UPSC Mains General Studies (Paper 2) - Mock Test 5 [Solutions] | UPSC Mains Mock Test Series 2025 PDF Download

Q1. Discuss the role of the Law Commission of India in shaping legal reforms. How can its recommendations be made more binding on the government? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction
The Law Commission of India, a non-statutory body, plays a key role in shaping legal reforms by recommending updates to outdated laws and addressing contemporary issues. It advises the government on legal modernization.

Body
Role in Shaping Legal Reforms:

• Law Review: The Commission reviews archaic laws, suggesting amendments, e.g., the 276th Report on legalizing betting.
• Policy Suggestions: It proposes new laws, like uniform civil code frameworks, to ensure social justice.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Consults experts and public to align reforms with societal needs.
• Judicial Support: Recommends measures to reduce judicial backlog, enhancing justice delivery.

Making Recommendations Binding:

• Statutory Status: Grant the Commission legal authority to enforce recommendations.
• Parliamentary Oversight: Mandate parliamentary debates on key reports.
• Timely Implementation: Set deadlines for government response to reports.
• Public Accountability: Publish action-taken reports to ensure transparency.

Conclusion
The Law Commission drives legal reforms through expert recommendations. Statutory powers and accountability measures can make its suggestions more binding, ensuring effective implementation.

Q2. Examine the significance of the Doctrine of Checks and Balances in the Indian Constitution. How does it prevent the concentration of power? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The Doctrine of Checks and Balances in the Indian Constitution ensures no single organ—Legislature, Executive, or Judiciary—dominates, maintaining democratic equilibrium and preventing power concentration.

Body
Significance of Checks and Balances:

• Separation of Powers: Each organ has distinct roles, with checks to prevent overreach, e.g., judicial review of laws.
• Legislative Oversight: Parliament scrutinizes executive actions through question hours and committees.
• Judicial Independence: Courts can strike down unconstitutional laws, as in Kesavananda Bharati (1973).
• Executive Accountability: The President can withhold assent to bills, balancing legislative power.

Preventing Power Concentration:

• Judicial Review: Courts check legislative and executive actions, protecting fundamental rights.
• Bicameralism: Rajya Sabha prevents hasty laws by Lok Sabha.
• CAG Audits: Ensures financial accountability of the executive.

Conclusion
The Doctrine of Checks and Balances upholds India’s democratic framework by ensuring mutual accountability. Its robust mechanisms prevent power concentration, safeguarding constitutional integrity.

Q3. Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and decency in the proceedings and upholding the democratic principles. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
Presiding Officers, like Speakers and Chairmen of state legislatures, are pivotal in ensuring orderly proceedings and upholding democratic principles through impartiality and procedural adherence.

Body
Role in Maintaining Order and Decency:

• Conducting Proceedings: They regulate debates, ensuring discipline, as seen in managing Question Hour.
• Enforcing Rules: Presiding Officers apply legislative rules to prevent disruptions, like suspending unruly members.
• Ensuring Fairness: They allocate time equitably to all parties, promoting inclusive discussions.
• Deciding Disputes: They rule on points of order, maintaining procedural clarity.

Upholding Democratic Principles:

• Impartiality: Officers remain neutral, ensuring fair representation, as upheld in Kihoto Hollohan (1992).
• Protecting Rights: They safeguard members’ freedom of speech under Article 194.
• Transparency: Ensure public access to proceedings, strengthening democratic accountability.

Conclusion
Presiding Officers maintain order and decency while upholding democratic values through impartiality and rule enforcement. Their role strengthens legislative integrity and public trust in democracy.

Q4. Comment on the role of the National Commission for Minorities in promoting communal harmony. What reforms are needed to enhance its effectiveness? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The National Commission for Minorities (NCM), established under the 1992 Act, promotes communal harmony by safeguarding minority rights and addressing their grievances in India.

