UPSC Mains General Studies (Paper 2) - Mock Test 4 [Solutions] | UPSC Mains Mock Test Series 2025 PDF Download

Q1. Examine the role of the Standing Committees of Parliament in enhancing legislative oversight. What are the challenges in ensuring their effective functioning? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
Standing Committees of Parliament are crucial for improving legislative oversight in India. These committees, set up under parliamentary rules, review bills, budgets, and policies to ensure accountability and better law-making.

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Role of Standing Committees in Legislative Oversight:

• Detailed Bill Review: Standing Committees carefully examine bills clause by clause to ensure thorough scrutiny. For example, the Finance Committee reviews the Finance Bill in detail.
• Budget Monitoring: They evaluate Demands for Grants to promote transparency in financial matters.
• Policy Supervision: Committees oversee ministry performance. The Public Accounts Committee, for instance, reviews CAG reports.
• Stakeholder Engagement: They consult experts and stakeholders to enrich policy discussions.

Challenges in Effective Functioning:

• Limited Time and Resources: Short timelines and inadequate resources restrict in-depth analysis.
• Political Influence: Partisan biases sometimes affect objective decision-making.
• Non-Binding Suggestions: Ministries often ignore committee recommendations.
• Lack of Expertise: Members may lack specialized knowledge for complex issues.

Conclusion
Standing Committees significantly enhance legislative oversight by ensuring accountability and quality laws. Addressing challenges through better resources, bipartisan efforts, and stronger recommendations can improve their effectiveness.

Q2. Discuss the significance of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution in shaping constitutional values. How has it been interpreted in landmark judicial decisions? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
The Preamble to the Indian Constitution outlines core values like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It serves as the guiding light for India’s democratic and secular principles.

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Significance of the Preamble:

• Foundation of Values: The Preamble provides a framework of values like justice and equality to guide constitutional interpretation.
• Symbol of Unity: It promotes national unity by emphasizing sovereignty and democratic ideals.
• Judicial Guidance: The Preamble helps courts interpret unclear constitutional provisions.

Judicial Interpretations:

• Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): The Supreme Court ruled that the Preamble is part of the Constitution’s basic structure, protecting core values from amendments.
• LIC of India Case (1995): The Court emphasized that the Preamble guides interpretation, upholding socialism and secularism.
• Berubari Union Case (1960): The Court clarified that the Preamble is not legally enforceable but reflects constitutional intent.

Conclusion
The Preamble shapes India’s constitutional values and guides governance. Its role in landmark judgments ensures it remains a cornerstone of India’s democracy.

Q3. Why is India considered as a state with ‘Unity in Diversity’? Bring out the salient features of Indian society that buttress this concept. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
​Introduction
India is often called a state of ‘Unity in Diversity’ due to its ability to unite diverse cultures, languages, and religions into a single national identity. This unique feature stems from India’s rich historical and social fabric.

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Cultural Harmony: Indians celebrate festivals like Diwali, Eid, and Christmas together, promoting inclusivity across communities.

• Linguistic Variety: India has over 19,500 dialects and 22 scheduled languages, unified by constitutional provisions like the Eighth Schedule.
• Religious Coexistence: Major religions, including Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism, thrive together, with practices like Sufism fostering unity.
• Geographical Unity: From the Himalayas to coastal regions, diverse landscapes share a common national identity.
• Constitutional Safeguards: Articles 25-30 protect cultural and religious rights, strengthening national unity.

Conclusion
India’s unity in diversity is sustained by mutual respect and constitutional protections. This harmony makes India a global example of inclusive coexistence.

Q4. Evaluate the role of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in strengthening India’s disaster resilience. Suggest measures to improve its coordination with States. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), formed under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, plays a key role in building India’s disaster resilience through policy-making, preparedness, and coordination.

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Role of NDMA:

• Policy Development: The NDMA creates guidelines, such as the National Disaster Management Plan, to reduce disaster risks.
• Training and Preparedness: It organizes training programs and mock drills to enhance disaster readiness.
• Effective Coordination: The NDMA collaborates with central and state agencies during crises, like during Cyclone Amphan.
• Technology Use: It employs tools like early warning systems and GIS mapping for better disaster management.

