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UPSC IAS Mains Public Administration Solved Exam Paper - 2012

Paper - I

SECTION- A

Q.1: Attempt each of the following in about 150 words each :- (12×5=60)

a. “The Mughal Administrative System was military rule by nature and a form of centralised despotism.” Analyse. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

b. ‘Judges should not govern the country. They can lay down a law, not interfere with governance.’ Discuss.(for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

c. Critically examine the variables in the composition and functioning of Cabinet Committees. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

d. “‘Memorandum of Understanding’ scheme between the Government and Public enterprises has forced public undertakings to improve their overall performance.” Do you agree with this statement? (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

e. To what extent has the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act created a ‘federation within a federation’ in India ? (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q,2

a. “The success and prestige enjoyed by a Chief Secretary depend, to a large extent, upon his equations with the varied sets of people and institutions that form the work environment.” Critically evaluate the statement and its relevance to the role of the Chief Secretary in the discharge of his functions. 30 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

b. In the exercise of his/her functions, the President of India is a mere ‘Convenient working hypothesis’. Do you agree with this view ? Justify your reasoning with illustrations. 30 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q.3

a. ‘Parliamentary Departmental Committees have played their role effectively in analysing the demands for grants.’ Evaluate. 20 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

b. (i) Explain the emerging ambiguity in respect of the developmental role of the District Collector in the wake of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act. 10 (ii) Justify ‘indicative’ planning in the context of LPG 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

c. ‘Parliament is an independent institution, not to be seen as an extension of government or of a party.’ Elaborate. 20 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

UPSC IAS Mains Public Administration Solved Exam Paper - 2013

Paper - I

Q.1. Answer the following questions in not more than 150 words each: 10x5=50

(a) How did traditional public administration ''resolve a fundamentally irresolvable problem-creating an administration strong enough to be effective but not so strong enough to endanger accountability''? 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

(b) The theory of 'organizational incompetence' has two separate and distinct faces. Examine Chris Argyris' views on this. 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

(c) ''In the globalized public administration, hierarchy creates more ethical problems than it solves...''Comment. 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

(d) Public Administration in the neo-liberal era is governed less by instruments of internal accountability and more by those of external accountability. Elaborate. 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

(e) Discuss the view that ''tribunals should have the same degree of independence from the executive as that enjoyed by the Supreme Court and the High Courts, especially for those tribunals that look over the functions of High Courts.''10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q.2.

(a) "New Public Management may have neither been the saviour its enthusiasts promised nor the devil its critics worried it would be." Discuss. 25 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

(b) "The design of the physical structure, the anatomy of the organization came first, and was indeed the principal consideration."  "An organization is a system of interrelated social behaviours of participants."
Analyse these statements and evaluate the contributions of the respective approaches to administration theory. 25 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q.3.

(a) "Decisions are not made by 'organizations', but by 'human beings' behaving as members of organizations." How do Bernard and Simon conceptualize the relation between the decisions of the individual employee and the organizational authority? 20 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

(b)"A variety of different organizational arrangements can be used to provide different public goods and services." Explain the theory underlying this proposition and its potential contribution. 15 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

(c) What is the nature of psychological contract pursued by organizational management through authority and the employees through exertion of upward influence? 15 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q.4.

(a) Structural theory is, by and large, grounded in classical principles of efficiency, effectiveness and productivity. Explain. 25

(b) "Public interest is still inadequate as a ground concept to evaluate public "policy." Discuss. 25

Answer:

(a) Structural theory is, by and large, grounded in classical principles of efficiency, effectiveness and productivity. Explain. 25

Structural theory relates to a rigid structure of the organization which is needed for effective and efficient management of an organization. It is inherent in the writing of classical thinkers like Fayol, Taylor, Gulick and Urwick, Mooney and Reiley and Weber.

Woodrow Wilson in his famous essay “The study of Administration” propounded scientific management ,it is based on the concept of planning of work to achieve efficiency, standardization, specialization and simplification. The approach to increased productivity is through mutual trust between management and workers.

Fayol in The elements of administrative theory relate to accomplishment of tasks, and include principles of management, the concept of line and staff, committees and functions of management. Fayol considered management as a set of planning, organizing, training, commanding and coordinating functions.

UPSC IAS Mains Public Administration Solved Exam Paper - 2013

Paper - II

Time Allowed: Three Hours

Maximum Marks: 250

SECTION A

Q1. Attempt the following in about 150 words each: 10x5=50

(a) "The Charter Act of 1853 marked the beginning of parliamentary system in India." Explain.(for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(b) "Civil service neutrality is founded on the application of the principles of Rule of Law."Comment (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(c) "The second generation reforms in the Panchayati Raj institutions have changed Panchayats from an agency of development at local level into a political institution." Discuss. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(d) "Finance Commission in India performs the job of statistics aggregation." Comment (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(e) "Planning enables comprehensive and scientific understanding of problems." Examine the statement in the context of planning methodology. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q2.

(a) "Bureaucratic agencies, characterized by established procedures, specialization, leadership, clear objectives are not ideal to handle disaster management." Examine with reference to the need for administrative flexibility in managing disasters. (In about 250 words) 20 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(b) "The liberal-democratic ideology of the West influenced the shaping of value premises of the Indian Constitution." Discuss. (In about 250 words) 20 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(c) "Autonomy to public sector undertakings is a myth." Analyse in the context of the use of government expenditures by politicians who control governments at different levels. (In about 150 words) 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q3.

(a) "Laws are enacted without involving the police in the conception stage, with the result implementation of these laws leaves much to be desired." Examine the role of police in protection of children. (In about 250 words) 20.
(b) "Central Secretariat is the nodal agency for administering the Union subjects and establishing coordination among the various activities of the government." Discuss. (In about 250 words) 20
(c) Is there a need to dispense with the Office of the Governor? Examine in the context of coalition governments. (In about 150 words) 10

Answer:

(a) "Laws are enacted without involving the police in the conception stage, with the result implementation of these laws leaves much to be desired." Examine the role of police in protection of children. (In about 250 words) 20.