Body
Role in Promoting Communal Harmony:

• Grievance Redressal: The NCM resolves complaints of discrimination, ensuring minority inclusion.
• Policy Recommendations: It advises on policies to protect minority rights, e.g., educational schemes.
• Community Engagement: Organizes interfaith dialogues to foster mutual understanding.
• Monitoring Welfare: Oversees schemes like PM’s 15-Point Programme for minority welfare.

Reforms to Enhance Effectiveness:

• Statutory Powers: Grant NCM binding authority to enforce recommendations.
• Resource Allocation: Increase funding and staff for efficient grievance handling.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educate minorities about their rights to enhance participation.
• Proactive Monitoring: Strengthen oversight of communal incidents to prevent escalation.

Conclusion
The NCM fosters communal harmony through advocacy and grievance redressal. Empowering it with legal authority, resources, and proactive measures can significantly enhance its effectiveness.

Q5. Analyze the impact of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme on gender sensitization. What are the challenges in achieving its objectives at the grassroots level? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer: 

Introduction
The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, launched in 2015, aims to promote gender sensitization, improve the child sex ratio, and ensure girls’ education, addressing gender disparities.

Body
Impact on Gender Sensitization:

• Awareness Creation: BBBP campaigns educate communities on gender equality, e.g., in Haryana.
• Improved Sex Ratio: Districts like Panipat showed better child sex ratios post-campaigns.
• Girls’ Education: Scholarships and school enrollment drives empower girls.
• Community Engagement: Involves local leaders to challenge patriarchal norms.

Challenges at Grassroots Level:

• Cultural Barriers: Deep-rooted patriarchal attitudes resist change in rural areas.
• Implementation Gaps: Irregular fund disbursal delays campaign execution.
• Low Awareness: Limited outreach in remote areas hampers participation.
• Monitoring Weakness: Inadequate tracking of outcomes reduces impact assessment.

Conclusion
BBBP has advanced gender sensitization and girls’ welfare, but grassroots challenges like cultural resistance and implementation gaps persist. Enhanced awareness, funding, and monitoring can ensure its success.

Q6. Discuss the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in ensuring access to justice for marginalized groups. Highlight its achievements and limitations. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

Answer:

Introduction
The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, ensures access to justice for marginalized groups through free legal aid and awareness programs.

Body
Role in Ensuring Access to Justice:

• Free Legal Aid: NALSA provides legal services to SC/STs, women, and economically weaker sections.
• Legal Awareness: It conducts camps to educate marginalized communities about their rights.
• Lok Adalats: Organizes alternative dispute resolution for quick justice delivery.
• Special Programs: Focuses on prisoners and juveniles, ensuring their rights are protected.

Achievements:

• Over 1 crore people benefited through legal aid by 2023.
• Lok Adalats resolved millions of cases, reducing judicial backlog.

Limitations:

• Resource Constraints: Limited funding affects outreach in remote areas.
• Awareness Gaps: Many marginalized groups remain unaware of NALSA’s services.

Conclusion
NALSA significantly enhances access to justice for marginalized groups. Increased funding and awareness campaigns can address its limitations, ensuring equitable justice delivery.

Q7. Evaluate the significance of India’s Look West Policy in strengthening ties with Gulf countries. How does it contribute to energy security? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer:

Introduction
India’s Look West Policy strengthens strategic and economic ties with Gulf countries, addressing energy security, trade, and diaspora welfare in the region.

Body
Significance of Look West Policy:

• Economic Ties: Boosts trade, with Gulf countries contributing 20% of India’s trade volume.
• Diaspora Engagement: Supports 9 million Indian workers in the Gulf, ensuring remittances.
• Strategic Partnerships: Agreements like India-UAE CEPA (2022) enhance bilateral cooperation.
• Regional Stability: Strengthens India’s role in Gulf geopolitics, countering regional tensions.

Contribution to Energy Security:

• Oil Imports: Gulf countries supply 60% of India’s crude oil, e.g., Saudi Arabia and UAE.
• Strategic Reserves: Joint ventures, like India-UAE oil storage, ensure supply stability.
• Renewable Energy: Collaborations in solar energy align with India’s green goals.

