UPSC Mains 2013

The concept of Mid Day Meal (MDM) scheme is almost a century old in India with its early beginnings in Madras Presidency in pre-independent India. The scheme has again been given impetus in most states in the last two decades. Critically examine its twin objectives, latest mandates and success.

'A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immo-rality in public affairs'. Discuss.

The legitimacy and accountability of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and their patrons, the micro-finance outfits, need systematic assessment and scrutiny for the sustained success of the concept. Discuss.

Electronic cash transfer system for the welfare schemes is an ambitious project to minimize corruption, eliminate wastage and facilitate reforms. Comment.

What is meant by Gujral doctrine? Does it have any relevance today? Discuss.

Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process inadequacy or both? Discuss.

The product diversification of financial institutions and insurance companies, result-ing in overlapping of products and services strengthens the case for the merger of the two regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA. Justify.

The Central Government frequently complains on the poor performance of the State Governments in eradicating suffering of the vulnerable sections of the society. Restructuring of Centrally sponsored schemes across the sectors for ameliorating the cause of vulnerable sections of population aims at providing flexibility to the States in better implementation. Critically evaluate.

Economic ties between India and Japan, while growing in recent years, are still far below their potential. Elucidate the policy constraints which are inhibiting this growth.

The basis of providing urban amenities in rural areas (PURA) is rooted in establishing connectivity. Comment.

Pressure group politics is sometimes seen as the informal face of politics. With re-gard to the above, assess the structure and functioning of pressure groups in India.

What do you understand by 'The String of Pearls'? How does it impact India? Briefly outline the steps taken by India to counter this.

The proposed withdrawal of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) from Afghanistan in 2014 is fraught with major security implications for the countries of the region. Examine in light of the fact that India is faced with a plethora of challenges and needs to safeguard its own strategic interests.

Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health. Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same.

Though Citizen's charters have been formulated by many public service delivery organizations, there is no corresponding improvement in the level of citizens' satis-faction and quality of services being provided. Analyze.

Discuss Section 66A of IT Act, with reference to its alleged violation of Article 19 of the Constitution.

The Supreme Court of India keeps a check on arbitrary power of the Parliament in amending the Constitution. Discuss critically.

Recent directives from Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas are perceived by the 'Nagas' as a threat to override the exceptional status enjoyed by the State. Discuss in light of Article 371A of the Indian Constitution.

Many State Governments further bifurcate geographical administrative areas like Districts and Talukas for better governance. In light of the above, can it also be justified that more number of smaller States would bring in effective governance at State level? Discuss.

In respect of India-Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy.