UPSC Mains General Studies (Paper 2) - Mock Test 1 [Solutions] | UPSC Mains Mock Test Series 2025 PDF Download

Q1. Critically examine the role of the Finance Commission in addressing vertical and horizontal fiscal imbalances in India. How does its functioning impact cooperative federalism? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction
The Finance Commission, set up under Article 280 of the Constitution, plays a key role in ensuring fair distribution of financial resources between the Centre and States. It addresses vertical fiscal imbalances (between Centre and States) and horizontal fiscal imbalances (among States), strengthening cooperative federalism.

Body
The Finance Commission’s role in addressing fiscal imbalances includes:

• Correcting Vertical Imbalances: The Commission recommends tax devolution and grants to meet States’ revenue needs. For example, the 15th Finance Commission raised devolution to 41% of the divisible pool.
• Reducing Horizontal Imbalances: It uses criteria like population and income levels to ensure equitable resource sharing among States with different financial capacities.
• Providing Grants: The Commission offers revenue deficit and disaster relief grants to support weaker States.

Its impact on cooperative federalism includes:

• Building Trust: Fair and transparent allocations strengthen Centre-State relations.
• Challenges: Some States, like southern States, feel population-based criteria favor northern States, causing tensions.
• Policy Guidance: The Commission’s recommendations shape fiscal policies, promoting collaborative governance.

Conclusion
The Finance Commission effectively reduces fiscal imbalances and fosters cooperative federalism. Refining criteria and addressing State concerns can further improve its impact.

Q2. Evaluate the significance of the Doctrine of Basic Structure in safeguarding the Indian Constitution. How has it influenced judicial review in landmark cases? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction
The Doctrine of Basic Structure, introduced in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), protects the core principles of the Indian Constitution. It prevents Parliament from amending essential features under Article 368, ensuring constitutional stability.

Body
The significance of the Doctrine includes:

• Protecting Core Values: It safeguards principles like democracy, secularism, and judicial review from arbitrary changes.
• Balancing Flexibility and Stability: The Doctrine allows amendments while preserving the Constitution’s essence.
  Its influence on judicial review is evident in:
• Kesavananda Bharati (1973): The Supreme Court established the Doctrine, restricting amendments that harm the Constitution’s basic structure.
• Indira Nehru Gandhi (1975): The Court struck down the 39th Amendment for undermining free elections, upholding democratic values.
• Minerva Mills (1980): The Court invalidated amendments prioritizing directive principles over fundamental rights, strengthening judicial oversight.
• Criticism: Some argue the Doctrine gives excessive power to the judiciary, challenging parliamentary authority.

Conclusion
The Doctrine of Basic Structure is vital for protecting the Constitution. It strengthens judicial review but requires balance to respect parliamentary sovereignty.

Q3. Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to "one nation - one election" principle. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
Electoral reforms are essential to strengthen India’s democracy. Committees like the Law Commission and Parliamentary Committees have proposed changes, including the "One Nation - One Election" (ONOE) principle, to improve efficiency and governance.

Body
The need for electoral reforms includes:

• Reducing Election Frequency: Frequent elections disrupt governance and increase costs. ONOE suggests holding Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections together to save resources.
• Preventing Malpractices: Reforms like regulating campaign funds and barring criminals aim to ensure fair elections.
• Improving Voter Access: Enhancing EVMs and voter education can increase voter turnout.
  Challenges of ONOE include:
• Federal Concerns: States worry ONOE may reduce their autonomy by centralizing elections.
• Logistical Issues: Synchronizing election terms and handling premature dissolutions require constitutional changes.

Suggested Diagram: A flowchart showing ONOE challenges (Centre-State coordination, constitutional amendments).

Conclusion
Electoral reforms, including ONOE, can streamline democracy. Addressing federal and logistical issues is crucial for successful implementation.

Q4. Discuss the challenges in implementing the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, in promoting transparency. How can these challenges be addressed to strengthen accountability? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, empowers citizens to access public information, promoting transparency and accountability. However, its implementation faces several challenges that limit its effectiveness.