Conclusion
The Look West Policy deepens India’s Gulf ties, ensuring energy security through reliable oil supplies and strategic partnerships. Continued engagement can further strengthen economic and energy cooperation.

Q8. Comment on the challenges in implementing the Mid-Day Meal Scheme in improving nutritional outcomes. Suggest measures to enhance its effectiveness. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer:

Introduction
The Mid-Day Meal Scheme, launched in 1995, aims to improve nutritional outcomes and school attendance among children. Despite its impact, implementation challenges persist.

Body
Challenges in Implementation:

• Quality Issues: Poor food quality and hygiene in some schools lead to health concerns.
• Fund Delays: Irregular funding disrupts meal supply, affecting consistency.
• Monitoring Gaps: Weak oversight results in mismanagement, as seen in Bihar’s 2013 incident.
• Cultural Preferences: Uniform menus often ignore regional dietary habits, reducing acceptance.

Measures to Enhance Effectiveness:

• Quality Control: Implement strict hygiene standards and regular inspections.
• Timely Funding: Ensure prompt fund disbursal to maintain meal continuity.
• Robust Monitoring: Use technology like real-time dashboards for accountability.
• Localized Menus: Incorporate regional food preferences to enhance acceptance.

Conclusion
The Mid-Day Meal Scheme significantly improves nutritional outcomes, but quality and funding issues hinder its success. Targeted measures can ensure better implementation and impact.

Q9. Examine the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in promoting inclusive governance in India. Provide examples of their impact on policy-making. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer:

Introduction
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in India play a vital role in promoting inclusive governance by advocating for marginalized communities and influencing policy-making.

Body
Role in Promoting Inclusive Governance:

• Advocacy: NGOs raise awareness about marginalized groups’ issues, pushing for inclusive policies.
• Grassroots Engagement: They bridge gaps between communities and governments, ensuring local voices are heard.
• Policy Inputs: NGOs provide data and expertise to shape equitable policies.
• Monitoring Accountability: They hold governments accountable for inclusive governance.

Examples of Impact:

• Right to Education: NGOs like Pratham influenced the RTE Act, 2009, by advocating for universal education.
• Food Security: Oxfam’s campaigns contributed to the National Food Security Act, 2013.
• Environmental Policies: Greenpeace’s advocacy shaped stricter pollution control norms.

Conclusion
NGOs foster inclusive governance by amplifying marginalized voices and shaping policies. Strengthening their collaboration with governments can further enhance their impact on equitable development.

Q10. Discuss India’s contributions to global counter-terrorism efforts through the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). How does it align with India’s security interests? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)

​Answer:

Introduction
India’s active participation in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) strengthens global counter-terrorism efforts by curbing terror financing, aligning with its national security interests.

Body
India’s Contributions to FATF:

• Policy Compliance: India aligns with FATF’s 40 recommendations, strengthening anti-money laundering (AML) laws.
• Information Sharing: Shares intelligence on terror financing, aiding global investigations.
• Capacity Building: Trains regional countries on AML and counter-terrorism financing measures.
• Global Advocacy: Pushes for stricter norms against terror financing, e.g., targeting Pakistan’s grey-list status.

Alignment with Security Interests:

• Terror Threat Reduction: Strengthened AML laws curb funding to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba.
• Border Security: FATF compliance enhances tracking of cross-border illicit funds.
• Global Cooperation: Bolsters India’s role in international security frameworks, enhancing diplomatic leverage.

Conclusion
India’s FATF contributions strengthen global counter-terrorism by curbing illicit financing. This aligns with India’s security interests, reducing domestic terror threats and enhancing global cooperation.

Q11. Critically analyze the role of the President of India in maintaining constitutional balance. How does the discretionary power of the President impact Centre-State relations? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

​Answer:

Introduction
The President of India, as the constitutional head, plays a pivotal role in maintaining constitutional balance by acting as a custodian of the Constitution. Their discretionary powers significantly influence Centre-State relations, ensuring federal harmony.

Body
Role in Maintaining Constitutional Balance:

• Legislative Oversight: The President reviews bills, ensuring they align with constitutional principles, e.g., returning bills for reconsideration.
• Executive Check: Appoints key officials like the Prime Minister and Governors, ensuring impartial governance.
• Judicial Safeguard: Grants pardons under Article 72, upholding justice and fairness.
• Emergency Powers: Under Articles 356 and 360, the President can intervene to restore constitutional order.

Discretionary Powers and Centre-State Relations:

• Bill Assent: The President can withhold assent to state bills reserved by Governors, as seen in the Tamil Nadu NEET Bill case, balancing state autonomy with national interest.
• Governor Appointments: Discretionary appointments influence state governance, sometimes causing friction, e.g., Kerala Governor disputes.
• President’s Rule: Under Article 356, imposition of President’s Rule can strain Centre-State ties if perceived as partisan, as in Arunachal Pradesh (2016).
• Federal Mediator: Discretionary powers enable dialogue between Centre and States, fostering cooperative federalism.

Critical Analysis:
While discretionary powers ensure constitutional checks, their misuse risks politicization, undermining federal trust. Clear guidelines and judicial oversight, as in S.R. Bommai (1994), are vital to prevent abuse.

Conclusion
The President’s role is crucial for constitutional balance, with discretionary powers shaping Centre-State dynamics. Transparent and judicious exercise of these powers strengthens federalism, ensuring constitutional integrity.

Q12. ‘The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government.’ Discuss. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

​Answer:

Introduction
The Fourth Industrial Revolution, characterized by digital technologies like AI, IoT, and big data, has transformed governance by integrating e-Governance as a core component. It enhances efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement in India.

Body
Role of e-Governance in the Fourth Industrial Revolution:

• Service Delivery: Digital platforms like e-Seva and UMANG provide seamless access to government services, reducing bureaucratic delays.
• Transparency and Accountability: Initiatives like Digital India and e-Taal enable real-time tracking of government schemes, ensuring transparency.
• Citizen Participation: Online portals, such as MyGov, encourage public feedback in policy-making, fostering inclusivity.
• Data-Driven Governance: AI and analytics optimize resource allocation, as seen in smart city projects.

Impact of Digital Revolution:

• Digital Infrastructure: Aadhaar and BharatNet facilitate secure and widespread digital access.
• Efficiency Gains: e-Governance reduces paperwork, e.g., e-Office systems in ministries.
• Inclusivity: Digital tools bridge rural-urban gaps, like mobile-based farmer portals.

Challenges:

• Digital Divide: Limited internet access in rural areas hinders e-Governance reach.
• Cybersecurity Risks: Data breaches threaten user trust, as seen in some Aadhaar leaks.
• Capacity Gaps: Lack of digital literacy among citizens and officials limits adoption.

Conclusion
The Fourth Industrial Revolution has made e-Governance integral to efficient and transparent governance in India. Addressing challenges like the digital divide and cybersecurity through infrastructure development, training, and robust policies can maximize its potential, ensuring inclusive and responsive governance.

Q13. Evaluate the effectiveness of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) in addressing river pollution. Discuss the challenges in achieving its objectives. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

Answer:

Introduction
The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), launched in 2014, aims to rejuvenate the Ganga River by addressing pollution and ensuring ecological sustainability. Its effectiveness is mixed, with notable achievements and persistent challenges.

Body
Effectiveness of NMCG:

• Sewage Treatment: Over 150 sewage treatment plants (STPs) have been set up, treating 20% of Ganga’s sewage by 2023.
• River Cleaning: Initiatives like ‘Namami Gange’ reduced visible pollutants in stretches like Varanasi.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Projects to protect aquatic species, like Gangetic dolphins, show progress.
• Public Awareness: Campaigns engage communities in conservation efforts.

Challenges in Achieving Objectives:

• Industrial Pollution: Untreated effluents from tanneries and factories continue to pollute, e.g., in Kanpur.
• Funding Delays: Irregular fund disbursal hampers timely project completion.
• Coordination Issues: Weak collaboration between states and central agencies delays execution.
• Urban Encroachment: Illegal constructions along the riverbank obstruct ecological restoration.
• Monitoring Gaps: Inconsistent water quality monitoring reduces accountability.

Suggested Diagram: A flowchart showing NMCG components (STPs, afforestation, public awareness) and their impact on pollution reduction.

Conclusion
The NMCG has made strides in reducing Ganga’s pollution through infrastructure and awareness. However, industrial pollution, funding issues, and coordination gaps hinder its success. Strengthening inter-state collaboration, ensuring timely funds, and enforcing stricter regulations can enhance NMCG’s effectiveness in achieving a cleaner Ganga.

Q14. Examine the constitutional provisions for safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities in India. How effective are these measures in promoting inclusion? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

​Answer:

Introduction
India’s Constitution provides a robust framework to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs), promoting their inclusion through affirmative action and legal protections. However, implementation gaps limit effectiveness.

Body
Constitutional Provisions:

• Article 14: Ensures equality before the law, prohibiting discrimination against PwDs.
• Article 15(4): Enables special provisions for PwDs, like reservations in education and jobs.
• Article 21: Guarantees the right to life with dignity, including accessibility for PwDs.
• RPwD Act, 2016: Complements constitutional provisions by mandating 4% reservation and accessibility standards.

Effectiveness in Promoting Inclusion:

• Positive Impact: Reservations in education and government jobs, as per RPwD Act, empower PwDs, e.g., increased employment in public sectors.
• Accessibility Measures: Initiatives like Sugamya Bharat enhance physical and digital access.
• Challenges: Poor implementation of accessibility norms in public spaces limits inclusion.
• Awareness Gaps: Low awareness of rights among PwDs reduces access to benefits.
• Infrastructure Deficits: Inadequate ramps and assistive technologies hinder mobility, especially in rural areas.
• Social Stigma: Cultural biases restrict social and economic integration.

Solutions:

• Strict Enforcement: Monitor compliance with accessibility standards.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educate communities and PwDs about rights.
• Infrastructure Development: Expand accessible facilities in rural areas.

Conclusion
Constitutional provisions provide a strong foundation for PwD rights, but implementation gaps hinder inclusion. Enhanced enforcement, awareness, and infrastructure can ensure effective inclusion, fostering an equitable society for PwDs.

Q15. Discuss the strategic significance of India’s engagement with the European Union in addressing global trade and climate challenges. How does it strengthen India’s global standing? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

​Answer:

Introduction
India’s engagement with the European Union (EU) is strategically significant in addressing global trade and climate challenges, enhancing India’s influence in the global arena.

Body
Strategic Significance:

• Trade Partnership: The EU is India’s third-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding €110 billion in 2023.
• Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Ongoing India-EU FTA negotiations aim to boost market access and reduce tariffs.
• Climate Cooperation: Joint initiatives like the India-EU Clean Energy Partnership support renewable energy development.
• Technology Sharing: Collaboration in green technologies aids India’s net-zero goals by 2070.

Addressing Global Challenges:

• Trade Diversification: The FTA counters protectionism, ensuring stable supply chains.
• Climate Action: Joint projects, like solar and wind energy initiatives, align with Paris Agreement goals.
• Multilateral Advocacy: India and the EU push for reformed WTO rules, promoting fair trade.

Strengthening India’s Global Standing:

• Economic Influence: Enhanced trade ties elevate India’s role in global markets.
• Climate Leadership: Cooperation showcases India’s commitment to sustainability, boosting its image.
• Diplomatic Leverage: Strategic dialogues strengthen India’s voice in global forums like G20.

Challenges:

• Trade Barriers: EU’s stringent standards, like carbon border taxes, challenge Indian exports.
• Negotiation Delays: Prolonged FTA talks hinder progress.

Conclusion
India’s EU engagement strengthens trade and climate action, aligning with global goals. It enhances India’s global standing through economic and diplomatic gains. Resolving trade barriers and expediting FTA talks can further amplify this partnership’s impact.

Q16. Analyze the role of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes in protecting tribal rights. Suggest measures to address gaps in its implementation framework. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

​Answer:

Introduction
The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), established under Article 338A, is tasked with safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India. It ensures their socio-economic and cultural protection.

Body
Role in Protecting Tribal Rights:

• Grievance Redressal: The NCST addresses issues like land alienation and discrimination, ensuring justice for STs.
• Policy Recommendations: It advises on tribal welfare policies, such as enhancing Forest Rights Act implementation.
• Monitoring Welfare Schemes: Oversees programs like tribal scholarships, ensuring effective delivery.
• Cultural Preservation: Promotes tribal heritage through recommendations on education and cultural programs.

Implementation Gaps:

• Limited Authority: NCST’s recommendations are non-binding, reducing enforcement impact.
• Resource Constraints: Inadequate funding and staffing limit outreach, especially in remote areas.
• Awareness Gaps: Many tribal communities are unaware of NCST’s role and their rights.
• Coordination Issues: Weak collaboration with state governments delays grievance resolution.

Measures to Address Gaps:

• Binding Powers: Grant NCST statutory authority to enforce recommendations.
• Resource Enhancement: Increase funding and trained personnel for effective operations.
• Awareness Campaigns: Launch grassroots initiatives to educate tribes about their rights.
• Strengthened Coordination: Establish regular dialogues with states for seamless policy implementation.

Conclusion
The NCST plays a critical role in protecting tribal rights through advocacy and monitoring. Addressing gaps with binding powers, enhanced resources, and awareness campaigns can strengthen its framework, ensuring robust protection for tribal communities.

Q17. Critically examine the impact of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act on urban local governance. How can devolution of powers be strengthened to improve urban administration? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

​Answer:

Introduction
The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, transformed urban local governance by empowering Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to promote decentralized administration and urban development in India.

Body
Impact on Urban Local Governance:

• Decentralized Governance: The Act devolved 18 functions to ULBs, like urban planning and water supply, enhancing local decision-making.
• Democratic Participation: Mandatory elections and ward committees ensure citizen involvement, as seen in cities like Bengaluru.
• Women’s Representation: 33% reservation for women in ULBs promotes gender-inclusive governance.
• Financial Autonomy: ULBs gained powers to raise revenue, though implementation varies.

Critical Challenges:

• Limited Devolution: States often retain control over key functions, undermining ULB autonomy.
• Financial Dependence: Inadequate revenue sources limit ULB capacity, e.g., reliance on state grants.
• Capacity Gaps: Lack of trained personnel hampers effective administration.
• Urban Overload: Rapid urbanization strains ULB resources, affecting service delivery.

Measures to Strengthen Devolution:

• Clear Devolution: Mandate full transfer of 18 functions to ULBs with clear timelines.
• Financial Empowerment: Enhance ULBs’ revenue through property tax reforms and user charges.
• Capacity Building: Train ULB officials in urban planning and governance.
• Public Participation: Strengthen ward committees for inclusive decision-making.

Conclusion
The 74th Amendment has strengthened urban governance but faces challenges in devolution and capacity. Clear mandates, financial empowerment, and training can enhance ULB effectiveness, ensuring sustainable urban administration.

Q18. ‘The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.’ Discuss. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

Answer: 

Introduction
India’s party system is undergoing a transition marked by contradictions and paradoxes, reflecting shifts in political dynamics, voter preferences, and coalition politics.

Body
Features of Transition:

• Multi-Party Dominance: The rise of regional parties alongside national ones, like BJP and Congress, creates a fragmented yet competitive system.
• Coalition Politics: Alliances, like NDA and INDIA, dominate, but ideological inconsistencies arise, e.g., BJP’s alliances with diverse regional parties.
• Ideological Shifts: Parties oscillate between populism and ideology, with BJP’s Hindutva clashing with secular promises of others.
• Voter Behavior: Increasing voter awareness contrasts with persistent vote-buying and caste-based politics.

Contradictions and Paradoxes:

• National vs. Regional: National parties dominate discourse, yet regional parties hold sway in states, e.g., TMC in West Bengal.
• Ideology vs. Pragmatism: Parties adopt populist measures, like freebies, contradicting long-term policy goals.
• Democratic Expansion: While elections are vibrant, dynastic politics and money power undermine democratic ideals.

Implications:

• Governance Challenges: Coalition contradictions lead to policy instability.
• Polarization: Ideological battles fuel social divisions.

Way Forward:

• Electoral Reforms: Curb money power and dynastic politics through stricter laws.
• Party Transparency: Mandate internal democracy and financial disclosures.

Conclusion
India’s party system reflects a complex transition with vibrant democracy marred by contradictions. Electoral reforms and transparency can resolve paradoxes, ensuring a robust and inclusive political system.

Q19. Evaluate India’s role in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in the contemporary geopolitical context. How does it balance India’s strategic autonomy with global partnerships? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

​Answer:

Introduction
India, a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), continues to shape its role in the contemporary geopolitical landscape, balancing strategic autonomy with global partnerships amidst a multipolar world.

Body
India’s Role in NAM:

• Promoting Sovereignty: India advocates for independent foreign policies, resisting great power dominance, as seen in NAM summits.
• South-South Cooperation: Strengthens ties with developing nations, e.g., supporting Africa’s development agenda.
• Global Advocacy: Pushes for UN reforms and climate justice, aligning with NAM’s principles.
• Conflict Mediation: India facilitates dialogue in global crises, like supporting peace in Ukraine.

Balancing Strategic Autonomy and Global Partnerships:

• Autonomy Preservation: India avoids military alliances, maintaining freedom in foreign policy, e.g., neutral stance in US-China tensions.
• Global Engagements: Partnerships like Quad and BRICS complement NAM’s non-alignment ethos, enhancing India’s influence.
• Economic Diplomacy: India leverages NAM for trade and technology cooperation while engaging with G20.
• Security Cooperation: Balances NAM’s non-alignment with defense ties, like India-France agreements.

Challenges:

• Geopolitical Polarization: Rising US-China rivalry pressures India’s neutral stance.
• Relevance of NAM: NAM’s influence wanes in a multipolar world, requiring revitalization.

Conclusion
India’s role in NAM reinforces its strategic autonomy while fostering global partnerships. By advocating for developing nations and engaging in multilateral forums, India balances non-alignment with global influence. Revitalizing NAM’s relevance can further strengthen India’s geopolitical standing.

Q20. Discuss the challenges in implementing the National Policy for Rare Diseases, 2021. Suggest measures to ensure equitable access to treatment for affected populations. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks) 

​Answer:

Introduction
The National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD), 2021, aims to provide affordable treatment and support for rare disease patients in India. Despite its intent, implementation challenges hinder equitable access.

Body
Challenges in Implementation:

• High Treatment Costs: Treatments for diseases like SMA cost crores, unaffordable for most, despite policy subsidies.
• Limited Funding: The ₹50 lakh per patient fund is insufficient for long-term care.
• Diagnostic Delays: Lack of advanced diagnostic facilities delays identification of rare diseases.
• Awareness Gaps: Low awareness among healthcare providers and patients limits policy reach.
• Infrastructure Deficits: Few Centers of Excellence (CoEs) for rare diseases restrict access, especially in rural areas.

Measures for Equitable Access:

• Increased Funding: Expand financial support through public-private partnerships for sustained treatment.
• Early Diagnosis: Establish more diagnostic centers with trained specialists across states.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educate healthcare providers and communities about rare diseases and NPRD benefits.
• Strengthen CoEs: Increase the number and capacity of CoEs for accessible treatment.
• Insurance Coverage: Mandate insurance inclusion for rare disease treatments to reduce financial burdens.
• Research Support: Incentivize research for affordable therapies through government grants.

Conclusion
The NPRD, 2021, is a step toward addressing rare diseases, but high costs and limited infrastructure pose challenges. Enhanced funding, diagnostics, and awareness can ensure equitable access, improving health outcomes for affected populations.