Under no circumstances is a juvenile to be kept in a police lock-up or jail. This has been the sentiment of juvenile legislation since the enactment of the children Acts. Reformation and rehabilitation, rather than penalizing the kid, is the essence of juvenile jurisprudence. Towards this end it is necessary to place the juvenile in a specialized setting where his development is of paramount importance. If adult wrongdoer and juvenile are kept along there is a danger of the juvenile being corrupted by hardened criminals or being abused by them. Is not treatment meted to inmates in police lock-ups and a jail isn’t commensurate with the juvenile’s age and is probably going to scar him.

Inter-State Migration

Rising regional disparities in developmental front causes an unprecedented level of inter-state migration in India. Economic survey, 2016-17 stated that as high as 9 Million people migrated for both labor and education within India. Data shows Delhi to be the largest recipient of migrants accounting for more than half the total number, followed by Mumbai and other big metropolitans. 

 
Pronounced trends in inter-Regional migration-

• The inter-state migration is being diversified. Laborers from Hindi-speaking states migrated not only in same language state, but also in southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
• It indicates that language is reduced to be a barrier in inter-state migration. 
• Economic survey has mentioned that the less affluent states like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh show out-migration trends while more affluent states like Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu show in-migration trends.

Causes of Inter-state migration-

Push Factors-

• People migrate due to various reasons. Majority of inter-regional migration occurs from less developed rural or semi-urban areas to more developed metropolitans. The prevalent reason are scarcity of cultivable lands, low agricultural productivity and very few source of income other than agriculture. 
• In semi-urban and relatively less developed urban areas, unavailability of enough job opportunities and lack of better educational opportunities are the prevalent causes of migration.
• From some regions, where education level in high and living conditions are good, women migrated after marriage to Metropolitans where their husbands work. This type of migrations are prevalent in Kanpur and Jaunpur city of Uttar Pradesh.

Pull Factor-

• India is the fastest growing economy in the world. The economic centers of the country like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai etcetera, therefore, requires huge chunk of cheap labor.
• There exists all kind of unskilled or semi-skilled works in the region which attracts poor laborers from less affluent regions. 
• There regions are having better education opportunities, better health facilities and high standard of living. This attracts migrants very much.

Consequences of Migration-

• In India, migration is a two edged sword-- it has its own benefits and problems. The effects of migration can be understood under various factors--
• Demography of both in-migrating and out-migrating states changes. With high young population migrating towards big cities, old and children population increases in source region. While the young population increases in the receiving state. 
• Migration results in the intermixing of diverse cultures and it broaden our understanding of different social and cultural aspects. However, sometimes migration create sense of dejection within individual and they fall crime and drug abuse.
• Economically, migration enhances the remittance in the source region which help in the development of the source region. However, in many instances, a section of locals become dissatisfied with the job loss in the region due to high in-migration. The recent incident of exploitation and violence with migrants in Ahmedabad, Gujarat is a prevalent example of these issues.
• Large migration in an area causes heavy burden over resources. The low skilled workers have to live in slums which are lacking in all kinds of basic amenities such as drinking water, electricity, sewage etc. 

Laws and Regulations for migrants in India-

• Former President of India Dr. Kalam, vision Provision of Urban Amenities in Rural Areas (PURA) which aims to the comprehensive development of rural area, along with economic development in the region. This will reduce high out-migration from source region and balance the inter-state migration in the country.
• Inter-state migrant workmen Act, 1979 and other labor laws stated clearly that migrant workers should be entitled to basic human rights in the source state. Besides, the source state governments are expected to issue license to the contractors who take workers away and also monitors their working and living conditions in the destination state.

Way Forward-

• High migration in India is a reality. We may balance them with better policy implementation that my reduce regional disparities, but there is a need to recognize the issues with migrants and resolve them with full political will.
• All the laws that protect migrant workers, are on the table. However, their implementation is an issue. According to World Economic forum, we need to see migration as a dynamic part of new India. Then only we can solve the complex problem of Urbanization. For instance, Smart city project should include migrants and slum development into consideration. 

Mains question-

There is a high probability that a question over migration may be asked in GS 1 after the recent Gujarat incident. The format may be--
Q. Migration in India is both a result as well as the reason of economic development. Comment. Also discuss the visible consequences of migration.
 
Hint-Try to read the question sincerely. They asked about two things-- how migration causes economic development and how economic development pull people from different states. Try to stick to the demand of the question. Introduce by some facts like Economic survey data or census. In the body part go with two sub heading reason and result. Then discuss 3 or 4 important consequences and conclude with a positive note. 
Try to demonstrate migration status by some rough diagram if possible. It will provide you an edge over others. 

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UPSC IAS Mains Public Administration Solved Exam Paper - 2014

Paper - II

Time Allowed: Three Hours

Maximum Marks: 250

SECTION A

Q1. Attempt the following in about 150 words each: 10x5=50

(a) "Ethics in public services has been the central concern of Kautilya's Arthashastra." Critically examine the statement. 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(b) Discuss the value premises of Constitutionalism in India which the bureaucracy cannot violate. 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(c) The functional role of the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) depends on the Prime Minister's policy orientation, personality and style of administration. Comment on the statement with suitable examples. 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(d) Despite the adoption of decentralized planning, participatory initiatives remain marginalized and divisive in many regions. Discuss.20 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
(e) "The Centre — State relations have acquired new dimensions in recent times due to several political parties being in power at the Centre and the States." (Second Administrative Reforms Commission). Do you agree? Give reasons to support your arguments. 10 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q2.

