UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2018: Public Administration Paper 2 (Section- B) | Public Administration Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

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

(a) "The 'enablers’ and 'facilitators' are yet to replace the 'inspectors' and 'controllers' in the civil service in India.” Do you agree ? Justify.    (10 Marks)

Yes, I agree that the 'enablers' and 'facilitators' are yet to replace the 'inspectors' and 'controllers' in the civil service in India. The civil service system in India has been largely characterized by a bureaucratic approach with a focus on control and inspection. However, in recent times, there has been a growing realization of the need for a more proactive and facilitative approach in governance. The following points justify this statement:

• Legacy of the colonial era: The Indian civil service system has its roots in the British colonial administration, which focused on maintaining law and order and revenue collection. This has led to the persistence of the 'inspectors' and 'controllers' mindset among civil servants even after independence.
• Resistance to change: Many civil servants in India are resistant to change and prefer to continue with the traditional mode of functioning. They are hesitant to adopt new ideas and technologies, which could make governance more efficient and people-centric.
• Lack of capacity building: The civil service training in India has not evolved significantly over time. There is a need for continuous capacity building and skill development of civil servants to enable them to become effective facilitators of development.
• Inadequate performance-based incentives: The performance appraisal system in the Indian civil service is not robust enough to encourage civil servants to become enablers and facilitators. There is a need for a more transparent and objective performance evaluation system that rewards innovation, efficiency, and citizen-centric governance.
• Excessive centralization: The decision-making process in the Indian civil service is highly centralized, which has led to a culture of hierarchy and control. Decentralization of authority and empowering the lower levels of bureaucracy can help in promoting the role of civil servants as enablers and facilitators.

Some examples of the need for a shift in the role of civil servants in India include:

• E-governance initiatives: The successful implementation of e-governance initiatives like the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP), Aadhaar, and the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system require civil servants to act as enablers and facilitators, encouraging the adoption of technology and ensuring seamless service delivery to citizens.
• Public-private partnerships (PPPs): With increasing emphasis on PPPs in infrastructure development, civil servants need to play the role of facilitators in creating an enabling environment for private sector participation and ensuring that projects are implemented efficiently.
• Sustainable development: In the context of sustainable development, civil servants must act as facilitators and enablers, promoting the integration of environmental, social, and economic concerns in policy-making and implementation.

To conclude, while there has been some progress in changing the mindset of civil servants in India, a lot more needs to be done to transform them from 'inspectors' and 'controllers' to 'enablers' and 'facilitators' for effective governance and sustainable development. This would require changes in the recruitment, training, and performance evaluation systems, as well as a shift in the organizational culture of the civil service.

(b) "Financial inclusion needs legal backing but it also requires increasing awareness for it to become a reality." Discuss.    (10 Marks)

Financial inclusion is the process of ensuring access to financial services and timely, adequate credit at affordable costs to vulnerable groups of society, such as the weaker sections and low-income groups. It is an essential element for achieving inclusive growth, reducing poverty, and promoting overall socio-economic development. It is important to note that financial inclusion is not just about opening bank accounts or extending credit. It involves a wide range of financial services, including savings, insurance, pensions, and remittances.
Legal backing and increasing awareness are two crucial aspects that can help in achieving financial inclusion. In this context, let us discuss how both these aspects are interlinked and significant in promoting financial inclusion.

Legal Backing:

• Regulatory Framework: A sound legal and regulatory framework is essential for the smooth functioning of the financial sector. It provides a sense of security to the users and providers of financial services. A strong legal framework can help to protect the rights of consumers, ensure transparency, and promote competition among financial service providers. For instance, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken several steps to promote financial inclusion, such as simplifying KYC norms, allowing non-bank entities to set up payment banks, and launching the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.
• Consumer Protection: Legal backing is vital to safeguard the interests of consumers in the financial sector. It can help to address issues like mis-selling of financial products, frauds, and high charges. The RBI has established the Banking Ombudsman Scheme to address customer complaints against banks. Moreover, the government has launched the Financial Redressal Agency (FRA) to address consumer grievances in the financial sector.

Incentivizing Financial Inclusion: The government can provide legal backing to financial inclusion by introducing incentives for banks and other financial institutions to promote financial services among low-income groups. For instance, the RBI has introduced the priority sector lending norms, which mandate banks to lend a certain percentage of their total advances to the weaker sections of society.