Measures to Improve Coordination with States:

• Decentralized Approach: Grant more autonomy to State Disaster Management Authorities for faster decisions.
• Regular Meetings: Hold joint workshops to align state and central strategies.
• Resource Sharing: Create a shared resource pool for quick access during emergencies.
• State Capacity Building: Strengthen state-level training and infrastructure.

Conclusion
The NDMA significantly boosts India’s disaster resilience. Improved coordination with states through decentralization and resources can enhance disaster response.

Q5. Comment on the challenges in implementing the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. How can it be made more effective in protecting child rights? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, aims to protect and rehabilitate children in conflict with the law and those needing care. However, its implementation faces several obstacles.

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Challenges in Implementation:

• Inadequate Facilities: There is a shortage of juvenile homes and observation centers, hindering proper rehabilitation.
• Lack of Trained Staff: Insufficient trained personnel affect the quality of counseling and reformation efforts.
• Delayed Justice Delivery: Slow judicial processes delay case resolutions, impacting child welfare.
• Low Awareness: Many stakeholders lack knowledge about the Act’s child rights provisions.

Measures to Enhance Effectiveness:

• Better Infrastructure: Increase funding to build child-friendly rehabilitation centers.
• Staff Training: Train police, judges, and staff in child psychology and rights.
• Faster Adjudication: Set up dedicated courts to speed up juvenile cases.
• Awareness Campaigns: Launch programs to educate communities about child rights.

Conclusion
Overcoming infrastructural and procedural challenges is key to implementing the JJ Act effectively. Stronger systems and awareness will better protect child rights.

Q6. Analyze the impact of devolution of powers under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act on rural governance. What are the barriers to its effective implementation? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
Introduction
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, empowered Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) by devolving powers to strengthen rural governance. It aimed to promote grassroots democracy and local self-governance.

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Impact on Rural Governance:

• Decentralized Decision-Making: PRIs gained authority over 29 subjects, enabling local planning, e.g., village water supply schemes.
• Community Participation: It encouraged participation of marginalized groups through reservations for women and SC/STs.
• Development Initiatives: PRIs implement schemes like MGNREGA, enhancing rural infrastructure.
• Accountability: Local governance fosters transparency in resource allocation.

Barriers to Effective Implementation:

• Inadequate Funds: Limited financial autonomy restricts PRI functioning.
• Lack of Capacity: Panchayat members often lack training for effective governance.
• State Interference: State governments curtail PRI autonomy through bureaucratic control.
• Low Awareness: Rural communities are often unaware of PRI roles and rights.

Conclusion
The 73rd Amendment has strengthened rural governance by empowering PRIs. Overcoming financial, capacity, and awareness barriers can ensure effective grassroots democracy.

Q7. Discuss the role of the media as the fourth pillar of democracy in India. How can its independence be safeguarded amidst commercial and political pressures? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The media, often called the fourth pillar of democracy, plays a vital role in India by informing citizens, ensuring accountability, and shaping public opinion. Its independence is crucial for a vibrant democracy.

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Role of Media in Democracy:

• Informing Citizens: Media educates the public on policies, e.g., covering elections transparently.
• Government Accountability: Investigative journalism exposes corruption, like the 2G scam coverage.
• Public Opinion Shaping: Media amplifies marginalized voices, fostering inclusive debates.
• Watchdog Function: It monitors government actions, ensuring checks and balances.

Safeguarding Independence:

• Regulatory Framework: Strengthen autonomous bodies like the Press Council to enforce ethical standards.
• Financial Independence: Reduce reliance on corporate advertisements through public funding models.
• Legal Protections: Enact laws to protect journalists from political harassment.
• Media Literacy: Educate citizens to discern credible news, reducing sensationalism pressures.