Body
Key challenges in implementing the RTI Act include:

• Bureaucratic Resistance: Public officials often delay or deny information, misusing exemptions under Section 8.
• Low Awareness: Many citizens, especially in rural areas, are unaware of RTI provisions, reducing its reach.
• Backlog in Appeals: Information Commissions face delays, with over 3 lakh pending cases in some States.
• Threats to Activists: RTI users face violence, discouraging information-seeking.
  Solutions to enhance accountability include:
• Training Officials: Regular training and digitized records can improve responsiveness.
• Awareness Campaigns: Grassroots programs can educate citizens about RTI rights.
• Strengthening Commissions: More staff and funding can clear backlogs.
• Protecting Activists: Legal safeguards and swift investigations can ensure safety.

Conclusion
Overcoming these challenges through reforms and awareness will strengthen the RTI Act’s role in ensuring transparency and accountability.

Q5. Comment on the role of the National Commission for Women in addressing gender-based violence. What structural reforms are needed to enhance its autonomy and effectiveness? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
The National Commission for Women (NCW), established under the NCW Act, 1990, works to protect women’s rights and address gender-based violence (GBV) in India, promoting gender justice.

Body
The NCW’s role in addressing GBV includes:

• Policy Recommendations: The NCW suggests legal changes, such as strengthening the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
• Handling Complaints: It investigates GBV cases, ensuring justice for victims, as seen in the 2012 Nirbhaya case.
• Raising Awareness: The NCW runs campaigns to educate society about GBV prevention.
  Structural reforms needed include:
• Greater Autonomy: Providing financial and administrative independence can reduce government control.
• Legal Powers: Granting quasi-judicial authority can make NCW’s decisions enforceable.
• More Funding: Increased budgets can improve outreach and case handling.
• Inclusive Representation: Including grassroots activists in the NCW can address diverse issues effectively.

Conclusion
The NCW is crucial in tackling GBV, but reforms like greater autonomy and legal powers are needed to enhance its impact.

Q6. Analyze the impact of coalition governments on India’s federal structure. How do they influence Centre-State relations in policy implementation? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction
Coalition governments, formed by alliances of multiple political parties, have shaped India’s federal structure since the 1990s. They reflect India’s diverse polity but pose challenges to Centre-State relations and policy implementation.

Body
Impact on India’s federal structure:

• Power Sharing: Coalition governments encourage power-sharing, as regional parties gain influence, strengthening federalism.
• Policy Compromises: Diverse interests lead to diluted policies, sometimes weakening national goals.
• Regional Representation: Regional parties amplify State-specific demands, enhancing federal inclusivity.
  Influence on Centre-State relations:
• Collaborative Policymaking: States ruled by coalition partners often align with Central policies, easing implementation. For example, UPA’s MGNREGA succeeded due to State cooperation.
• Conflicts and Delays: Differing priorities cause friction, delaying policies like GST initially.
• Bargaining Federalism: States leverage coalition dynamics to negotiate funds or autonomy, impacting policy execution.

Conclusion
Coalition governments strengthen federalism by amplifying regional voices but complicate policy implementation. Balancing national and regional interests is key to effective governance.

Q7. Examine the role of civil society organizations in shaping environmental governance in India. Cite specific examples to support your answer. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer: 
​Introduction
Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a vital role in shaping environmental governance in India by advocating for sustainable policies, raising awareness, and ensuring accountability.

Body
Role of CSOs in environmental governance:

• Policy Advocacy: CSOs influence policies by engaging with governments. For instance, the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) shaped India’s air pollution regulations.
• Public Awareness: CSOs educate communities on environmental issues. The Chipko Movement, led by local groups, highlighted deforestation risks.
• Monitoring Compliance: CSOs ensure adherence to environmental laws. Greenpeace India exposed violations in industrial pollution control.
• Community Empowerment: CSOs involve local communities in conservation. The Narmada Bachao Andolan mobilized tribals against unsustainable dam projects.

Challenges include:

• Limited Resources: Many CSOs face funding constraints, limiting their reach.
• Government Resistance: Pushback from authorities sometimes hinders advocacy efforts.

Conclusion
CSOs significantly enhance environmental governance through advocacy and awareness. Strengthening their capacity and collaboration with governments can amplify their impact.

Q8. Discuss the strategic significance of India’s engagement with the African Union in promoting Global South cooperation. How does it counterbalance China’s influence? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer: 
​Introduction
India’s engagement with the African Union (AU) fosters Global South cooperation, promoting mutual economic and diplomatic interests. It also serves as a strategic counter to China’s growing influence in Africa.

Body
Strategic significance of India’s engagement:

• Economic Cooperation: India’s investments in infrastructure and healthcare, like the Pan-African e-Network, boost trade and development.
• Capacity Building: Initiatives like ITEC training programs enhance African human resources, strengthening ties.
• Diplomatic Support: India’s backing of AU’s Agenda 2063 aligns with Global South priorities, fostering solidarity.
  Counterbalancing China’s influence:
• Soft Power Diplomacy: India’s democratic model and cultural exchanges contrast with China’s debt-heavy investments.
• Sustainable Partnerships: Unlike China’s resource-centric approach, India emphasizes capacity-building, gaining trust. For example, India’s solar projects via ISA compete with China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
• Geopolitical Leverage: India’s AU engagement secures African support in global forums like the UN.

Conclusion
India’s AU engagement strengthens Global South unity and counters China’s influence through sustainable, people-centric partnerships.

Q9. Comment on the challenges in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 at the grassroots level. Suggest measures to ensure inclusive education. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks) 

​Answer: 
​Introduction
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to transform India’s education system, emphasizing inclusivity and quality. However, its grassroots implementation faces significant challenges.

Body
Challenges in implementing NEP 2020:

• Resource Constraints: Inadequate funding and infrastructure in rural schools hinder reforms like multidisciplinary education.
• Teacher Training: Lack of trained educators for new pedagogies, like experiential learning, limits effectiveness.
• Digital Divide: NEP’s focus on technology-based learning is challenging in areas with poor internet access.
• Socio-Economic Barriers: Marginalized groups face issues like poverty and gender biases, restricting access.

Measures for inclusive education:

• Increased Funding: Allocate more budgets for rural school infrastructure.
• Teacher Development: Conduct regular training programs for NEP-aligned teaching methods.
• Digital Inclusion: Provide affordable devices and internet in remote areas.
• Community Engagement: Involve local communities to address socio-cultural barriers, ensuring equitable access.

Conclusion
Addressing these challenges through targeted measures can ensure NEP 2020’s inclusive vision is realized at the grassroots level.

Q10. Evaluate India’s role in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in addressing global climate change challenges. How does it align with India’s foreign policy? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
The International Solar Alliance (ISA), co-founded by India in 2015, promotes solar energy to combat global climate change. India’s leadership in ISA reflects its commitment to sustainable development.

Body
India’s role in ISA:

• Promoting Solar Energy: India facilitates solar projects in member countries, like rooftop solar in Africa.
• Technology Sharing: ISA’s knowledge-sharing platforms help developing nations adopt solar technologies.
• Climate Leadership: India’s push for 100 GW solar capacity domestically inspires global action.
  Alignment with India’s foreign policy:
• Global South Advocacy: ISA strengthens India’s role as a voice for developing nations, fostering South-South cooperation.
• Soft Power Projection: By leading climate initiatives, India enhances its global image, as seen in hosting ISA summits.
• Strategic Partnerships: ISA counters China’s energy dominance, aligning with India’s geopolitical goals.
• Challenges include funding gaps and technological access for poorer nations.

Conclusion
India’s ISA leadership drives global climate action and aligns with its foreign policy of sustainability and Global South solidarity.

Q11. Critically analyze the Supreme Court’s role in expanding the scope of Article 21 through judicial activism. Discuss its implications for personal liberty with reference to landmark judgments. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 
​Introduction
Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. Through judicial activism, the Supreme Court has significantly expanded its scope, transforming it into a cornerstone of fundamental rights. This expansion has redefined personal liberty, ensuring dignity and justice.

Body
The Supreme Court’s role in expanding Article 21 includes:

• Right to Dignity: In Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978), the Court broadened Article 21 to include due process, ensuring fair procedures in restricting liberty.
• Right to Privacy: The Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) judgment recognized privacy as intrinsic to personal liberty, impacting data protection and individual autonomy.
• Right to Education: In Unni Krishnan v. State of Andhra Pradesh (1993), the Court included education within Article 21, promoting access to quality education.
• Environmental Rights: The M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1987) case linked a clean environment to the right to life, ensuring sustainable living.
  Implications for personal liberty:
• Enhanced Protections: Expanded rights safeguard citizens against arbitrary state actions, strengthening democracy.
• Social Justice: Inclusion of education and health rights empowers marginalized groups.
• Criticism: Excessive judicial activism may encroach on legislative powers, raising concerns about judicial overreach.
• Implementation Challenges: Resource constraints often limit the realization of these rights at the grassroots level.

Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s activism has enriched Article 21, ensuring robust protections for personal liberty. However, balancing judicial intervention with legislative authority and addressing implementation gaps are crucial for sustained impact.

Q12. What are the aims and objects of recently passed and enforced, The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024? Whether University/State Education Board examinations, too, are covered under the Act? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 
​Introduction
The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, aims to curb malpractices in public examinations, ensuring fairness and integrity. Enacted amid rising concerns over exam fraud, it addresses systemic issues in competitive examinations.

Body
Aims and objects of the Act include:

• Preventing Malpractices: The Act penalizes cheating, paper leaks, and impersonation to maintain examination credibility.
• Ensuring Transparency: It mandates strict protocols for exam conduct, including secure question paper handling.
• Protecting Merit: By curbing unfair means, the Act ensures selection based on merit, fostering trust in public recruitment processes.
• Deterrence through Penalties: It imposes fines up to ₹1 crore and imprisonment up to seven years for offenders, deterring malpractices.
• Strengthening Accountability: The Act holds examination authorities and service providers accountable for lapses.
  Coverage of University/State Education Board examinations:
• Scope of the Act: The Act primarily applies to competitive and recruitment examinations conducted by central authorities like UPSC, SSC, and others notified by the government.
• Exclusion of University/State Exams: University and State Education Board examinations, such as semester exams or school board exams, are not explicitly covered unless notified as public examinations. However, competitive entrance exams (e.g., NEET, JEE) fall under its ambit.
• Challenges: Ambiguity in defining “public examinations” may create confusion. States may need to align their laws for broader coverage. Example: The Act responds to incidents like the 2024 NEET paper leak controversy, aiming to restore public trust.

Conclusion
The Act strengthens examination integrity but requires clarity on its scope to include university/State exams. Robust implementation is key to achieving its objectives.

Q13. Evaluate the effectiveness of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in balancing environmental protection and economic development. Discuss its achievements and limitations with reference to key cases. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
The National Green Tribunal (NGT), established under the NGT Act, 2010, aims to balance environmental protection with economic development through expeditious justice. It addresses environmental disputes, ensuring sustainable development.

Body
Effectiveness of NGT:

• Achievements:
  • Environmental Protection: In M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (2017), NGT banned diesel vehicles in Delhi to curb air pollution, prioritizing public health.
  • River Conservation: In Manoj Misra v. Union of India (2016), NGT ordered Yamuna river cleanup, enforcing strict pollution control measures.
  • Industrial Regulation: NGT’s closure of polluting industries in Vapi, Gujarat, showcased its commitment to environmental compliance.
  • Public Awareness: NGT’s proactive rulings raise awareness about environmental issues, encouraging sustainable practices.
• Limitations:
  • Implementation Gaps: Orders like the Yamuna cleanup face delays due to weak State compliance.
  • Jurisdictional Conflicts: Overlaps with High Courts create legal ambiguities, delaying justice.
  • Resource Constraints: Limited benches and funding restrict NGT’s capacity to handle cases efficiently.
  • Economic Trade-offs: Strict rulings, like mining bans, sometimes disrupt local economies, causing resistance.
• Balancing environment and development:
  • Sustainable Approach: NGT promotes green clearances with strict monitoring, balancing growth and conservation.
  • Challenges: Resistance from industries and lax enforcement hinder this balance.