Increasing Awareness:

• Financial Literacy: Lack of financial literacy is one of the key reasons for the low penetration of financial services in India. Increasing awareness through financial literacy programs can help people understand the importance of financial services and make informed decisions. The government and RBI have introduced various financial literacy programs like the National Strategy for Financial Education and the Financial Literacy Centres.
• Use of Technology: Technological advancements such as mobile banking, internet banking, and digital payments can play a crucial role in increasing awareness about financial services. For instance, the RBI has launched the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to promote digital transactions. The government's Digital India initiative also aims to bridge the digital divide and increase awareness about digital financial services.
• Community Participation: Community participation can play a vital role in increasing awareness about financial services. Local self-help groups, cooperatives, and non-governmental organizations can help in disseminating information about financial services and their benefits. For example, the Kudumbashree program in Kerala has successfully promoted financial inclusion among women through community participation.

In conclusion, financial inclusion can only become a reality when legal backing and increasing awareness work together. A strong legal framework is necessary to ensure the smooth functioning of the financial sector and protect the rights of consumers. At the same time, increasing awareness through financial literacy programs, use of technology, and community participation can help people understand the importance of financial services and make informed decisions. Therefore, a synergistic approach involving both legal backing and increasing awareness is essential for achieving financial inclusion in India.

(c) “Gender budgeting requires rethinking beyond H1 locations to become a powerful tool of gender mainstreaming." Discuss.     (10 Marks)

Gender budgeting can be understood as the process of analyzing and organizing government budgets to ensure gender equality and address the different needs and priorities of men and women. It involves the integration of gender perspectives in the formulation, implementation, and monitoring of budgets. In this context, the statement calls for a rethinking beyond H1 (highly urbanized) locations, to make gender budgeting a powerful tool of gender mainstreaming.

• Gender mainstreaming is the process of incorporating gender concerns and priorities in all policies, programs, and activities, with the goal of achieving gender equality. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the multiple factors and dynamics that contribute to gender inequality and the ways in which they intersect and interact.
• The focus on H1 locations in gender budgeting often stems from the fact that urban centers are considered to be the hub of economic activity and resources. However, it is essential to expand the scope of gender budgeting to rural and semi-urban areas as well, where the majority of the population resides, and the gender disparities are often more pronounced.

Some examples of how rethinking beyond H1 locations can contribute to more effective gender budgeting and gender mainstreaming are:

• Addressing the gender gap in agriculture: In many developing countries, including India, agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for rural populations, and women play a significant role in this sector. However, they often face constraints in accessing resources, credit, and technology. Gender budgeting in the agricultural sector, especially in rural areas, can help bridge this gap and empower women farmers.
• Enhancing access to education and healthcare in rural areas: Gender disparities in access to education and healthcare are often more pronounced in rural areas. Gender budgeting can be used to ensure adequate allocation of resources for improving educational and health infrastructure in these areas, targeting the specific needs of girls and women.
• Promoting women's entrepreneurship and economic empowerment in semi-urban areas: Gender budgeting can promote women's entrepreneurship and economic empowerment by ensuring that financial resources are allocated to support women-led enterprises and skill development programs, especially in semi-urban areas where economic opportunities are often limited.
• Strengthening social protection schemes for women in non-H1 locations: Gender budgeting can be used to strengthen social protection schemes, such as pensions, maternity benefits, and social assistance programs, targeting women in rural and semi-urban areas who are often more vulnerable and have limited access to formal social safety nets.
• Addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in non-H1 locations: GBV is a critical issue that affects women across urban, semi-urban, and rural areas. By adopting a more comprehensive approach towards gender budgeting, governments can allocate adequate resources to address GBV in non-H1 locations, including setting up crisis centers, legal aid services, and awareness campaigns.

In conclusion, rethinking beyond H1 locations in gender budgeting can lead to more effective gender mainstreaming, as it takes into account the diverse needs and priorities of women in different geographical contexts. By adopting a more comprehensive and inclusive approach, governments can ensure that gender equality is pursued not just in urban centers but also in rural and semi-urban areas, where the majority of the population resides.

(d) “Social audit has lent a critical edge to the implementation of programmes such as MGNREGA,” Comment.    (10 Marks)

Social audit refers to the process of reviewing and evaluating the performance and effectiveness of government schemes, projects, and policies in terms of their social, economic, and environmental impact. This process involves the participation of various stakeholders, including the local community, civil society organizations, and government officials, to ensure transparency and accountability in the implementation of these programs.
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a flagship program of the Government of India that aims to provide guaranteed employment to the rural poor by creating productive assets and infrastructure. Since its inception in 2006, social audit has played a significant role in enhancing the performance and effectiveness of MGNREGA.
Social audit for MGNREGA has brought several critical improvements to the implementation of the program:

• Transparency and Accountability: Social audit has helped in ensuring transparency and accountability by involving the local community and civil society organizations in monitoring the implementation of the program. This has led to a decrease in corruption and misuse of funds, ensuring that the benefits of the program reach the intended beneficiaries.
• Identification of Issues and Grievance Redressal: Social audits have played a crucial role in identifying various issues and problems faced by the beneficiaries during the implementation of MGNREGA. This has led to timely redressal of grievances and improvement in the overall functioning of the program.
• Increased Awareness and Participation: Social audit has created awareness among the beneficiaries about their rights and entitlements under MGNREGA. This has led to increased participation and demand for work under the program, ensuring that the benefits reach a larger section of the rural population.
• Improvement in the Quality of Work: Social audit has not only ensured better implementation of MGNREGA but has also led to improvements in the quality of work undertaken under the program. By involving the local community in the planning and execution of projects, social audit has ensured that the assets created are relevant to the needs of the community and are of better quality.
• Strengthening of Local Governance: Social audit has played a role in strengthening local governance by involving the Gram Sabha (village assembly) and other local institutions in the planning, monitoring, and implementation of MGNREGA. This has led to better coordination between different stakeholders and improved the overall effectiveness of the program.

In conclusion, social audit has indeed lent a critical edge to the implementation of MGNREGA by ensuring transparency, accountability, and community participation. This has led to better targeting of beneficiaries, timely redressal of grievances, and improved the overall effectiveness of the program. However, there is a need for further strengthening of the social audit process to address the remaining challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability of MGNREGA.

(e) "The AFSPA debate reveals that, the Endian paramilitary forces are caught between the imperatives of national security and protection of human rights." Discuss.    (10 Marks)

The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is a highly debated legislation in India, primarily due to the concerns surrounding human rights violations and its impact on national security. It has been implemented in regions facing internal unrest and insurgency, such as Jammu and Kashmir and the northeastern states, to empower the security forces in maintaining law and order. The debate around AFSPA highlights the challenges faced by the Indian paramilitary forces in striking a balance between the requirements of national security and the protection of human rights.

National Security Imperatives:

• Counter Insurgency Operations: AFSPA was enacted to enable the security forces to deal with the insurgency in various parts of the country. For instance, the law has been applied in northeastern states like Nagaland, Manipur, and Assam to counter the activities of various secessionist and insurgent groups. The paramilitary forces, with their added powers under AFSPA, can carry out operations to neutralize threats and ensure the safety and security of the citizens.
• Maintaining Law and Order: In regions affected by internal unrest, such as the militancy in Jammu and Kashmir, the presence of paramilitary forces and their ability to maintain law and order is crucial. AFSPA enables the security forces to act swiftly and decisively in such situations, ensuring that normalcy is restored as quickly as possible.
• Deterrence: The presence of paramilitary forces and their enhanced operational capabilities under AFSPA can act as a deterrent to potential insurgents and terrorists. This helps in maintaining peace and stability in the region.

Human Rights Concerns:

• Arbitrary Use of Power: One of the most significant criticisms of AFSPA is that it grants security forces sweeping powers that can be misused. Under the law, security personnel can arrest, search, and even open fire on individuals based on mere suspicion. This can lead to arbitrary arrests and harassment of innocent civilians, violating their fundamental rights.
• Immunity from Prosecution: AFSPA provides security forces with immunity from legal action for actions taken in the line of duty. This has led to concerns that such immunity could encourage human rights violations by the security personnel, as they would not be held accountable for their actions.
• Extrajudicial Killings: There have been reports of extrajudicial killings by security forces operating under AFSPA. The infamous "fake encounter" cases in Manipur and the "Machil encounter" in Jammu and Kashmir are examples of human rights violations perpetrated by security forces in the garb of counter-insurgency operations.

To strike a balance between national security and human rights, several measures can be taken. These include:

• Strengthening Accountability: Ensuring that any abuse of power is investigated and prosecuted can help in curbing human rights violations. The security forces must be held accountable for their actions, even in disturbed areas.
• Sensitizing Security Forces: Training and sensitizing the security personnel on human rights issues can help in reducing instances of human rights violations. This will help the security forces to understand their responsibility towards protecting the rights of the citizens, even in conflict situations.
• Revisiting AFSPA Provisions: The government can consider revisiting the provisions of AFSPA, making it more balanced and in line with international standards. This could involve limiting the powers of the security forces and ensuring that they are held accountable for any human rights violations.