Conclusion
The media strengthens India’s democracy by ensuring accountability. Safeguarding its independence requires robust regulations, financial autonomy, and public awareness.

Q8. Comment on the strategic importance of India’s engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in promoting regional connectivity. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:
​Introduction
India’s engagement with ASEAN is strategically vital for promoting regional connectivity, fostering economic ties, and enhancing geopolitical influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

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Strategic Importance of India-ASEAN Engagement:

• Economic Connectivity: Initiatives like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway enhance trade and transport links.
• Maritime Cooperation: India’s Act East Policy strengthens maritime connectivity through ports and shipping agreements.
• Regional Stability: Engagement with ASEAN counters China’s influence, promoting a rules-based order.
• Cultural Ties: People-to-people connectivity through shared heritage, like Buddhism, strengthens bonds.

Key Initiatives:

• Infrastructure Projects: Projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project improve connectivity.
• Trade Agreements: The ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement boosts economic integration.
• Digital Connectivity: India supports ASEAN’s digital initiatives, enhancing technological collaboration.

Conclusion
India’s ASEAN engagement is crucial for regional connectivity, economic growth, and strategic balance. Sustained cooperation in infrastructure and trade can further strengthen these ties.

Q9. Evaluate the role of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in addressing India’s skill deficit. What are the gaps in its implementation strategy? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), established in 2008, plays a key role in addressing India’s skill deficit by promoting vocational training and aligning skills with industry needs.

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Role of NSDC:

• Skill Training: NSDC supports programs like PMKVY, training millions in diverse sectors.
• Industry Collaboration: It partners with private sectors to create market-relevant curricula.
• Job Creation: NSDC facilitates placements through skill centers, e.g., in IT and healthcare.
• Standardization: It ensures quality through Sector Skill Councils and certifications.

Gaps in Implementation:

• Urban Bias: Training programs focus on urban areas, neglecting rural youth.
• Quality Issues: Inconsistent training quality affects employability.
• Industry Mismatch: Some courses lack alignment with current industry demands.
• Limited Outreach: Low awareness in remote areas limits participation.

Conclusion
NSDC significantly addresses India’s skill deficit, but gaps like urban bias and quality issues need attention. Enhanced outreach and industry alignment can improve its impact.

Q10. Discuss India’s contributions to global health diplomacy through initiatives like the Vaccine Maitri program. How does it enhance India’s soft power? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
India has emerged as a key player in global health diplomacy through initiatives like the Vaccine Maitri program. By providing affordable healthcare solutions, India strengthens its global image and soft power.

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Contributions to Global Health Diplomacy:

• Vaccine Maitri Program: India supplied COVID-19 vaccines to over 70 countries, including neighbors like Nepal and Bhutan, during the pandemic.
• Affordable Medicines: As the "pharmacy of the world," India exports low-cost generic drugs globally.
• Health Infrastructure Support: India offers training and medical technology to developing nations, enhancing their healthcare systems.
• Global Partnerships: India collaborates with WHO and GAVI to address global health challenges.

Enhancing India’s Soft Power:

• Global Goodwill: Vaccine aid builds trust and gratitude among recipient nations.
• Cultural Diplomacy: Initiatives reflect India’s values of global unity and compassion.
• Strengthened Bilateral Ties: Health diplomacy fosters stronger diplomatic relations.
• Leadership Image: India’s role in health crises elevates its global standing.

Conclusion
India’s health diplomacy, led by Vaccine Maitri, showcases its commitment to global welfare. This enhances India’s soft power, fostering goodwill and diplomatic influence worldwide.

Q11. Critically analyze the role of the Rajya Sabha in India’s bicameral system. How does it ensure federal representation, and what reforms are needed to strengthen its role? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The Rajya Sabha, as the upper house of India’s Parliament, is a cornerstone of the bicameral system, ensuring checks and balances, federal representation, and legislative deliberation. It complements the Lok Sabha by providing continuity and expertise in law-making.