Conclusion
The NGT has significantly advanced environmental governance but faces challenges in implementation and resource constraints. Strengthening enforcement, increasing resources, and clarifying jurisdiction can enhance its effectiveness in balancing environmental and economic priorities.

Q14. Examine the constitutional provisions for the appointment and removal of judges in India. How do they ensure judicial independence while addressing accountability concerns? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
The Indian Constitution provides a robust framework for the appointment and removal of judges to ensure judicial independence while addressing accountability. These provisions safeguard the judiciary’s autonomy and public trust.

Body
Constitutional provisions for appointment and removal:

• Appointment of Judges:
  • Collegium System: Under Article 124 (Supreme Court) and Article 217 (High Courts), judges are appointed by the President in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and other judges. The collegium system, evolved through the Second Judges Case (1993), gives primacy to the judiciary.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Articles 124(3) and 217(2) specify qualifications like citizenship and legal experience, ensuring merit-based appointments.
• Removal of Judges:
  • Impeachment Process: Article 124(4) allows removal for “proved misbehaviour or incapacity” through a parliamentary process involving a special majority.
  • Judicial Oversight: The Judges Inquiry Act, 1968, ensures rigorous investigation before removal.
• Ensuring independence and accountability:
  • Judicial Primacy: The collegium system minimizes executive interference, as seen in rejecting the NJAC Act (2015).
  • Secure Tenure: Fixed tenure and stringent removal processes protect judges from arbitrary dismissal.
  • Accountability Measures: Impeachment ensures accountability, though no judge has been removed, indicating high thresholds.
• Challenges: Lack of transparency in the collegium system and delays in appointments raise concerns.
  Example: The NJAC Case (2015) reaffirmed judicial independence by striking down executive-led appointments.

Conclusion
Constitutional provisions ensure judicial independence through the collegium and secure tenure while addressing accountability via impeachment. Reforms like transparent appointments can further strengthen the system.

Q15. Discuss the geopolitical implications of India’s strategic partnership with Japan in the Indo-Pacific region. How does it contribute to regional security and economic cooperation? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction
India’s strategic partnership with Japan, rooted in shared democratic values and mutual interests, plays a pivotal role in the Indo-Pacific region. It fosters regional security and economic cooperation, countering geopolitical challenges.

Body

• Geopolitical implications:
  • Countering China’s Influence: The partnership balances China’s assertive presence in the South China Sea and Indian Ocean, promoting a rules-based order.
  • Strengthening Quad: India and Japan, as Quad members, enhance maritime security through joint exercises like Malabar, deterring regional hegemonies.
  • Regional Stability: Collaboration in ASEAN forums supports a free and open Indo-Pacific, fostering peace.
• Contributions to regional security:
  • Maritime Cooperation: Joint naval exercises and India’s purchase of Japan’s US-2 amphibious aircraft strengthen maritime security.
  • Defense Technology: Agreements like the 2015 defense pact facilitate technology transfers, boosting India’s capabilities.
• Contributions to economic cooperation:
  • Infrastructure Development: Japan’s funding for India’s bullet train and Northeast infrastructure projects enhances connectivity.
  • Trade and Investment: The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (2011) boosts bilateral trade, reaching $20 billion annually.
  • Regional Connectivity: Initiatives like the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor promote sustainable development in the Indo-Pacific.
• Challenges:
  • Economic Gaps: Japan’s high-tech focus contrasts with India’s developing economy, limiting collaboration scope.
  • Geopolitical Risks: Over-alignment may strain India’s ties with other powers like China.

Conclusion
India-Japan strategic partnership enhances Indo-Pacific security and economic cooperation, countering geopolitical challenges. Deepening collaboration while addressing economic disparities can maximize its regional impact.

Q16. Analyze the role of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in addressing rural poverty. Suggest reforms to enhance its effectiveness in sustainable development. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 
​Introduction
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), enacted in 2005, guarantees 100 days of wage employment to rural households. It aims to reduce rural poverty by providing livelihood security and fostering sustainable development.

Body

• Role in addressing rural poverty:
  • Income Support: MGNREGA provides wages to over 12 crore households annually, reducing income poverty.
  • Asset Creation: Projects like water conservation and rural roads enhance agricultural productivity and connectivity. For example, check dams in Rajasthan improved groundwater levels.
  • Women Empowerment: Over 50% of workers are women, promoting financial inclusion.
  • Migration Reduction: Local employment opportunities curb distress migration to urban areas.
• Limitations:
  • Delayed Payments: Wage delays discourage participation.
  • Low Wages: Wages often fall below market rates, limiting impact.
• Reforms for sustainable development:
  • Timely Payments: Digitizing payment systems can ensure prompt disbursal.
  • Skill Development: Integrating skill training can enhance employability beyond manual labor.
  • Focus on Green Assets: Prioritizing projects like afforestation aligns with climate goals.
  • Higher Wages: Aligning wages with inflation can improve livelihoods.
  • Monitoring Mechanisms: Strengthening social audits can reduce fund leakages.
    Example: MGNREGA’s watershed projects in Andhra Pradesh boosted sustainable agriculture, benefiting small farmers.

Conclusion
MGNREGA significantly mitigates rural poverty by providing employment and creating assets. Reforms like timely payments, skill integration, and green projects can enhance its contribution to sustainable development, ensuring long-term rural prosperity.

Q17. Critically examine the role of the Election Commission of India in regulating political financing. How can transparency in electoral funding be strengthened? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
The Election Commission of India (ECI) regulates political financing to ensure free and fair elections. Despite its efforts, challenges in transparency and accountability persist, necessitating reforms to strengthen electoral integrity.

Body

• Role of ECI in regulating political financing:
  • Spending Limits: ECI enforces expenditure caps (e.g., ₹95 lakh for Lok Sabha candidates) to curb excessive spending.
  • Disclosure Norms: Political parties must submit contribution reports under Section 29C of the Representation of People Act, 1951.
  • Monitoring Mechanisms: ECI deploys expenditure observers to track campaign spending.
  • Electoral Bonds: Introduced in 2018, bonds aimed to anonymize donations but raised transparency concerns.
• Limitations:
  • Opaque Funding: Electoral bonds conceal donor identities, undermining transparency.
  • Weak Enforcement: Violations often face lenient penalties, reducing deterrence.
  • Unreported Cash Flows: Cash-based donations evade scrutiny, fueling black money.
• Measures to strengthen transparency:
  • Abolishing Anonymity: Mandating full disclosure of donor details can enhance accountability.
  • Digital Tracking: Implementing blockchain-based systems for real-time donation tracking.
  • Strengthening Audits: Independent audits of party finances by CAG can ensure compliance.
  • Public Disclosure: Publishing funding details online can empower voters.
    Example: The ECI’s action against unreported spending in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections led to candidate disqualifications, showcasing its regulatory intent.

Conclusion
The ECI plays a crucial role in regulating political financing but struggles with opaque mechanisms like electoral bonds. Reforms like mandatory disclosures and digital tracking can strengthen transparency, ensuring fairer elections and robust democracy.

Q18. What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
Centre-State relations are pivotal to India’s federal framework. Recent Union Government initiatives have aimed to streamline cooperation, but tensions persist, necessitating measures to foster trust and strengthen federalism.

Body

• Recent changes in Centre-State relations:
  • GST Council Reforms: Enhanced collaboration through GST Council decisions ensures equitable tax distribution, with States receiving 41% devolution.
  • Cooperative Federalism Initiatives: Programs like Aspirational Districts promote joint Centre-State efforts for development.
  • Policy Centralization: Moves like the abrogation of Article 370 and farm laws (2020, later repealed) sparked debates on State autonomy.
  • Fiscal Measures: Increased grants under the 15th Finance Commission support State finances, though some States critique allocation criteria.
• Challenges:
  • Perceived Centralization: Policies like NEP 2020 are seen as reducing State autonomy.
  • Trust Deficit: Southern States protest population-based fund allocations, feeling disadvantaged.
• Measures to strengthen federalism:
  • Transparent Consultations: Regular Centre-State dialogues via platforms like NITI Aayog can address concerns.
  • Equitable Funding: Revising Finance Commission criteria to balance population and development needs.
  • Decentralized Policymaking: Empowering States in policy implementation, like education reforms.
  • Strengthening Institutions: Reviving the Inter-State Council for resolving disputes.
    Example: The GST Council’s consensus-based decisions exemplify successful federal collaboration.