In conclusion, the AFSPA debate underscores the challenges faced by the Indian paramilitary forces in reconciling the imperatives of national security with the protection of human rights. While the law is useful in maintaining law and order in disturbed areas, it is essential to address the concerns surrounding human rights violations. A comprehensive approach that includes strengthening accountability, sensitizing security forces, and revisiting the provisions of AFSPA can help in striking the right balance between the two competing imperatives.

Q.6.(a) “Competency mapping is important for effective allocation of responsibilities to administrators.” Do you think that a generalist, administrator can handle all issues as effectively as a specialist ? Discuss.    (20 Marks)

A generalist administrator, as the name suggests, has a broad understanding and knowledge of various subjects and domains. They are trained to adapt to various situations and are expected to handle a range of issues effectively. For instance, a generalist IAS officer might be tasked with responsibilities spanning from disaster management, public healthcare, education policies, to urban planning.

• On the other hand, a specialist has in-depth knowledge and expertise in a specific subject, making them better equipped to handle specific issues within their domain. For example, a specialist in urban planning may be able to provide better insights and solutions for a city's infrastructure and development needs compared to a generalist.
• While the generalist may have a basic understanding of coastal processes, they may not have the expertise to fully comprehend and address the complexities of coastal erosion, sedimentation, or the impacts of climate change on the coastal ecosystem. In such a case, a specialist in coastal geography would be better suited to handle these specific issues effectively.
• However, it is also essential to consider that a generalist administrator possesses skills such as adaptability, quick learning, and effective decision-making, which allows them to work effectively in diverse situations. They can also act as a bridge between specialists from different fields, integrating their inputs to devise comprehensive solutions.

In conclusion, while a generalist administrator may not handle all issues as effectively as a specialist, they bring their unique set of skills and abilities to the table. A balanced approach that combines the strengths of both generalists and specialists would be ideal for effective administration. For example, a generalist IAS officer can collaborate with specialists from various fields to address complex issues, ensuring that the best possible solutions are implemented.

(b) ‘The recommendations of various commissions on administrative reforms have not. made a radical departure from the Paul Appleby Report." Do you agree ? Give reasons.    (20 Marks)

I partially agree with the statement that the recommendations of various commissions on administrative reforms have not made a radical departure from the Paul Appleby Report. While there have been some changes and improvements in certain areas, the core principles and suggestions laid out by Paul Appleby in his report still hold relevance in the present administrative scenario.

Paul Appleby, an American expert on public administration, presented his report on Indian administration in 1953, focusing on the need for efficiency, decentralization, and responsiveness to public needs. Some of the major recommendations of the Appleby Report were:

• Improving administrative efficiency by simplifying procedures and rules, and emphasizing results rather than adherence to routine.
• Decentralization of authority and empowering lower-level officers to make decisions.
• Encouraging a proactive approach in administration to respond to public needs and demands.
• Promoting specialization within the administrative services to enhance technical expertise.
• Enhancing coordination between different departments and public agencies.

Various commissions and committees constituted after the Appleby Report, such as the Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), the Hanumantha Rao Committee, and the Hota Committee, have focused on these aspects, albeit with certain changes and additions.
For instance, the ARC (1966-1970) focused on reorganizing the central secretariat, devolution of financial authority, and improving the grievance redressal mechanism. The Hanumantha Rao Committee (1985) emphasized the need for greater decentralization, reorganization of the All India Services, and improving the performance appraisal system. The Hota Committee (2004) highlighted the need for transparency and accountability, specialization, and performance management.

While these commissions and committees have made some progress in addressing the concerns raised in the Appleby Report, there has not been a radical departure from its recommendations. For example:

• Administrative efficiency: Though some procedural simplifications have been introduced, the Indian administration is still burdened with complex rules and regulations that hinder efficiency.
• Decentralization: Despite the emphasis on decentralization, the power dynamics in the Indian administration still tilt towards the center, with state governments and local bodies lacking adequate authority to make decisions.
• Responsiveness to public needs: While there have been efforts to make the administration more responsive, bureaucratic red-tape, corruption, and a lack of accountability continue to affect public service delivery.
• Specialization: The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) still maintains its generalist nature, with many officers holding positions in diverse sectors without the required technical expertise.

In conclusion, while there have been some changes and additions to the recommendations of the Appleby Report, the core principles and concerns laid out in the report continue to be relevant in the Indian administrative context. The various commissions on administrative reforms have not made a radical departure from the Appleby Report, and further reforms are necessary to address the persistent challenges in the Indian administration.