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Role of Rajya Sabha:

• Legislative Review: The Rajya Sabha reviews and amends bills passed by the Lok Sabha, ensuring thorough scrutiny. For instance, it refined the GST Bill.
• Preventing Hasty Legislation: Its permanent nature prevents rushed laws, acting as a stabilizing force.
• Expert Representation: Nominated members, like scholars and artists, bring specialized knowledge.
• Federal Representation: Equal representation of states, regardless of population, ensures smaller states’ voices, as seen in debates on federal policies.

Ensuring Federal Representation:

• State Representation: Members are elected by state assemblies, reflecting state interests.
• Balanced Power: It prevents dominance by populous states, fostering cooperative federalism.
• Special Powers: Rajya Sabha can initiate legislation on state subjects under Article 249, strengthening federal dialogue.

Reforms Needed:

• Addressing Delays: Streamline procedures to reduce legislative gridlock, especially in joint sittings.
• Enhancing Expertise: Increase nominated members with diverse expertise.
• Reducing Political Influence: Curb party-based voting to prioritize federal interests.
• Domicile Norms: Enforce stricter domicile requirements to ensure genuine state representation.

Conclusion
The Rajya Sabha strengthens India’s bicameral system by ensuring federal balance and legislative quality. Reforms addressing delays, expertise, and political influence can enhance its role as a true federal chamber, reinforcing cooperative federalism.

Q12. Discuss the procedures to decide the disputes arising out of the election of a Member of the Parliament or State Legislature under The Representation of the People Act, 1951. What are the grounds on which the election of any returned candidate may be declared void? What remedy is available to the aggrieved party against the decision? Refer to the case laws. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The Representation of the People Act, 1951, governs election disputes in India, ensuring fair resolution of electoral challenges for Members of Parliament and State Legislatures. It outlines procedures, grounds for invalidation, and remedies.

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Procedures for Election Disputes:

• Election Petition: Disputes are filed as election petitions in the High Court within 45 days of results, under Section 80.
• Judicial Process: The High Court conducts trials, examining evidence and witnesses, per Section 86.
• Appeals: Decisions can be appealed to the Supreme Court under Article 136.

Grounds for Declaring Election Void (Section 100):

• Corrupt Practices: Bribery, undue influence, or voter intimidation, as seen in Ram Sharan Yadav vs. Thakur Muneshwar Nath Singh (1984).
• Disqualification: Candidate ineligibility, like holding an office of profit.
• Improper Conduct: Violation of election rules, e.g., exceeding expenditure limits.
• Material Irregularities: Errors affecting election results, like improper vote counting.

Remedies for Aggrieved Parties:

• High Court Verdict: The court may declare the election void or name a new winner.
• Supreme Court Appeal: Aggrieved parties can appeal for review, as in S. Baldev Singh vs. Teja Singh Swatantar (1975).
• Re-election: If voided, fresh elections are conducted.

Conclusion
The Representation of the People Act ensures transparent resolution of election disputes through judicial oversight. Robust implementation and timely appeals, as seen in landmark cases, uphold electoral integrity, safeguarding democratic principles.

Q13. Evaluate the effectiveness of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in addressing housing shortages. Discuss the challenges in achieving its objectives in urban areas. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), launched in 2015, aims to provide affordable housing to all by 2022, extended to 2024, addressing India’s housing shortage. It targets urban and rural poor through subsidies and partnerships.

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Effectiveness of PMAY:

• Housing Delivery: PMAY has sanctioned over 1.12 crore houses, with 85 lakh completed by 2023, significantly reducing urban housing deficits.
• Financial Support: Credit-linked subsidies and direct assistance have empowered low-income groups to own homes.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration with private developers has scaled up construction.
• Women Empowerment: Mandating joint ownership for women enhances social equity.

Challenges in Urban Areas:

• Land Scarcity: High land costs and limited availability in cities hinder project implementation.
• Slum Rehabilitation: Relocating slum dwellers to distant sites disrupts livelihoods, as seen in Mumbai’s slum projects.
• Funding Delays: Irregular fund disbursal affects timely project completion.
• Quality Concerns: Substandard construction in some projects compromises safety and durability.
• Awareness Gaps: Low awareness among urban poor about PMAY benefits limits participation.

Conclusion
PMAY has made significant strides in addressing housing shortages, particularly through financial and partnership models. However, urban challenges like land scarcity and funding delays require targeted solutions, such as land reforms, timely fund releases, and awareness campaigns, to achieve its objectives effectively.

Q14. Examine the constitutional provisions for protecting tribal rights in India. How effective are these measures in addressing land alienation and cultural preservation? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
India’s Constitution provides robust provisions to safeguard tribal rights, recognizing their unique cultural and socio-economic status. These measures aim to protect tribal communities from land alienation and preserve their cultural identity.

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Constitutional Provisions:

• Fifth and Sixth Schedules: These govern tribal areas, granting autonomy to Scheduled Tribes (STs) through Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).
• Article 15(4): Enables special provisions for STs, ensuring affirmative action.
• Article 46: Promotes educational and economic interests of tribes.
• Article 244: Provides administrative frameworks for tribal areas, e.g., in Northeast India.
• Forest Rights Act, 2006: Recognizes tribal land rights, complementing constitutional provisions.

Effectiveness in Addressing Land Alienation:

• Positive Impact: The Fifth Schedule and FRA have restored land to tribes in some cases, e.g., in Odisha.
• Challenges: Weak enforcement allows illegal land transfers to non-tribals, especially in mining areas.

Effectiveness in Cultural Preservation:

• Positive Impact: Sixth Schedule ADCs promote tribal customs and languages.
• Challenges: Urbanization and mainstream integration erode cultural practices, like tribal festivals.

Gaps and Solutions:

• Weak Implementation: Strengthen enforcement of land laws through vigilant monitoring.
• Cultural Erosion: Promote tribal education and cultural festivals to preserve identity.
• Awareness: Educate tribes about their constitutional rights to prevent exploitation.

Conclusion
Constitutional provisions provide a strong framework for tribal rights, but their effectiveness is limited by poor implementation and external pressures. Enhanced enforcement, awareness, and cultural promotion can better address land alienation and preserve tribal identity.

Q15. Discuss the geopolitical significance of India’s strategic partnership with Australia in the Indo-Pacific region. How does it contribute to maritime security? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
India’s strategic partnership with Australia, strengthened through frameworks like the Quad, is pivotal in the Indo-Pacific region. It addresses shared concerns over regional stability and maritime security amidst rising geopolitical tensions.

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Geopolitical Significance:

• Countering China’s Influence: The partnership balances China’s assertive presence in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the South China Sea.
• Economic Cooperation: Bilateral trade and investment, like the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (2022), enhance regional economic stability.
• Quad Collaboration: India and Australia, as Quad members, promote a rules-based order, fostering regional stability.
• Defense Ties: Joint military exercises, like Malabar, strengthen interoperability and strategic alignment.

Contribution to Maritime Security:

• Joint Naval Exercises: Exercises like AUSINDEX enhance maritime domain awareness and combat readiness.
• Information Sharing: Agreements like the Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement (2020) facilitate real-time intelligence exchange.
• Maritime Infrastructure: Collaboration on port development strengthens secure trade routes.
• Counter-Piracy Operations: Both nations cooperate in anti-piracy and humanitarian missions, ensuring safe sea lanes.

Challenges and Way Forward:

• Coordination Gaps: Align strategies through regular high-level dialogues.
• Technology Sharing: Expand cooperation in maritime technologies like surveillance systems.
• Regional Engagement: Involve ASEAN nations to broaden maritime security frameworks.

Conclusion
India’s strategic partnership with Australia strengthens the Indo-Pacific’s geopolitical balance and maritime security. By enhancing defense cooperation, intelligence sharing, and regional engagement, both nations contribute to a stable, secure, and rules-based Indo-Pacific order.