(a) "Public Sector Undertakings must learn to survive and be entrepreneurial without assured government budgetary support." In the light of this statement give your suggestions for strengthening their autonomy and reviving the health of sick Public Sector Undertakings. 20
(b) "Indian administration is said to be characterised by its three features viz. Weberian structures, Kautilyan practice and Gandhian rhetoric." Examine the statement. 20
(c) "District Collector is a legacy of the British Raj and has largely remained insulated from the demands of contemporary professionalism." Discuss. 10

Answer:

(a) "Public Sector Undertakings must learn to survive and be entrepreneurial without assured government budgetary support." In the light of this statement give your suggestions for strengthening their autonomy and reviving the health of sick Public Sector Undertakings. 20

Since the days of liberalization in 1990’s the role of PSU has drastically changed in Indian economy. Earlier they were the main tool for regional aspiration, industrial growth , human resource development, etc. But with LPG reforms, private players have given almost equal parity with public sector. Government of India has taken many steps in regard to proper restructuring of PSUs :

1. PSUs are given status of Maharatna, Navratna and Mini Ratna according to their performance and have full autonomy in their day to day working and greater autonomy in policy decisions.
2. Sick companies are referred to BIFR for final decision.
3. Signing of Memorandum of Understanding between ministries and company to provide more functional autonomy and competitiveness.
4. Strategic Disinvestment for the improvement of efficiency of the PSU.
5. Last but not the least, introduction of VRS( Voluntary Retirement Scheme).

But all the steps above are half hearted, some more needs to be taken :-

1. Introduction of managerial practices like citizen charter, TQM, etc in the PSU.
2. Inclusion of competitive and private budgetary practices.
3. Professional code of conduct for improving entrepreneurial skills.
4. Autonomy to diversify the production and manufacturing.
5. Collaboration and mutual transfer of employees with big ventures for better training and development.
6. More autonomy to raise funds and agreements from international market.

(b) "Indian administration is said to be characterised by its three features viz. Weberian structures, Kautilyan practice and Gandhian rhetoric." Examine the statement. 20

Indian administration is highly influenced by Weberian structures (Professional outlook), Kautilyan practice (Centralized and Welfare overtone) and Gandhian rhetoric (Moral values) :-

1. Weberian structure:-

a. Indian bureaucracy is rational-legal in character.
b. Bureaucrats are selected solely on the basis of merit.
c. Civil services as career
d. Proper hierarchy
e. Written communication
f. Distinction between private and public ends.
g. Orders are impersonal.

2. Kautilyan practice:-

UPSC IAS Mains Public Administration Solved Exam Paper - 2015

Paper - I

Time Allowed: Three Hours

Maximum Marks: 250

SECTION A

Q1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: 10×5=50

1. Waldo’s The Administrative State’ provides a fundamental challenge to some of the orthodox premises. Explain. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
2. Discuss how the Public Choice Theory promotes the concept of ‘Steering’ and undermines the concept of ‘Rowing’ in visualising efficient and effective administration. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
3. “Delegated Legislation is a necessary evil.” Comment. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
4. Do you agree with the view that the charismatic approach of the mid-1970s is a “new version” of the Classical Trait Theory of Leadership? Give reasons. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
5. “The term policy implementation is in some respects preferable to the label public administration.” Argue. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q2.

1. “Globalisation has transformed the nature and character of State from traditional administrative Welfare State to a Corporate State.” Analyse the changes in the nature of public administration in this context. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
2. “Contemporary Organisational theory seems further afield of Chester Barnard’s Functions of the Executive than of organisational ecology.” Examine the statement in the light of ecological elements in Barnard’s thought. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
3. “PPPs serve too many parties and too many interests … to be focussed.” Identify in the context of the statement, the parties involved in Public-Private Partnerships and their conflicting aims. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q3.

1. “Follett’s work was not directed towards the resolution of the conflict of ideas, but towards the resolution of structural conflicts between workers and capitalists.” In the light of the statement critically evaluate Follett’s idea of dynamic administration. 20 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
2. “Information constitutes the life-blood of the functioning of an organisation.” Explain the utility and significance of communication in decision-making. 15 (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
3. “Legislative action is not subject to the rules of natural justice.” Explain the exceptions to the rule of natural justice. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q4.

1. “Right from the days of the ‘Peoples’ Charter’ to the new concept of `Precariat Charter’, the concept of Citizen’s Charter and its scope is constantly evolving.” Comment.
2. “Weberian model of bureaucracy lacks emotional validity when applied to modern democratic administration.” Comment.
3. How far do you agree with the view that the growing influence of media comes in the way of agenda-setting by the Government?

Answer:

A. “Right from the days of the ‘Peoples’ Charter’ to the new concept of `Precariat Charter’, the concept of Citizen’s Charter and its scope is constantly evolving.” Comment.

The People's Charter enunciated the key points that were necessary to reform the electoral system and to alleviate the suffering of the working classes – these are following:

• Universal suffrage
• No property qualification required for members of parliament
• Annual parliaments meet
• Equal representation to all
• Payment of salary to members
• Vote by secret ballot

Recycle and build

Mains Paper: 2 | Governance 
Prelims level: C&D waste
Mains level: A proactive effort from municipalities and citizens towards recycling of construction and demolition waste will go a long way in curbing pollution.

Context 

• C&D Waste Management Rules were notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change in March 2016.
• For these to be translated into action, municipal corporations, municipalities and other urban local bodies need to prepare waste management plans, notify bye-laws with penalties for noncompliance, and put in place enforcement mechanisms.
• Facilitating the recycling of C&D waste has to be an important plank of the waste management plans.
• First and foremost, waste generators must be made aware of the nature of the hazard posed by C&D.
• C&D waste increases particulate matter in the air and leads to air pollution.
• Compared with municipal solid waste, it causes more traffic congestion and also pollution from dust.

Spreading awareness 

• People must understand that as water gets trapped in the debris, this becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and no amount of spraying can reach the hidden pockets of water.
• They also have to be made aware that as lakes, stormwater drains, ponds and other water bodies get choked, the city becomes more vulnerable to floods.
• Dumping C&D waste in lakes for encroachment, a common practice in large cities, also results in loss of wetlands which are necessary for water purification.
• Manual demolition by hammer and pickaxe is the norm in northern India, primarily due to the higher rates of reuse of building materials, especially good quality whole bricks, and the low wage rate.
• One of the requirements under the rules, for example, on-site unmixed, with different heaps for soil, stones, bricks, cementitious waste, plastics, wood, etc to make reuse and recycling easier.

Way forward 

• This can only be accomplished with community cooperation and oversight.
• Keep C&D waste off the roads, pavements and vacant sites and encourage its transport to recycling units.
• Bengaluru, while giving sanction to building plans, also collects ground rent for the use of pavement for storing C&D materials for 1-2 years of construction.
• Municipalities must also remove unauthorised dumpsites on vacant land.
• Ensure the beneficial uses of vacant sites without harming the rights of site owners but supporting the rights of neighbours for a pollutionfree environment.
• IL&FS Environment has three recycling plants with a total capacity of 2,650 tonnes per day in Delhi.
• Backward and forward linkages need to be forged with all recycling plants so that C&D waste reaches the recycling plants and there is an effective demand for the output from these plants.
• It is important to set standards and have quality certification for the recycled materials so that more and more builders are encouraged to use these materials.

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General Studies Pre. Cum Mains Study Materials

UPSC Prelims Questions: 

Q.1) It is a Ramsar site in India which is a constructed wetland for sewage disposal and is both efficient and environmentally friendly. The 8,000-hectare site is a patchwork of tree-fringed canals, rice paddies and fish ponds and one-third of the city's sewage and domestic refuse is converted into a rich harvest of fish and fresh vegetables.
The wetland which is being described in the above passage is?
(a) Vembanad- Kol Lake
(b) Chilika Lake
(c) East Kolkata Wetland
(d) Wular Lake

Correct Answer: C

UPSC Mains Questions:
Q.1) Construction and demolition waste is a major environmental and health hazard. Examine and suggest sustainable solutions for dealing with C&D waste? (250 words)
 

Policy paralysis

Mains Paper: 3 | Internal Security 
Prelims level: Rafale deal
Mains level: Preventing defence scandals require a transparent national security discourse which India is not prepared.

Context 

• Prices are not falling but the farmer is getting a rough deal.
• Industrial output and GDP growth is not picking up.
• The economy will pick up is repeated by the senior-most officials from whom we actually expect answers to real problems.
• The terms of trade were doing badly for agriculture and the farmer was not doing too well.
• Big MSP increases without policy support.
• Mandi prices in bajra, maize, cotton and major oilseeds and pulses were ruling below support prices.
• Ten to 40 per cent deficiencies are common.

Way forward 

• The government hardly ever imposes a high enough tariff because of the needs of the consumer and so the fight goes on.
• Balancing farmer interests and fighting inflation needs the kind of strategic thinking .
• NAFED does some procurement but it is usually short of funds.
• Getting Walmart to buy farmers produce and give them space in its warehouses is far more important as an alternative supply channel.
• Prices are simultaneously rising for the consumer.
• Policymakers took credit for retail inflation falling from 4.85 per cent in July to 3.69 per cent.
• Last year it was 3.28 per cent and there is seasonality in food prices.
• The turnaround for the worse in industrial output is the most

distressing.

• If policy-making took this as a temporary hiccup and got back to the drawing board on giving industrial output the stimulus it needs.

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UPSC Prelims Questions: 

Q.1) Consider the following pairs:
Defence equipment Imported from
1. Rafale Fighter Jet : France
2. Sukhoi Fighter Jet : Russia
3. Phalcon Airborne Early Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) : Israel
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: D

UPSC Mains Questions:

Q.1) Is Rafael recognizes as a scam or just a tussle war between the political parties. Critically analyse. 
 

Outcomes versus promises

Mains Paper:  2 | International Relations
Prelims level: 2+2 Dialogue
Mains level: While Russia is seeking to cement its relationship with India, the U.S. wants India to make strategic choices 

Context 

• Russian President Vladimir Putin’s whirlwind visit to Delhi earlier this month, lasting less than 24 hours.
• It came just a month after the visits, in September, of U.S. Secretary of State Mike R. Pompeo and Defence Secretary James N. Mattis to participate in the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue with their Indian counterparts, Sushma Swaraj and Nirmala Sitharaman.
• Summit, dialogue
• The summit between the Indian Prime Minister and the Russian President is now an annual event, the protocol having been agreed upon by Mr. Putin and Manmohan Singh in 2005. 
• In the 2009 meeting between Dmitry Medvedev and Mr. Singh the log-jam in the long pending sale to India of the Russian aircraft carrier, Gorshkov (since renamed Vikramaditya) could be resolved and, in the latest instance, the inking of the $5.4 billion S-400 Triumf missile defence system. 
• The recent 2+2 Dialogue between India and the U.S., on the other hand, is a new concept, and while it has been hailed as a path-breaking event paving the way for an avalanche of state-of-the art defence equipment from the U.S..
• The outcomes from this initial meet were clearly dwarfed by what took place during Mr. Putin’s visit.

The 2+2 Dialogue

• The 2+2 Dialogue a format the U.S. employs with some of its closest allies including Japan and Australia.
• It has given the impression that India has come within the U.S. orbit of influence, detaching itself further from Russia. 
• This impression is further heightened by India signing on to the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) recently.
• However India still fancies a close relationship with Russia, one of its and most dependable allies.
• The summit’s mega missile defence deal clearly took the shine off any promises made at the 2+2 Dialogue regarding future defence acquisitions from the U.S. Russia’s S-400 Triumf, possibly the best missile defence system in the world, comes with no strings attached.
• There is no Russian equivalent of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) in place.
• The S-400 Triumf can be deployed against all enemies, irrespective of any other defence choices that India might have.

Russian steadfastness

• There were several other concrete outcomes from the Putin-Modi summit.
• India and Russia signed on to a document to expand civil nuclear energy cooperation and agreed on a second site for Russian nuclear reactors. 
• They signed a memorandum of understanding on a joint programme in the field of human space-flight, enabling Indian astronauts to be trained in Russia.
• They also agreed on the virtues of a regional security architecture to provide security to all countries in Asia and in the regions of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
• This seemed to demonstrate a clear ‘mutuality of interests’.
• The 2+2 Dialogue, for its part, marks a paradigmatic change in the nature of India-U.S. relations.
• It hence needs to be viewed, more appropriately, as the culmination of a long-standing attempt by the U.S. to woo India, something that has been in the works for some time.
• As a prelude to this, the U.S. had renamed the Asia-Pacific as the Indo-Pacific. It had blocked more than $1.5 billion in U.S. security aid to Pakistan, allotting a mere $150 million in 2019.
• U.S.-India economic cooperation was stated to have grown exponentially within two decades, with the total goods and services trade between India and U.S. increasing from $11.2 billion in 1995 to $126.2 billion in 2017.
• U.S. foreign direct investment into India substantially increased during this period. The most important bait was India being accorded the status of a ‘major defence partner’.
• The underlying theme of the 2+2 Dialogue, notwithstanding all this, seems however, aimed at forging a possible containment of China strategy, with India partnering the U.S. in this effort. 
• The U.S., at present, perceives China as posing a major challenge to its supremacy, and ‘the most significant threat to U.S. interest from a counter-intelligence perspective’.
• Whether China was specifically discussed or not in the course of the 2+2 Dialogue, it was obviously the 400-pound gorilla in the room.

A setback for U.S.

• The U.S. has obviously been preparing for this for some time, unleashing a spate of allegations against China.
• These include an implicit reference to the threat China posed to other nations in the region, including India, given that China had the second largest defence budget in the world, the largest standing army, the third largest air force, and was rapidly expanding its navy. 
• Specific mention was also made by the U.S. to the Chinese navy’s ‘anti-access’ capabilities and its ‘area denial tactics.
• It possibly intended to warn countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) like India of the growing menace posed by the Chinese navy.

Post Cold war context 

• The situation is greatly complicated by the fact that the world today faces a post-Cold War situation. 
• The rise of China’s economic power and its growing military might, and the re-emergence of Russia are significant pointers to this situation. 
• The U.S., hence, no longer holds all the cards. Additionally, many existing precepts are undergoing changes. 
• The threat to the rules-based international order today comes as much from within existing democracies.

Conclusion 

• India needs to ponder deeply on what is in its best interests. 
• It should not allow itself to be easily persuaded in the belief that democracies, by and large, offer better choices.
• It should not reject, without due consideration, what is in its best interest.
• Its decision needs to be dictated by the cold logic of circumstances. 
• Strategic ambivalence is not an answer to the situation that India faces today. 
• Strategic integrity and autonomy, and mature strategic judgment are required in a world where disruption is the order of the day.

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General Studies Pre. Cum Mains Study Materials

UPSC Prelims Questions: 

Q.1) Which among the following countries is not the member of Eurasian Economic Union?
(a) Russia
(b) Belarus
(c) Kazakhstan
(d) Ukraine

Correct Answer: D

UPSC Mains Questions:
Q.1) To what extent relationship with Russia is important for India. Crucially examine as per post cold war scenarios. 
 

Cyclones Luban and Titli

The recent occurrence of two cyclones at the two coasts, Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea cause great havoc in the region. Luban cyclone after a brief stopover, become a severe cyclone in the west-central Arabian sea. Bay of Bengal, on the other hand, get the host of cyclonic storms Titli. Both the cyclones have been put under the severe categories. 

However, landfall of cyclone Titli over the eastern coast of India is very devastating. Squally winds with speeds reaching up to 90 Km/Hour and gusting to 100 Km/Hour are likely over the deep seas of the central and adjoining North Bay of Bengal the same day. 

Damages in the Eastern Coast-

• The most severely affected state by the Titli was Odisha. The storm affected 16 out of the 30 districts of the state. 
• More than 5 million people in the state were affected. Incidents of heavy rainfall and landslides are very common during this storm period. 
• The state has also seen immense infrastructural damage, which highlights the long term economic loss that accompanies natural disasters. 
• Andhra Pradesh also faces disaster because of Titli.  

What is tropical cyclones?

• Both the cyclones Luban and Titli put under the tropical cyclone category. Tropical cyclones inherently are more devastating and causes great losses.   
• Violent storms that originate over oceans in tropical areas and more over to the coastal areas bringing about large scale destruction due to violent winds (squalls), very heavy rainfall (torrential rainfall) and storm surge.
• In tropical cyclones, Irregular wind movement involving closed circulation of air around a low pressure center occur.
• This closed circulation is the result of Coriolis force due to the rotation of the earth.  
• Wind movements are anti clockwise in northern hemisphere and clockwise in southern hemisphere. 

Origin and development of Tropical Cyclone-

• Tropical cyclones have thermal origin and they develop over tropical seas during late summers.
• At these location the strong local convection currents acquire a whirling motion because of the Coriolis force. 
• India with a long coastline of 7516.16 Km is one of the worst affected regions, where it is exposed to 10% of the tropical cyclones in the world.  

Condition of Cyclonic Disaster Preparedness and Management in India-

• India is highly vulnerable to natural disasters especially cyclones, earthquakes and landslides etc.
• According to Home Ministry, nearly 8% of the total area in India is prone of cyclones.
• Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is the nodal agency for the early warning of cyclones and floods.
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has already prepared national guidelines on management of cyclones. 
• Home Ministry has also launched National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) to upgrade the forecasting, tracking and warning about cyclones in states. 
• The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is the executing body that performs rescuing and managing relief work.

In 2016, a blueprint of National Disaster Management plan was unveiled to tackle disaster. According to plan, Ministry of Earth Science will be responsible for Disaster management of cyclones. By this plan, India has joined the list of countries which follow the Sendai framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-30.

Issues associated with Cyclone Disaster preparedness in India--

• The Indian disaster preparedness machinery largely focus over the post disaster relief works, more about management than prevention.
• Marginalized communities in the coastal regions are mostly ill-prepared and unable to cope-up with disaster.
• There is a lack of proper coordination between the central and state governments and its agencies. 
• There is also a lack of coordination between the local communities for search and rescue mission.  