(c) “Performance management requires identification of indicators and measures to ensure that, goats are achieved." Discuss.    (10 Marks)

Performance management is a systematic process that involves planning, monitoring, evaluating, and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization in achieving its goals. In the context of public administration, performance management plays a critical role in ensuring that government departments and agencies deliver quality services to the public in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
The statement "performance management requires identification of indicators and measures to ensure that, goats are achieved" seems to have a typographical error. We will assume that it is meant to say "goals are achieved." In this context, the statement highlights the importance of identifying appropriate indicators and measures in performance management to ensure that goals are achieved.
Indicators and measures are essential tools for performance management as they provide a quantitative basis for assessing the progress towards achieving the set goals. They help public administrators to:

• Set realistic and achievable goals: Indicators and measures enable administrators to set goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, a goal for a public health department might be to reduce the infant mortality rate by 20% within five years.
• Monitor progress: By regularly tracking the indicators and measures, administrators can monitor the progress towards the achievement of the goals. This allows them to make timely adjustments or interventions as needed. For instance, if the health department finds that the infant mortality rate is not decreasing as expected, it can investigate the reasons for this and take corrective action.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and policies: Indicators and measures can help administrators evaluate the success or failure of a particular program or policy in achieving the desired goals. For example, the health department can evaluate whether the introduction of a new vaccination program has contributed to a reduction in infant mortality rates.
• Improve transparency and accountability: By making the indicators and measures publicly available, the public can hold government departments and agencies accountable for their performance. This can lead to improved public trust in government institutions and better decision-making.
• Facilitate learning and continuous improvement: By analyzing the data gathered through indicators and measures, public administrators can identify the best practices and learn from them to improve the overall performance of the organization.
  Examples of indicators and measures in public administration include:
• The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate as an indicator of economic development.
• The Human Development Index (HDI) as a measure of overall well-being, including health, education, and income.
• The percentage of the population with access to clean drinking water as an indicator of the effectiveness of water supply programs.
• The number of patients treated per hospital bed as a measure of healthcare efficiency.

In conclusion, the identification of appropriate indicators and measures is crucial for effective performance management in public administration. They help administrators set realistic goals, monitor progress, evaluate programs and policies, improve transparency and accountability, and facilitate learning and continuous improvement.

Q.7.(a) “Rural development programmets have failed toeffectively address Lhe problems of small and marginal farmers,’" Analyse and give suggestions.    (20 Marks)

Rural development programs have been a crucial aspect of the Indian government's policy to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the rural population. However, these programs have not been entirely successful in addressing the challenges faced by small and marginal farmers. Small and marginal farmers are those who own less than 2 hectares of land, and they constitute around 86% of the total farmer population in India.

Analysis:

• Inadequate access to credit: Small and marginal farmers often face difficulties in accessing institutional credit due to lack of collateral, poor credit history, and complicated procedures. As a result, they rely on informal sources like moneylenders, who charge exorbitant interest rates, trapping them in a vicious cycle of debt.
• Lack of technology adoption: Small and marginal farmers usually lack the resources to invest in modern technology and machinery, which can improve their productivity and income. The absence of technology adoption results in low productivity and perpetuates poverty.
• Fragmented landholdings: The small size of landholdings often leads to inefficiencies in farming practices and diminishes the economic viability of farming as a profession. The fragmentation of land also hinders the adoption of modern agricultural practices, which require larger land parcels for implementation.
• Limited access to markets: Small and marginal farmers often face difficulties in accessing markets due to lack of transportation, storage facilities, and information about market prices. This results in exploitation by middlemen, who purchase their produce at low prices and sell them at higher prices in the market.
• Inadequate extension services: Extension services are critical for disseminating information on new agricultural practices, technologies, and government schemes. However, the existing extension services are inadequate, leaving small and marginal farmers without proper guidance and support to improve their farming practices.

Suggestions:

• Improve access to credit: The government should create a more inclusive financial system by simplifying procedures, reducing interest rates, and promoting financial literacy among small and marginal farmers. Additionally, the government should encourage the formation of self-help groups and farmer cooperatives to enhance the farmers' bargaining power.
• Promote technology adoption: The government should provide subsidies and financial assistance to small and marginal farmers for the adoption of modern technology and machinery. This can be done through public-private partnerships and by involving agricultural research institutes in the process.
• Consolidate landholdings: The government should promote land consolidation through land pooling, land leasing, and contract farming. This would help in increasing the efficiency of farming practices and enable small and marginal farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices.
• Improve market access: The government should invest in developing rural infrastructure, such as roads, transportation, and storage facilities, to improve market access for small and marginal farmers. Additionally, the government should promote e-marketing platforms like e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) to provide real-time price information and facilitate online trading of agricultural commodities.
• Strengthen extension services: The government should invest in strengthening the extension services by recruiting more professionals, providing training, and leveraging digital technologies for disseminating information.