Q16. Analyze the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) in promoting social justice. Suggest measures to enhance its constitutional mandate. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), elevated to constitutional status under the 102nd Amendment Act, 2018, is pivotal in advancing social justice for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in India. It aims to ensure their socio-economic empowerment and protect their rights.

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Role of NCBC in Promoting Social Justice:

• Policy Advisory: The NCBC recommends inclusion of communities in the OBC list, ensuring equitable access to reservations, as seen in its periodic updates to the central list.
• Grievance Redressal: It addresses complaints of discrimination, such as denial of reservation benefits, promoting fairness.
• Monitoring Welfare Schemes: The NCBC oversees implementation of OBC-focused programs like scholarships and skill development initiatives.
• Socio-Economic Data Collection: It gathers data to identify backward communities, enabling targeted policy interventions.

Measures to Enhance NCBC’s Constitutional Mandate:

• Binding Authority: Grant NCBC legal powers to enforce its recommendations, ensuring compliance by governments.
• Resource Enhancement: Increase funding and technical expertise for robust data analysis and policy formulation.
• Community Outreach: Launch awareness campaigns to educate OBC communities about their rights and NCBC’s role.
• Timely Grievance Resolution: Streamline processes to address complaints swiftly, reducing delays.
• Inclusive Representation: Engage diverse OBC groups to reflect their unique needs in policy recommendations.

Conclusion
The NCBC plays a crucial role in promoting social justice by advocating for OBC welfare and rights. Strengthening its authority, resources, and outreach can enhance its constitutional mandate, ensuring greater equity and empowerment for backward classes.

Q17. Critically examine the impact of social media on electoral democracy in India. How can regulatory frameworks balance free speech with accountability? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Social media has transformed electoral democracy in India by amplifying voices, shaping opinions, and influencing voter behavior. However, its unregulated nature poses challenges to democratic processes.

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Impact of Social Media on Electoral Democracy:

• Amplifying Voices: Social media platforms like Twitter and WhatsApp enable candidates to reach voters directly, bypassing traditional media.
• Voter Engagement: It fosters political awareness, as seen in campaigns like #VoteforIndia during 2019 elections.
• Misinformation Spread: Fake news and divisive content can manipulate voters, e.g., false narratives during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
• Polarization: Echo chambers and targeted ads deepen political divides, undermining informed decision-making.

Regulatory Frameworks to Balance Free Speech and Accountability:

• Content Moderation: Enforce guidelines to remove illegal content while preserving legitimate political discourse.
• Transparency in Ads: Mandate disclosure of political ad sponsors to curb hidden influence, as recommended by the Election Commission.
• Fact-Checking Mechanisms: Partner with independent fact-checkers to counter misinformation swiftly.
• Digital Literacy: Promote public education on identifying credible information, reducing manipulation risks.
• Legal Framework: Strengthen laws like the IT Act, 2000, to penalize malicious content without restricting free speech.

Conclusion
Social media is a double-edged sword for India’s electoral democracy, enhancing engagement but risking misinformation and polarization. A balanced regulatory framework, combining transparent moderation, fact-checking, and digital literacy, can safeguard free speech while ensuring accountability, fostering a healthy democratic process.

Q18. In the light of the recommendations of the Law Commission of India, discuss the need to regulate or not regulate betting in sports in India. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The Law Commission of India’s 276th Report (2018) recommends legalizing and regulating sports betting to curb illegal activities and generate revenue. The debate on regulation involves balancing economic benefits with social risks.

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Need to Regulate Sports Betting:

• Curb Illegal Betting: Legalization can redirect the estimated ₹3 lakh crore illegal betting market into a regulated framework, reducing black money.
• Revenue Generation: Regulated betting can contribute significant tax revenue, as seen in countries like the UK.
• Consumer Protection: Regulation ensures fair practices and prevents fraud in betting transactions.
• Prevent Match-Fixing: Oversight can monitor betting patterns to detect and deter fixing, as recommended by the Law Commission.

