UPSC Mains 2021

"If the last few decades were of Asia's growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa's." In the light of this statement, examine India's influence in Africa in recent years.

'Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal.' Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu?

To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India?

Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations.

Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protec-tion of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures.

Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India?

Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.

"Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India." Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies.

'Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.' Analyse.(150 words)

The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China's ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario.

'Earn while you learn' scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational education and skill training meaningful." Comment. (150 words)

"The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union." Explain.

Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic develop- ment? Examine with justification.

Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.

How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position?

Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.

Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitu- tions of the USA and India.

'Constitutional Morality' is rooted in the Constitution itself and is founded on its essential facets. Explain the doctrine of 'Constitutional Morality' with the help of relevant judicial decisions.

Do Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples.

The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular State is being questioned by various States. However, the power of the States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India.