Steps to be taken-

• There is a need to harmonize the national and local level disaster resilient by-laws, land use zoning, resource planning, early warning system establishments and technical competencies.
• Model of success stories like Built Back Better program of Gujarat Government after 2001 earthquake need to be inculcated.
• There is a need to move away from risk-blind approach to the risk-informed decision when comes to infrastructural projects. There is also a need for Disaster Risk Audit for future developmental project for both public and private entities. 
• Disaster management plan should be more inclusive that include women, civil society and academia. 

Way forward-

Natural phenomena are very unpredictive. What we can do is to prepare ourselves to mitigate the destructions caused by cyclones. But for that we need to come up with better technological aspirations. Strict command and coordinated structure along with the participation and cooperation of local communities are inevitable. 

Multiple Choice Question-

Q. Which of the following is/are the conditions for the formation of tropical cyclone?
1. Large sea surface with temperature higher than 27 degree.
2. A pre-existing high pressure area.
3. A high variations in the vertical wind speed.
i. Only 1
Ii. Only 1 and 2
Iii. Only 1 and 3
Iv. All the above
Answer is i 
Hint- Only 1 is correct.

Mains-

A question may be asked in GS 1 paper in geography section. There are also chances a question over disaster management from this topic itself. The format may be--
 
Q. India accounts for nearly 10% of all the tropical cyclones in the world. The country has progressed significantly in planning and managing this disaster effectively, but there still remains some drawbacks in the present situation. Comment.
 
Hint-- Here we need to put up a comprehensive view related to the topic. Start with the cyclonic situations in both the major coasts of India. Try to strengthen it with some name like Luban and Titli. In body try to mention important developments in cyclonic disaster management. Discuss major loopholes and conclude with a way forward. I have mentioned important points try to put them while writing answer.  

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Spotlight/News Analysis (20, October 2018):

UPSC IAS Mains Public Administration Solved Exam Paper - 2015

Paper - II

Time Allowed: Three Hours

Maximum Marks: 250

Section-A

Q1. Attempt all of the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50

1. “Democracy within bureaucracy is likely to reduce its effectiveness.” Do you agree with this view? Argue your case. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
2. “District Collector’s role in the development process has been overemphasized.” Comment on the statement. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
3. Why has District Planning been marginalized in many States and remained prominent in a few States? Explain. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
4. “Ordinance-making power of the Executive needs to be suitably restrained.” Examine it critically. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)
5. ‘Minimum government, maximum governance’ is not just a slogan but a philosophy of administration with enormous potentialities.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q2.

1. To what extent has political culture influenced the administrative culture of India? Explain. 20
2. Briefly discuss the main recommendations of the Punchhi Commission (2010) on Centre-State relations for transforming Indian Federal System. 20
3. As Dr. B. R. Ambedkar observed, “the text of the Constitution can provide the organs of the State, but the final outcome of the governance process depends on how it has operationalized by the political parties and people”. Elucidate the statement. 10

Answers:

A. To what extent has political culture influenced the administrative culture of India? Explain. 20

Fred W. Riggs classified social structures into three types : fused, prismatic and diffracted and outlined features of administration in each of these categories. Administration is culture-bound and shaped by the environment in which it operates.

Administration is most immediately and prominently influenced by the political culture. The nature of political culture determines the nature of administrative culture. During British raj, Indian political system was centralized, and authoritarian. Therefore, administration too, was the same.

But after independence with the change of guard , political culture became democratic, and welfare-oriented. Therefore, administration ethos too changed in course of time.

Administration also influences political culture and helps in formulating governmental policies. The administrators provide different types of expertise and suggestions to the political executive in the course of the formulation of programmes and policies . Thus, administrative and political culture interacts each other.

B. Briefly discuss the main recommendations of the Punchhi Commission (2010) on Centre-State relations for transforming Indian Federal System. 20

The Commission on Centre-State relations under the Chairmanship of Madan Mohan Punchhi looked into the new issues of Centre-State relations keeping in view the changes that have been taken place in the polity and economy of India since the Sarkaria Commission had last looked at the issue of Centre-State relations over two decades ago.

Punchhi Commission recommended that the ISC must meet at least thrice a year on an agenda evolved after proper consultation with States.

The Commission also laid out the modalities for making the ISC an effective mechanism for intergovernmental dispute resolution.

Despite repeated assertions by different Commissions, the ISC has held only 10 meetings in the last 22 years of its existence and made tardy progress in addressing inter-State disputes.

UPSC IAS Mains Previous Years Public Administration Solved Exam Paper (i) - 2016

Paper-1: Section-A

Answer the following Questions in about 150 words each:

Q.1)

a) “Taylorism is considered very controversial despite its popularity.” (Stephen P. Waring) Comment.  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

b) “Public Administration is the translation of politics into reality that citizens see everyday.”(Donald F. Kettl and James W. Fesler) Explain.  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

c) “Morale can drive an organization forward or can lead to employees” discontent, poor job performance and absenteeism”.  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

d) “The autonomy of Public Corporations raised a great debate about their internal working and external relation with the Ministers and the Parliament.”  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

e) “In spite of certain advantages, Social Audit arrangements have mostly been ineffective because there is no legal provision for punitive action.”  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q.2)

a) “Douglas McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y describe two contrasting models of workforce motivation applied by managers in an organization.” Examine.  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

b) “The New Public Administration has seriously jolted the traditional concepts and outlook of the discipline and enriched the subject by imparting wider perspective by linking it closely to the society.” (Felix A. Nigro and Lloyd G. Nigro) Elucidate. 

Discretionary power of administrative agency is the right to make reasonable decisions by choosing from among acceptable choices.  Discretionary powers are conferred on administrative agencies because administrative agencies possess expertise and specialization to deal with matters delegated by legislatures to the agencies.

When a statute provides that an administrative agency has discretionary powers, it does not allow unlimited discretion.  Discretionary power can be exercised only in accordance with the statute. Administrative agencies can discharge discretionary functions within express or implied powers allotted to agencies by legislature.  Where a statute is clear and unambiguous, administrative agencies cannot disregard the statute.  Administrative agencies are not to exceed or ignore legislative limitations imposed upon agencies’ power.  Similarly, administrative agencies are not allowed to withhold its approval or authorization when statutory conditions for approval are met.