Arguments Against Regulation:

• Social Risks: Legal betting may increase gambling addiction, especially among youth, as seen in cases of financial distress.
• Cultural Concerns: Betting conflicts with India’s cultural values, potentially normalizing speculative behavior.
• Enforcement Challenges: Weak regulatory capacity may fail to curb illegal betting effectively.

Law Commission Recommendations:

• Licensing System: Issue licenses to operators for transparent operations.
• Consumer Safeguards: Implement measures like betting limits and addiction helplines.
• Anti-Fixing Measures: Use technology to monitor suspicious betting activities.

Conclusion
Regulating sports betting, as per the Law Commission’s recommendations, can curb illegal markets and boost revenue but risks social harm. A balanced approach with strict licensing, consumer protections, and anti-fixing measures can maximize benefits while minimizing negative impacts on society.

Q19. Evaluate India’s role in promoting sustainable development through the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). How does it align with global climate goals? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), launched by India in 2019, promotes sustainable development by fostering resilient infrastructure globally. It aligns with global climate goals, addressing climate-induced disaster risks.

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India’s Role in CDRI:

• Leadership: India spearheads CDRI, engaging 39 countries to integrate resilience into infrastructure planning.
• Knowledge Sharing: India shares expertise, e.g., post-cyclone reconstruction practices in Odisha.
• Capacity Building: CDRI trains engineers and policymakers on resilient design, enhancing global preparedness.
• Funding Support: India contributes ₹66 crore annually to CDRI, supporting research and pilot projects.

Alignment with Global Climate Goals:

• Paris Agreement: CDRI’s focus on resilient infrastructure supports adaptation goals under Article 7 of the Paris Agreement.
• SDG 9: It advances Sustainable Development Goal 9 by promoting sustainable and resilient infrastructure.
• Sendai Framework: CDRI aligns with disaster risk reduction by prioritizing climate-resilient urban planning.
• Technology Transfer: India facilitates green technology sharing, aiding low-carbon infrastructure development.

Challenges and Solutions:

• Funding Gaps: Increase international contributions to scale CDRI initiatives.
• Technical Expertise: Expand training programs for developing nations.
• Local Integration: Ensure community involvement in infrastructure projects for sustainability.

Conclusion
India’s leadership in CDRI strengthens global sustainable development by promoting disaster-resilient infrastructure. By aligning with the Paris Agreement, SDGs, and Sendai Framework, CDRI enhances climate resilience. Scaling up funding, expertise, and local engagement can further align it with global climate goals, ensuring a sustainable future.

Q20. Discuss the challenges in implementing the Forest Rights Act, 2006, in empowering tribal communities. Suggest measures to ensure its effective enforcement. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, aims to empower tribal communities by recognizing their land and resource rights. Despite its intent, implementation challenges hinder its effectiveness in uplifting tribes.

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Challenges in Implementing FRA:

• Weak Implementation: Slow processing of claims, with only 40% of applications approved by 2023, delays empowerment.
• Lack of Awareness: Many tribal communities are unaware of their FRA rights, limiting claims.
• Bureaucratic Resistance: State agencies often reject claims citing insufficient documentation, as seen in Chhattisgarh.
• Land Conflicts: Overlapping claims with forest departments and mining interests lead to disputes.
• Cultural Marginalization: FRA’s focus on land rights overlooks cultural preservation needs.

Measures for Effective Enforcement:

• Awareness Campaigns: Conduct grassroots campaigns to educate tribes about their rights under FRA.
• Simplified Processes: Streamline claim procedures with clear guidelines and reduced documentation burdens.
• Capacity Building: Train local officials and tribal leaders to expedite claim processing.
• Conflict Resolution: Establish dedicated tribunals to resolve land disputes swiftly.
• Cultural Integration: Include provisions for protecting tribal customs and heritage sites.
• Monitoring Mechanism: Strengthen oversight through regular audits and community feedback.

Conclusion
The FRA holds immense potential to empower tribal communities by securing their land and resource rights. Overcoming challenges like weak implementation, awareness gaps, and conflicts through targeted measures can ensure effective enforcement, fostering socio-economic and cultural empowerment for tribes.