by all Stakeholders of the governance system." Comment.    (15 Marks)

The statement emphasizes the importance of inclusive, participatory governance systems in which all stakeholders have a say in shaping administrative values. Administrative values refer to the principles, norms, and practices that guide the functioning of a country's bureaucracy and governance. These values are essential for ensuring that governance is efficient, effective, and responsive to the needs of the people.
Inclusive governance requires that all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, civil society, and citizens, have a say in shaping administrative values. This ensures that governance systems are democratic and that decision-making processes are responsive to the needs of all sections of society. Inclusivity ensures that all stakeholders feel a sense of ownership in the governance process, leading to more effective implementation of policies and development initiatives.
For example, in the context of urban planning and development, inclusive governance would involve the active participation of all stakeholders, including local communities, private developers, and government authorities, in shaping the policies and regulations governing urban development. This would ensure that the needs of all sections of society are taken into account, leading to more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive cities.
Another example can be taken from the field of environmental governance. Inclusive decision-making processes involving local communities, environmental activists, businesses, and government authorities can help shape policies and regulations that protect the environment while also promoting economic development. This can lead to more sustainable development as the needs of all stakeholders are taken into consideration.
However, it is important to recognize that achieving inclusive governance can be challenging, particularly in contexts characterized by high levels of inequality, social exclusion, and political polarization. In such contexts, certain stakeholders may have more power and influence than others, leading to an imbalance in the shaping of administrative values. This can result in governance systems that are less responsive to the needs of marginalized sections of society, leading to further inequality and social exclusion.
In conclusion, the statement highlights the importance of inclusive governance systems in which all stakeholders have a say in shaping administrative values. This ensures that governance is democratic, responsive, and effective in addressing the needs of all sections of society. 

(c) Lateral entry is an antidote to the complacency in civil service." Discuss.    (15 Marks)

Lateral entry refers to the process of inducting private sector professionals and subject matter experts directly into middle and senior positions within the civil services. This practice has been seen as an antidote to the complacency in civil service, as it brings in fresh perspectives, ideas, and expertise from outside the traditional bureaucracy. 

Benefits of Lateral Entry in Civil Service:

• Diverse perspectives and expertise: Lateral entrants bring in valuable skills, knowledge, and experience from their professional backgrounds, which can help in better decision-making and policy formulation. In the context of UPSC Geography optional, for instance, lateral entrants with expertise in urban planning or environmental management can contribute significantly to planning and executing sustainable development projects.
• Promotes innovation and adaptability: Lateral entrants also bring in fresh ideas and approaches to problem-solving, cutting through bureaucratic red tape, and promoting innovation in governance. They are more adaptive to changes and can help the civil services become more agile in responding to emerging challenges.
• Enhances efficiency and accountability: Lateral entry is expected to improve the efficiency and accountability of civil services by introducing competition and performance-based incentives. This can lead to better management of resources, streamlined processes, and higher quality of public service delivery.
• Addresses skill gaps: Lateral entry can help address the skill gaps within the civil services by bringing in specialized expertise, especially in areas like technology, finance, and infrastructure. This can lead to more informed policy-making and effective implementation of schemes and programs.

However, there are also potential drawbacks and challenges associated with lateral entry in civil services:

• Integration challenges: Lateral entrants may face challenges in integrating with the existing bureaucratic setup and adjusting to the work culture of civil services. They may also face resistance from career bureaucrats, who might view them as a threat to their career progression.
• Bypassing seniority: Lateral entry, by its nature, bypasses the traditional seniority-based promotion system in civil services. This may lead to resentment and demotivation among existing civil servants, who might feel that their experience and commitment to public service are being undervalued.
• Potential conflict of interest: Lateral entrants coming from the private sector may have prior affiliations and interests that could potentially conflict with their responsibilities as civil servants. This raises concerns about the impartiality and integrity of decision-making in governance.
• 4. Risk of politicization: Lateral entry might also be seen as a tool for political patronage, with individuals being appointed to civil service positions based on their political affiliations or loyalty, rather than merit or expertise. This could undermine the neutrality and professionalism of the civil services.

In conclusion, lateral entry can be an effective antidote to complacency in civil services, as it brings in fresh perspectives, expertise, and innovation. However, it is important to address the potential drawbacks and challenges associated with it, such as integration, bypassing seniority, conflict of interest, and politicization. A well-balanced approach, with a robust selection process and effective mechanisms to ensure accountability and transparency, can help maximize the benefits of lateral entry in civil services.

Q.7.(a) How does ethnocentrism impact development administration in achieving sustainable goals ? Argue with examples.    (20 Marks)

Ethnocentrism is the belief in the inherent superiority of one's own ethnic group or culture. It often leads to the evaluation of other cultures or ethnic groups based on the values and standards of one's own culture. In the context of development administration, ethnocentrism can have significant negative impacts on the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Impact of Ethnocentrism on Development Administration:

• Imposition of inappropriate policies and programs: Ethnocentrism can lead to the implementation of policies and programs that are based on the values and experiences of the dominant or donor culture, without taking into account the needs, values and priorities of the local communities. For example, the Green Revolution in India was largely based on the Western model of intensive agriculture, which led to increased dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, depletion of water resources, and social and environmental problems. This approach may not have been the most appropriate for the diverse agro-ecological and socio-economic conditions in India, and may have hindered the achievement of sustainable agricultural development.
• Ignorance of indigenous knowledge and practices: Ethnocentric attitudes can lead to the neglect or dismissal of indigenous knowledge and practices that have evolved over generations and are well-suited to local conditions. For example, traditional water management systems in arid regions of Africa and Asia have been replaced by modern, centralized water supply systems, which have often proven to be less effective and sustainable. By ignoring local knowledge, development interventions may not only fail to achieve their objectives but can also contribute to the erosion of cultural diversity and the loss of valuable resources for future generations.
• Lack of cultural sensitivity and participation: Ethnocentrism can also result in the lack of cultural sensitivity and participation in development projects, leading to feelings of alienation and resentment among local communities. For example, family planning programs that have been implemented without adequate attention to local cultural and religious beliefs have met with resistance and low adoption rates in many developing countries. To achieve sustainable development goals, it is essential to involve local communities in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of development interventions, and to respect their cultural values and aspirations.
• Reinforcement of stereotypes and power imbalances: Ethnocentric representations of development issues can contribute to the reinforcement of stereotypes and power imbalances between the developed and developing countries. This can undermine the spirit of partnership and mutual learning that is necessary for achieving the SDGs. For example, the portrayal of Africa as a continent of poverty, disease, and conflict can perpetuate negative stereotypes and hinder the recognition of the diverse and innovative development initiatives that are taking place on the continent. To promote a more balanced and nuanced understanding of global development challenges, it is important to challenge ethnocentric biases and to appreciate the strengths and contributions of different cultures and societies.

In conclusion, ethnocentrism can have significant negative impacts on development administration and the achievement of sustainable development goals. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to adopt a more inclusive, participatory, and culturally sensitive approach to development, recognizing the value of diversity and the importance of local knowledge and perspectives. By doing so, we can work together towards a more equitable and sustainable global future.

(b) “Monetary policy of a country can help or hinder its development process.” Discuss.    (15 Marks)

Monetary policy refers to the actions taken by a country's central bank to control the money supply, interest rates, and other financial instruments in order to achieve macroeconomic goals such as stable prices, full employment, and economic growth. Monetary policy can have a significant impact on a country's development process, as it influences key economic variables such as inflation, exchange rates, and credit availability. In this answer, we will discuss how monetary policy can help or hinder a country's development process, with examples from India, Brazil, and Japan.

• Inflation targeting: One of the primary objectives of monetary policy is to maintain price stability, which is crucial for long-term growth and development. High inflation erodes the purchasing power of money, discourages saving and investment, and can lead to economic instability. By using monetary policy tools such as open market operations, reserve requirements, and interest rate adjustments, central banks can control the money supply and inflation in the economy. For example, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) adopted an inflation targeting framework in 2016, aiming to keep inflation within a range of 4% +/- 2% over the medium term. This has helped stabilize inflation in India and has contributed to a more favorable environment for investment and growth.
• Exchange rate management: Monetary policy can also influence exchange rates, which play a critical role in a country's trade balance and overall economic growth. A competitive exchange rate can help promote exports, leading to increased foreign exchange earnings and economic growth. Alternatively, a strong currency can help control inflation by making imported goods cheaper. For example, Brazil's central bank, Banco Central do Brasil, has intervened in the foreign exchange market to maintain a competitive exchange rate, which has helped boost the country's exports, especially in the commodities sector.
• Credit availability and interest rates: Monetary policy can influence the availability of credit in the economy, which is essential for investment and growth. By lowering interest rates, central banks can encourage borrowing and investment, leading to higher economic growth. Conversely, raising interest rates can help control inflation and prevent excessive credit growth, which can lead to economic instability. For example, in the early 2000s, Japan's central bank, the Bank of Japan, implemented a policy of low-interest rates and quantitative easing to stimulate the economy and fight deflation. This policy helped increase credit availability in the economy, contributing to Japan's economic recovery.
  However, monetary policy can also hinder a country's development process in certain circumstances:
• Inappropriate policy choices: If a central bank implements a monetary policy that is not suitable for the country's economic conditions, it can have negative consequences for growth and development. For example, if a central bank raises interest rates too aggressively, it can lead to a credit crunch, reduced investment, and slower economic growth. Alternatively, keeping interest rates too low for an extended period can lead to excessive credit growth, asset price bubbles, and financial instability.
• Policy transmission issues: Monetary policy can only be effective in promoting growth and development if the policy changes are transmitted effectively through the financial system to the real economy. In some cases, this transmission may be weak or delayed due to factors such as an underdeveloped financial system, high levels of non-performing loans, or structural rigidities in the economy. In such cases, monetary policy may not be able to fully support the country's development process.
• Limitations of monetary policy: While monetary policy can play a crucial role in managing inflation, exchange rates, and credit availability, it is not a panacea for all economic problems. Structural issues such as infrastructure bottlenecks, labor market rigidities, and low productivity growth must also be addressed through appropriate fiscal and structural policies to ensure sustainable long-term growth and development.

In conclusion, monetary policy can play a vital role in supporting a country's development process by maintaining price stability, managing exchange rates, and ensuring credit availability. However, it is essential for central banks to implement appropriate policy choices and ensure effective transmission of policy changes to the real economy. Moreover, monetary policy alone cannot ensure growth and development; it must be complemented by sound fiscal and structural policies.

(c) "Sound Performance Auditing is impossible without systematic Performance Outcome Budgeting." Explain the relationship between the two.    (15 Marks)

Performance Outcome Budgeting (POB) is a management tool that links the allocation of resources to the achievement of measurable goals and outcomes. It involves setting performance targets, monitoring progress, evaluating results, and using this information to inform future resource allocation decisions. Sound Performance Auditing (SPA) is an independent assessment of the efficiency, effectiveness, and economy of an organization's operations in achieving its objectives, and it is based on the outcomes achieved with the resources allocated.
The relationship between Performance Outcome Budgeting and Sound Performance Auditing is that one cannot exist without the other. Here's why:

• Setting performance targets: POB requires organizations to set clear, measurable, and achievable performance targets for their programs and services. These targets serve as the basis for assessing the performance of the organization, which is the primary goal of SPA. Without clearly defined targets, it would be difficult for auditors to assess whether an organization is achieving its objectives in a cost-effective manner.
• Monitoring progress: POB requires organizations to regularly monitor and report on their progress towards achieving their performance targets. This monitoring process provides the necessary data for SPA to assess the organization's performance. Without regular monitoring and reporting, auditors would lack the necessary information to determine whether an organization is on track to achieve its objectives.
• Evaluating results: POB involves evaluating the results achieved by an organization against its performance targets. This evaluation process is critical for SPA, as it allows auditors to assess the effectiveness of an organization's programs and services. Without a systematic evaluation process, it would be difficult for auditors to determine the extent to which an organization is achieving its objectives.
• Informing future resource allocation decisions: One of the main objectives of POB is to use the information generated through monitoring and evaluation to inform future resource allocation decisions. This ensures that resources are allocated to those programs and services that are producing the best results. SPA plays a crucial role in this process, as it provides an independent assessment of the organization's performance, which can be used to inform future resource allocation decisions.
  For example, let's consider a government department responsible for implementing a rural development program aimed at improving the standard of living in rural areas through various initiatives like providing better infrastructure, increasing agricultural productivity, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. In this case, POB would involve setting clear performance targets for each of these initiatives, regularly monitoring the progress, evaluating the results, and using this information to allocate resources for the next financial year. SPA, on the other hand, would involve an independent assessment of the department's performance in achieving these targets with the allocated resources. Without a systematic POB process in place, it would be difficult for the auditors to evaluate the department's performance and provide recommendations for improvement.

In conclusion, Sound Performance Auditing is impossible without systematic Performance Outcome Budgeting, as the latter provides the necessary framework for setting performance targets, monitoring progress, evaluating results, and informing future resource allocation decisions. Both these management tools are essential for ensuring that organizations are achieving their objectives in the most efficient, effective, and economical manner.

Q.8.(a) "Administrative systems across the world can be understood only in their respective historical and social contexts." Explain the statement giving examples.    (20 Marks)

The statement emphasizes the importance of understanding administrative systems within their unique historical and social contexts. Administrative systems are the mechanisms and structures through which governments manage their territories, resources, and citizens. They are not uniform across the world and have evolved in various ways due to the diverse historical and social factors that have shaped different societies.
To better explain this statement, let's consider some examples:

• United States: The administrative system in the United States is based on federalism, which is a direct result of its historical context. The founding fathers of the United States wanted to create a system that would prevent the concentration of power in a single entity, as they had experienced under British colonial rule. Therefore, they designed a system that divided power between the national government and state governments. The social context of the time, with thirteen original states having diverse cultures, economic systems, and political interests, further reinforced the need for a federal administrative structure.
• China: The administrative system in China has been heavily influenced by its historical and social context. The traditional Chinese administrative system was based on Confucian principles, which emphasized meritocracy, hierarchy, and stability. This system has evolved over time, influenced by various ruling dynasties, and today, China has a unique administrative system that combines elements of its historical Confucian bureaucracy with modern socialist governance under the Chinese Communist Party. The social context of China, with its large population and vast territory, has also influenced the development of its administrative system, necessitating strong central control and coordination.
• India: The Indian administrative system is rooted in its colonial past, as it inherited the British colonial administrative structure. The Indian Civil Service, which is the backbone of the Indian administration, was initially established by the British to govern the colony. After gaining independence, India adopted a federal administrative structure, taking into account its diverse social context, with multiple linguistic, religious, and cultural groups spread across a vast territory. This has led to a complex and multi-layered administrative system in India, with powers shared between the central government and the states.
• Nigeria: The Nigerian administrative system has been shaped by its historical experience of colonialism, military rule, and democratization. During the colonial era, Nigeria was governed through indirect rule by the British, which maintained existing traditional power structures and relied on local leaders to administer the colony. This system resulted in a highly centralized administrative structure. After gaining independence, Nigeria experienced multiple military coups, which further entrenched centralization in its administrative system. However, with the return to democracy in 1999, Nigeria adopted a federal system, aimed at addressing its diverse social context, with over 250 ethnic groups and significant regional disparities.

These examples demonstrate that administrative systems are not uniform and cannot be understood in isolation from their historical and social contexts. When studying administrative systems, it is crucial to consider the unique historical experiences and social factors that have shaped each system, as this will provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of how they function and evolve.

(b) Currently, administrative training focusses more on improving efficiency than on transforming the altitudes and behaviour of civil servants. What type of training will you suggest to fill this gap ? Elaborate.    (15 Marks)

To fill the gap in administrative training that focuses more on improving efficiency than transforming attitudes and behavior of civil servants, I would suggest the following types of training:

• Soft Skills Training: Soft skills are essential for civil servants to interact effectively and harmoniously with the public, colleagues, and superiors. This training should focus on communication, teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, time management, and emotional intelligence. For example, workshops on empathetic listening and negotiation skills can help civil servants better understand the needs of the public and address them effectively.
• Ethics and Integrity Training: Civil servants must conduct themselves with the highest level of integrity and professionalism. Training on ethical principles, values, and codes of conduct can help inculcate a sense of responsibility and accountability. Case studies from the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) and other civil services can be used to illustrate the importance of ethics in decision-making and public service.
• Cultural Sensitivity Training: India is a diverse country with different cultures, religions, and languages. Civil servants must be sensitive to these differences and respect the customs and traditions of the people they serve. Training on cultural diversity and inclusion can help civil servants develop a better understanding of the diverse communities they work with and build trust among different groups.
• Leadership and Management Training: Civil servants must be effective leaders and managers to drive change and deliver results. Training on leadership styles, change management, strategic planning, and performance management can help them develop the necessary skills to lead their teams and departments effectively. Examples from successful civil service leaders and best practices from other countries can be included in this training.
• Community Engagement and Public Consultation Training: Civil servants should engage and consult with the public in their decision-making processes. Training on community engagement techniques, participatory decision-making, and public consultation can help civil servants involve the public in the development and implementation of policies and programs. For example, training on participatory rural appraisal (PRA) techniques can help civil servants better understand and address the needs of rural communities.
• Sustainable Development and Environmental Awareness Training: Civil servants should be aware of the importance of sustainable development and environmental protection in their decision-making processes. Training on sustainable development goals (SDGs), environmental policies, and impact assessment can help them integrate environmental considerations into their work. For example, training on the importance of watershed management and afforestation in the context of Indian geography can help civil servants make informed decisions on land and water resource management.
•  Digital Literacy and e-Governance Training: In the age of digitalization, civil servants must be proficient in using technology to improve service delivery and governance. Training on digital literacy, data management, and e-governance tools can help them leverage technology for better governance. For example, training on the use of GIS and remote sensing in urban planning and disaster management can help civil servants make better-informed decisions using spatial data.

In conclusion, a combination of these training types can help bridge the gap in administrative training and transform the attitudes and behavior of civil servants. By focusing on soft skills, ethics, cultural sensitivity, leadership, community engagement, sustainable development, and digital literacy, civil servants can become more effective, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the public they serve.

(c) "A public policy without the active involvement of people in its formulation, implementation anti evaluation is only a facade," How can this anomaly be confected ?    (15 Marks)

To correct this anomaly in public policy, it is essential to ensure active public participation at every stage of policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. This can be achieved through the following strategies:

• Encouraging public consultations: Public consultations should be made an integral part of the policy-making process to gather diverse perspectives, opinions, and feedback. This can be done through town hall meetings, public hearings, and interactive workshops where people can voice their concerns and contribute to policy discussions.
  For example, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in India conducted public consultations while drafting the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to address the issue of air pollution.
• Inclusive policy formulation: Policy formulation should be inclusive, taking into consideration the needs and aspirations of different social groups, especially marginalized sections of society. This will ensure that policies cater to a wide range of stakeholders and do not perpetuate existing inequalities.
  For example, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in India aims to bridge the gender and social gaps by promoting gender-neutral pedagogy and ensuring equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background.
• Decentralization and local governance: Decentralization of decision-making authority to local governments can ensure more significant public participation in policy implementation. It allows local communities to have a say in the decision-making process and makes the policy more suited to their specific needs and priorities.
  For example, the Panchayati Raj system in India empowers local self-governments (Gram Panchayats) to plan and implement development programs at the village level, ensuring active community participation.
• Social audits and participatory monitoring: Social audits and participatory monitoring mechanisms should be put in place to involve people in evaluating policy outcomes. This will not only help in identifying any gaps or shortcomings in policy implementation but also promote transparency and accountability.
  For example, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in India mandates social audits to be conducted by the Gram Sabha to ensure transparency and accountability in the implementation of the scheme.
• Capacity building and awareness programs: To ensure meaningful public participation, it is essential to build people's capacity to understand public policy issues and engage in informed decision-making. This can be done through awareness programs, training workshops, and educational initiatives.
  For example, the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) in India conducts capacity building programs for urban local bodies to strengthen their ability to address urban development challenges.

In conclusion, correcting the anomaly in public policy requires a concerted effort to involve people in every stage of the policy process. By adopting strategies such as public consultations, inclusive policy formulation, decentralization, participatory monitoring, and capacity building, public policies can better reflect the needs and aspirations of the people they are intended to serve.