In conclusion, while rural development programs have made some progress in addressing the challenges faced by small and marginal farmers, much more needs to be done. A targeted and holistic approach, focusing on improving access to credit, promoting technology adoption, consolidating landholdings, enhancing market access, and strengthening extension services, can help in addressing these issues effectively.

(b) “In the Network Era the TRAI has the challenging task of protecting the Net Neutrality from digital aggression." Comment.    (20 Marks)

In the Network Era, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has a critical role in ensuring that the principle of Net Neutrality is maintained and protected from digital aggression. Net Neutrality is the principle that all data on the internet should be treated equally by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and governments, without discrimination or differential pricing based on factors such as user, content, platform, or application.
The digital aggression refers to practices by ISPs or other stakeholders that compromise the principles of Net Neutrality. Some examples of digital aggression include:

• Throttling: The intentional slowing down of internet speed for specific content or applications by ISPs.
• Blocking: ISPs selectively blocking access to certain websites, applications, or services.
• Zero-rating: ISPs offering certain applications or services to users for free, while charging for others, thereby creating an unfair advantage for the free services.
• Paid prioritization: ISPs charging content providers for faster and more reliable delivery of their content.

TRAI's role in protecting Net Neutrality from digital aggression involves:

• Policy formulation: TRAI is responsible for formulating policies and guidelines that ensure the adherence to the principle of Net Neutrality by ISPs and other stakeholders. It has issued recommendations on Net Neutrality, which emphasize the need for non-discriminatory treatment of content and prohibit any interference in the treatment of internet traffic.
• Regulation and enforcement: TRAI is responsible for enforcing the guidelines and policies on Net Neutrality. It monitors the practices of ISPs and takes necessary actions against those found violating the rules. For example, in 2016, TRAI barred Facebook's Free Basics service in India, which offered free access to select websites and services, for violating Net Neutrality principles.
• Advocacy and awareness: TRAI also plays a crucial role in promoting awareness and understanding of Net Neutrality principles among the public, industry stakeholders, and government bodies.
• Redressal of grievances: TRAI has established mechanisms for addressing complaints and grievances related to Net Neutrality violations by ISPs or other stakeholders.

In conclusion, as the regulator of the telecommunications sector in India, TRAI has a crucial role in protecting Net Neutrality from digital aggression in the Network Era. By formulating policies, ensuring compliance, and creating awareness, TRAI contributes to a free, open, and fair internet ecosystem, which is essential for the growth and development of the digital economy and the realization of India's digital aspirations.

(c) “Neighbourhood management provides an appropriate glocal strategy of dealing with social exclusion in the urban development scenario” Comment.    (10 Marks)

The statement highlights the potential of neighbourhood management as a glocal (global + local) strategy to address social exclusion in urban development. Glocal strategies, as the term suggests, combines global ideas and practices with a local context, making it more suitable and effective for implementation. Neighbourhood management, in this sense, is an approach to urban development that aims at integrating different aspects of a neighbourhood, such as social, economic, and environmental factors, to create inclusive, cohesive, and sustainable communities.
The effectiveness of neighbourhood management as a glocal strategy to tackle social exclusion in urban development through the following points:

• Localized decision-making: Neighbourhood management empowers local communities by involving them in decision-making processes, leading to more informed and contextual solutions. This inclusive approach can help in addressing social exclusion by giving voice and representation to marginalized sections of society.
  Example: The Delhi Urban Environment and Infrastructure Improvement Project (DUEIIP) in India involved participatory planning and decision-making, leading to better identification of local needs and priorities.
• Promoting social cohesion: Neighbourhood management facilitates interaction and cooperation among various social groups within a community. This can help in reducing social exclusion by fostering a sense of belonging and understanding among diverse groups.
  Example: The Neighbourhood Management Programme in the UK aimed at promoting social cohesion and reducing crime rates by involving local residents in identifying and addressing issues related to safety and security.
• Enhancing accessibility to services: By focusing on local needs and priorities, neighbourhood management can ensure that essential services such as healthcare, education, and housing are accessible to all, including marginalized groups.
  Example: The Slum Networking Project in Ahmedabad, India, aimed to improve access to essential services such as water, sanitation, and solid waste management for slum dwellers through community-driven initiatives.
• Economic opportunities: Neighbourhood management can facilitate local economic development by promoting entrepreneurship, skill development, and job creation, thus reducing social exclusion by providing economic opportunities to disadvantaged groups.
  Example: The Kudumbashree project in Kerala, India, focuses on empowering women through self-help groups, micro-enterprise development, and skill training, leading to improved economic opportunities and social inclusion.
• Environmental sustainability: Neighbourhood management promotes sustainable urban development by encouraging local resource management, waste reduction, and energy efficiency. This can help in addressing social exclusion by creating healthier living environments for all.
  Example: The Integrated Urban Environmental Sanitation Program in Brazil focused on improving sanitation, solid waste management, and stormwater drainage systems in low-income neighborhoods, leading to better living conditions and reduced health risks.