Administrative agencies are not supposed to exceed its power while exercising discretionary powers.  An agency which has been granted discretion by statute is expected to limit its discretion based on the regulations imposed by the statute.  When the legislature has provided a clear and unambiguous law, agencies are not justified in altering, modifying, or extending the reach of law.  Administrative agencies are expected to apply just and fair discretion. These agencies should comply with established principles of justice while exercising discretion.  It would amount to abuse of discretionary power if administrative agencies act arbitrarily, carelessly, fraudulently, or without factual basis.

Q.3)

a) “if the Regulatory Commissions…..are wholly independent, they are completely irresponsible for the doing of very important policy determining and Administrative work ….. on the other hand, to rob the commissions of their independence is seriously to menace the impartial performance of their judicial work.” (Cushman) Examine.  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

b) “Good governance is ensuring respect for human rights and strengthening democracy, promoting transparency and capacity in Public Administration.” (Kofi Annan) In the light of the statement, critically examine the criteria of good governance as provided by United Nations and Nayef Al-Rodhan. (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

The United Nations is playing an increasing role in good governance. According to former UN Secretary- General Kofi Annan, "Good governance is ensuring respect for human rights and the rule of law; strengthening

c) “The legislative control over administration is not as effective as it ought to be”.  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

Q.4)

a)”Blake and Mouton defined leadership styles based on two dimensions-concern for people and concern for production.” In the light of statement, discuss the Managerial Grid Model. Explain with reason which one of the styles is the best.  (for Answer Join Public Administration Online Coaching)

The Blake Mouton Managerial Grid :

1.   Impoverished Management – Low Results/Low People

2.   Produce-or-Perish Management – High Results/Low People 

Reviewing the Competition Act

Mains Paper: 2 | Constitution 
Prelims level: Competition Act
Mains level: Network economies, virtual markets, the internet of things and the like call for a modern regulatory framework

Context 

• The Union ministry of finance has constituted a panel of experts to review the Competition Act/rules/regulations. 
• Periodic reviews of the Competition Act are important. 
• There has been no review of the current Act (2002) since its enactment. 
• The Raghavan Committee that formulated the need for a proactive competition law in lieu of the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act (MRTP), 1969, is of 1999 vintage.
• In fact, the review is overdue if the Act has to remain relevant. 

Crucial highlights about reviewing the Competition Act 

• Network economies, platforms, virtual markets, the internet of things, the increasing importance of non-tangible capital like patents.
• These call for a modern regulatory framework “in view of changing business environment” as the press release points out. 
• A few illustrations of the constraints imposed by the Act would help show how the prevailing legal framework can be a barrier when it comes to applying the economics of modern business to antitrust abuse.
• It is a major concern for the kind of globalized knowledge-based economy that India wishes to be. 
• The Raghavan Committee had highlighted competition and consumer welfare as the twin objectives of the Act, the preamble, in asserting competition and consumer interest, includes the rider, ‘keeping in view the economic development of the country”. 
• Innocuous as the statement is, it is open to interpretation in a way that protects domestic producers. 
• This is strengthened by the definition of consumer in section 2(f) of the Act. 
• The section includes both producer and the end consumer in the category of ‘consumer’ when a purchase is either for commercial use or for personal use. 
• Consequently, most cases of antitrust abuse roughly over 50%, in fact have been filed by producers. 
• To claim that these filings are on behalf of the end consumer is stretching the definition. 

Intervention in market pricing structures may end up protecting the competitor

• It has encouraged producers to ‘fire from the shoulders of the Commission’ as a strategy for meeting competition. 
• It has led to the emergence of perverse situations where ‘maximization of producer welfare’ is equated with maximization of total welfare. 
• This is against the well-established tenet of competition economics, maximization of consumer welfare. 
• As a result, pricing schemes, be they predatory or unfair pricing, (MCX-SX Vs NSE), are viewed from the perspective of a producer rather than that of the benefits/harm accruing to end consumers. 
• The optimal pricing solution is best arrived at by the interaction of demand and supply.
• The revenue model for an aggregator is from advertising. 
• Intervention in market pricing structures by the authority may end up protecting the competitor at the cost of competition. 
• To associate market power with dominance rather than look for the presence of entry barriers is a sure way to kill the emergence of business on platforms.
• Domination need not be associated with anti-competitive behaviour given the rapidly changing nature of technology where new innovation may disrupt the entire existing ecosystem.

Way forward 

• The Act defines dominance and market power in terms of the “ability to operate independently of competitive forces prevailing in the relevant market” (section 4 explanation) while section 19 (4) lists 13 factors that define dominance.
• It including any other factor the Commission wishes to consider. Seen with section 4, the operative section for ‘Abuse of Dominance’ the conditionality for market power is reduced to one of mere dominance. 
• If an enterprise is dominant, market power is considered inevitable. 
• This is dangerous for investment flows to digital markets where dominance is the norm. 
• Arguments of dominance ultimately depend on defining the ‘relevant market’ of antitrust abuse. 
• The relevant market (product) is with reference to substitutability or inter-changeability in terms of characteristics, their prices and intended use (section 2(t)). 

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UPSC Prelims Questions: 

Q.1) Which of the following is/are administered by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs?
1. Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016
2. Competition Act, 2002
3. Companies Act, 2013
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D

UPSC Mains Questions:
Q.1) Is a detailed Act necessary when business conditions are so fluid?
 

Amritsar disaster: avoidable tragedy

Mains Paper: 2 | Governance 
Prelims level: Amritsar disaster
Mains level: Responsibility must be fixed for the Amritsar disaster. Political spats won’t help 

Context 

• The ghastly Dasara disaster at Amritsar that has left 59 people dead is a harsh reminder, if any were needed, that government departments have not yet taken official protocols for safety at mass gatherings seriously.
• In the aftermath of the entirely preventable carnage, in which spectators crowding a railway track to watch burning of effigies were mowed down by a train.
• There is a frantic effort to pin responsibility on agencies and individuals, and, deplorably, to exploit public anger for political ends.
• Amritsar points to the basic failure of the district administration and the police, which should have ensured law and order.
• If the organisers of the event had obtained a no-objection certificate from the police, as reports suggest, what role did the law enforcement machinery play in crowd control?
• The Municipal Corporation in Amritsar has tried to distance itself, claiming that its permission was not sought, although almost everyone in the city knew it was taking place. 
• The magisterial inquiry ordered by the Punjab government should examine the actions of the revenue authorities and the police in organising the event, and whether rules were ignored to favour the organisers who claimed proximity to some politicians. 

Analysing the history 

• Major religious festivals in India are often overshadowed by deadly incidents such as stampedes and fires.
• The National Disaster Management Authority has responded to these horrors by creating a guide for State governments and local bodies, laying down a clear protocol to be followed for mass gatherings and festivals. 
• Whether this was followed by the Amritsar authorities in the planning of the Dasara celebrations is one of the questions that must be addressed. 
• There should be a transformation of the way such events are organised, with a lead agency in each State and district empowered to issue instructions, and in turn be accountable for public safety.
• There is a serious deficit of common spaces in cities, towns and villages to conduct spectacular events safely. 
• This is incongruous in a populous country with a tradition of festivals and cultural gatherings. 

Way forward 

• The Punjab government, wiser after the fact, says it will draw up guidelines for the future. At Amritsar, trespass on the track was the prime reason for the accident.
• A campaign to educate the public that railway tracks cannot be treated as commons, and vigorous enforcement, will reduce the probability of such incidents. 
• The Railways must identify hazard spots for train movement in heavily built-up areas and prevent trespass by barricading them. A culture of safety can take root if governments imbibe it first. 

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UPSC Prelims Questions: 

Q.1) Consider the following statements regarding Amritsar declaration. It’s about 

A.    The delegates from nearly 40 countries and leading groupings like EU participated in conference.  Indian delegation was led by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.
B.    The theme of this edition of the conference was “Addressing Challenges, Achieving Prosperity.
C.    The three big issues of the conference were (i) countering terrorism to create stability in Afghanistan, (ii) Providing Afghanistan connectivity to strengthen economic activities and (iii) the development which is essential for its progress.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only

Answer: B

UPSC Mains Questions:
Q.1) To what extent governments are responsible for Amritsar Disaster. Give your arguments in the answer.

We have failed our children

Mains Paper: 2 | Social Justice 
Prelims level: Human Capital Index
Mains level: While ‘Right to Education’ vastly expanded enrolment of children, not enough attention was paid to the quality of the schools, the teachers and the instruction. 

Context 

• According to some surveys, most people living in India report that they are happy. 
• The sense of contentment is despite the fact that jobs are scarce, the air is polluted, the water is unfit for drinking, the roads (except select national highways) are terrible, the law and order situation is alarming, and mob violence and mob justice seem to be the new normal.
• In approximately 49 crore children born and living in India who can claim a birth year in the 21st century.

Education and Health

• The World Bank publishes the World Development Report every year. 
• The 2019 report has constructed the HCI for 157 countries. 
• It is a measure of “the amount of human capital that a child born today can expect to attain by age 18”. 
• The index is measured in terms of the productivity of the next generation of workers relative to the benchmark of complete education and full health. 
• An economy in which a child born today can expect to achieve complete education and full health will score a value of 1 on the index.”

Crucial highlights about the data 

• Singapore occupies the first rank with an HCI of 0.88.
• The first 10 countries score over 0.80. They are Singapore, Republic of Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Finland, Ireland, Australia, Sweden, the Netherlands and Canada. 
• The ranks of the Big Five are good but not great: the United Kingdom (HCI 0.78) is at 15, France (0.76) at 22, the United States (0.76) at 24, Russia (0.73) at 34 and China (0.67) at 46.
• Ninety-six out of the 157 countries have an HCI score of over 0.51, which is a measure of the progress made by humankind as a whole.

Head Buried in Sand

• Among the remaining 61 countries that have an HCI of 0.50 or lower is India.
• India’s HCI is 0.44 and rank is 115. 
• That places India in the bottom third of the world. 
• The Government of India has decided to ignore the HCI and will continue to undertake its pathbreaking programme for human capital development aiming to rapidly transform quality and ease of life for all children.
• Nobody has accused the NDA government of being solely responsible for the low HCI. 
• All governments since Independence bear responsibility. What upset me is the unwillingness to admit to the shortcomings.
• The HCI is not a number plucked out of the air. It is based on six factors, each getting a score. In the case of India, given the average household income, the probability of a child surviving to the age of 5 is satisfactory at 0.96. The adult survival rate is reasonable at 0.83.
• What pulls India down are the ‘Learning adjusted years of school’ and ‘Fraction of children under 5 not stunted’. The score on the former is 5.8 years at school. On the latter, it is 0.62, meaning that 38 per cent of children under 5 years of age have a low height-for-age.

Cruel Negligence

• The HCI must be read along with the Global Hunger Index (GHI) published by Deutsche Welthungerhilfe and Concern Worldwide.
• One out of seven children in India is undernourished; two out of five are stunted (low height-for-age); and one out of five is wasted (low weight-for-height). 
• The cause is undernutrition. On the one hand we have mountains of wheat and paddy and, on the other, we are unable to provide enough food to each child. 
• At the prodding of the National Advisory Council, the UPA acknowledged the need for State intervention and devised the MGNREGA and the Right to Food Security law. 
• The result is low HCI, high GHI (score 31.1, indicating ‘serious hunger’) and a low rank of 139 among 189 countries in the Human Development Index.

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UPSC Prelims Questions: 

Q.1) Consider the following statements with reference to Global Human Capital Index:
1. The index captures the full human capital potential profile of a country among five distinct age groups.
2. India ranks lowest among the BRICS countries.
3. It is released by World Economic Forum.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D

UPSC Mains Questions:
Q.1) While ‘Right to Education’ vastly expanded enrolment of children, not enough attention was paid to the quality of the schools, the teachers and the instruction. Critically examine the statement.