Conclusion
Recent changes reflect efforts to enhance Centre-State cooperation, but trust deficits persist. Transparent consultations, equitable resource allocation, and decentralized policymaking can strengthen federalism, fostering harmony and balanced development across India.

Q19. Evaluate India’s engagement with the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as a non-permanent member. How can India leverage this platform to push for UNSC reforms? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
India’s tenure as a non-permanent UNSC member (2021-22) showcased its commitment to global peace and multilateralism. Leveraging this platform, India can push for UNSC reforms to enhance its global influence.

Body

• India’s engagement as a non-permanent member:
  • Peacekeeping Advocacy: India emphasized robust peacekeeping, contributing over 2,50,000 troops historically.
  • Counter-Terrorism: India led efforts to strengthen global anti-terror frameworks, chairing the Counter-Terrorism Committee.
  • Maritime Security: India’s presidency in 2021 prioritized maritime security, hosting high-level debates.
  • Climate Action: India advocated integrating climate risks into UNSC agendas, reflecting Global South priorities.
• Leveraging UNSC for reforms:
  • Permanent Seat Advocacy: India can rally support from G4 nations (Japan, Germany, Brazil) for a permanent UNSC seat.
  • Veto Reform: Proposing restrictions on veto power to prevent misuse, aligning with African Union’s Ezulwini Consensus.
  • Inclusive Representation: India can push for more equitable representation, addressing under-representation of Asia and Africa.
  • Coalition Building: Engaging with like-minded nations via forums like BRICS can amplify reform demands.
• Challenges:
  • Resistance from P5: Permanent members, especially China, oppose reforms to maintain dominance.
  • Consensus Building: Diverse global interests complicate agreement on reform models.
    Example: India’s 2021 UNSC presidency resolution on maritime security highlighted its reformist agenda.

Conclusion
India’s UNSC engagement strengthened its global stature. By leveraging coalitions and advocating inclusive reforms, India can push for a more equitable UNSC, aligning with its foreign policy goals.

Q20. Discuss the challenges in implementing the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, in safeguarding privacy. How can India balance data protection with digital governance? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

​Answer: 

Introduction
The Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP), 2023, aims to safeguard privacy in India’s digital ecosystem. However, its implementation faces challenges, requiring a balance between data protection and digital governance.

Body

• Challenges in implementing DPDP Act:
  • Institutional Capacity: The Data Protection Board lacks adequate resources and expertise to enforce compliance.
  • Compliance Burden: Small businesses struggle with complex data protection norms, risking non-compliance.
  • Data Localization: Mandates for local data storage conflict with global digital operations, deterring investments.
  • Awareness Gaps: Limited public awareness, especially in rural areas, hinders effective implementation.
  • Surveillance Concerns: Exemptions for government agencies under Section 17 raise fears of privacy violations.
• Balancing data protection with digital governance:
  • Strengthening Institutions: Increase funding and training for the Data Protection Board to ensure robust enforcement.
  • Simplified Compliance: Provide guidelines and subsidies for MSMEs to adopt data protection measures.
  • Public Awareness: Launch campaigns to educate citizens on data rights and protection.
  • Balanced Exemptions: Limit government exemptions with judicial oversight to prevent misuse.
  • Global Alignment: Harmonize DPDP with international standards like GDPR to facilitate cross-border data flows.
    Example: The EU’s GDPR implementation offers lessons in balancing privacy with digital innovation.

Conclusion
The DPDP Act is a step toward robust data protection, but challenges like capacity and exemptions persist. Strengthening institutions, raising awareness, and aligning with global standards can balance privacy with India’s digital governance ambitions.