To conclude, neighbourhood management can indeed provide an appropriate glocal strategy to deal with social exclusion in urban development. By focusing on local needs and priorities, involving communities in decision-making, and promoting social cohesion, accessibility to services, economic opportunities, and environmental sustainability, neighbourhood management can create more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban spaces.

Q.8.(a) “Effective public grievance redressal requires administrative commitment. But process reengineering can help prevent some grievances.” Discuss.    (20 Marks)

Public grievance redressal is a crucial aspect of good governance, as it ensures that citizens' concerns and complaints are addressed effectively and efficiently. Administrative commitment is essential for an effective grievance redressal system as it involves a dedicated team of officers and staff working in tandem to resolve issues faced by the public. However, process reengineering can also play a significant role in preventing some grievances from arising in the first place.
Process reengineering refers to the redesign and restructuring of existing processes and systems to improve their efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness to changing needs. In the context of public grievance redressal, process reengineering can help streamline and simplify procedures, making it easier for citizens to access government services and reducing the chances of grievances arising due to bureaucratic delays, corruption, or lack of transparency.
Here are some examples of how process reengineering can help prevent grievances in the public sector:

• Simplification of procedures: Complex and lengthy procedures often lead to delays and increased chances of corruption. By simplifying and streamlining the procedures, the government can reduce the scope for grievances. For instance, the introduction of a single-window clearance system for industrial projects can help reduce the procedural delays and improve transparency.
• Use of technology: The use of digital platforms and technology can help make government services more accessible and user-friendly. For example, the introduction of online portals for filing complaints, submitting applications, or accessing information can help reduce the need for citizens to visit government offices physically, thereby preventing grievances arising due to delays and red tape.
• Decentralization: Decentralizing decision-making and service delivery can help bring government services closer to citizens, making it easier for them to access and avail of these services. This can help prevent grievances arising due to unresponsiveness or lack of access. For instance, the Panchayati Raj system in India has empowered local self-government bodies to take decisions related to local development, which has helped improve service delivery at the grassroots level.
• Citizen-centric approach: By focusing on citizens' needs and expectations, the government can redesign processes to be more responsive and effective. This can help prevent grievances by ensuring that the services offered meet citizens' requirements. For example, the Swachh Bharat Mission (Clean India Mission) has adopted a citizen-centric approach by emphasizing behavioral change and community participation in ensuring sanitation and cleanliness.
• Capacity building: Strengthening the capacity of government officials and staff can help improve their ability to address citizens' needs effectively. Training and skill development programs can help equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle grievances efficiently and empathetically.

In conclusion, while administrative commitment is vital for an effective public grievance redressal system, process reengineering can help prevent grievances from arising in the first place by simplifying procedures, leveraging technology, decentralizing decision-making, adopting a citizen-centric approach, and building capacity. By addressing the root causes of grievances, process reengineering can help create a more proactive and responsive government that caters to citizens' needs and expectations.

(b) “Institutional change is a necessary but not a sufficient condition for reducing criminalisation of politics.” Examine.    (20 Marks)

Institutional change refers to the reformation of existing laws, policies, and practices to bring about improvements in the functioning of various institutions, including political, legal, and administrative systems. In the context of criminalisation of politics, institutional change aims at reducing the influence of criminals in the political sphere by enforcing stricter laws, ensuring transparency, and promoting accountability among political leaders.
While institutional change is necessary for reducing criminalisation of politics, it alone cannot eradicate the problem completely. This is because criminalisation of politics is a multifaceted issue, rooted in the socio-economic and political fabric of society. To address this issue effectively, a holistic approach that includes not only institutional changes but also broader social, economic, and political reforms is required. Some of the reasons why institutional change is necessary but not sufficient are:

• Socio-economic factors: The criminalisation of politics is closely linked to socio-economic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education. In regions where these factors are prevalent, people are more likely to be lured into criminal activities, which subsequently seep into the political sphere. For instance, in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in India, the high levels of poverty and unemployment have contributed to the criminalisation of politics. Thus, addressing these socio-economic factors is crucial to reduce the influence of criminals in politics.
• Political culture: A country's political culture, including the norms, values, and beliefs that shape political behaviour, plays a major role in the criminalisation of politics. In some regions, the political culture promotes the use of muscle and money power, leading to the rise of criminal elements in politics. For instance, in India, political parties often rely on strongmen or 'bahubalis' to garner votes and intimidate opponents. Unless the political culture is transformed to prioritise merit, integrity, and public welfare, institutional changes alone will not be sufficient to reduce criminalisation of politics.
• Weak enforcement of laws: While institutional changes, such as stricter laws and regulations, are necessary to control the criminalisation of politics, they will be ineffective unless they are properly enforced. Often, due to corruption or lack of resources, the enforcement of laws remains weak, allowing criminals to continue their involvement in politics. For example, although India has laws that disqualify politicians with criminal convictions, many politicians with criminal charges continue to contest and win elections due to loopholes or delays in the judicial process.
• Public awareness and participation: Institutional changes can only be successful in reducing criminalisation of politics if there is an active involvement of citizens in the political process. Public awareness and participation ensure that political leaders are held accountable for their actions and are discouraged from engaging in criminal activities. Educating the public about the importance of electing clean candidates and promoting active participation in the political process is essential for curbing the criminalisation of politics.

In conclusion, while institutional change is a necessary condition for reducing criminalisation of politics, it is not sufficient on its own. To tackle this complex issue, a comprehensive approach that includes socio-economic development, transformation of political culture, effective enforcement of laws, and active public participation is required. Only through such a holistic approach can the criminalisation of politics be effectively addressed and the integrity of the political system be restored.

(c) “The disempowerment and depoliticisation of urban local government has happened in multiple ways,” Comment.    (10 Marks)

The disempowerment and depoliticisation of urban local government is a matter of concern for the overall functioning of urban governance and the delivery of services in the urban areas. It has happened in multiple ways, which can be discussed as follows:

• Constitutional and Legal framework: The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, provided a framework for the empowerment of urban local bodies (ULBs) by making provisions for decentralization, devolution of powers, and responsibilities. However, the implementation of this amendment has been uneven across states, with many states not devolving adequate powers and resources to the ULBs, resulting in their disempowerment and weakening of urban governance.
• Financial Constraints: ULBs face severe financial constraints, which limit their ability to deliver basic services, undertake infrastructure projects, and maintain existing assets. This is due to factors such as inadequate devolution of resources from the state government, poor revenue generation through property taxes and user charges, and limited access to capital markets. As a result, ULBs become dependent on state and central government grants, leading to disempowerment and a lack of political autonomy.
• Centralization: In many cases, state governments have centralized control over important decision-making processes, budgets, and appointments of key officials in the ULBs. This has led to a concentration of power at the state level, and the disempowerment of the local government to make independent decisions on matters related to urban development and administration.
• Bureaucratic Control: The bureaucratic control of urban local bodies has increased over time, with the appointment of bureaucrats as administrators and managers of the ULBs. This has resulted in a lack of political representation and accountability in urban governance, leading to depoliticisation and disempowerment of the local government.
• Lack of Capacity: Urban local bodies often lack the capacity in terms of human resources, technical expertise, and institutional mechanisms to carry out their functions effectively. This has led to poor service delivery, inadequate infrastructure, and an overall disempowerment of the local government in managing urban affairs.
• Political Interference: Political interference in the functioning of urban local bodies has also contributed to its disempowerment and depoliticisation. Elected representatives often face pressure from higher-level political leaders, which undermines the autonomy of the local government and its ability to take independent decisions.

Examples:

• In many Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, the multiplicity of authorities like the Municipal Corporation, Development Authority, and various parastatal agencies has led to fragmentation of responsibilities and weakened the urban local government.
• The Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), a centrally sponsored scheme, had provisions for devolution of powers to ULBs as a condition for receiving funds. However, many states did not effectively implement these provisions, leading to the disempowerment of local governments.

In conclusion, the disempowerment and depoliticisation of urban local government have led to weak urban governance, inadequate service delivery, and overall deterioration of the urban environment. It is essential to empower ULBs by providing them with the required resources, authority, and autonomy to make decisions and effectively manage urban affairs.