GS2 · Topic
Transparency and Accountability
RTI, audit, whistleblowing and the institutions that enforce answerability.
241 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Transparency and Accountability that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
Explain various components of e-Prisons in India? Discuss the significance of e-Prisons to Criminal Justice System.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
E-GovernanceTransparency and Accountability
Despite being a non-constitutional body, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has wielded immense decision-making power in India. Discuss the advantages and issues associated with it.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
ExecutiveSeparation of Powers
Recently, demand has been rising in a state regarding enactment of Social Accountability law. How can such a law lead to good governance and boost citizens participation in decision-making? There is a need for convergence of "nutrition-specific" and "nutrition-sensitive" interventions to effectively tackle child undernutrition in India. Examine.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Transparency and AccountabilityPolicy Design and Implementation
Discuss the statutory basis, jurisdiction, and functions of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in India. Critically analyze the challenges to its autonomy and effectiveness.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesTransparency and Accountability
The Right to Information Act has played a significant role in promoting transparency and accountability in Indian governance, but it faces challenges in its implementation. Analyse. (10M)
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Transparency and Accountability
Social Audit Institutions, have the real potential to enhance accountability and align public services to citizens' needs. Critically Analyse.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Transparency and Accountability
“Engaging the community in the implementation of projects/programmes is a useful way to generate higher levels of acceptance, trust and accountability, eventually resulting in the sustainability of the initiative”. Illustrate with suitable examples.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Policy Design and ImplementationTransparency and Accountability
Neo-Liberal reforms and globalization have deeply transformed institutions of welfare state and set the ground for a new type of civil services". In this context, examine challenges faced in service delivery and suggest reforms.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Civil ServicesPolicy Design and Implementation
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) is more than just the keeper of our national accounts; it is also a conscience-keeper and a watchdog. Examine the statement in light of making the auditing process more effective.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Constitutional BodiesTransparency and Accountability
Capture of social welfare benefits can be obviated only when political systems are transparent and there is a free flow of information. Do you agree? Give reasons using suitable examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Transparency and AccountabilityWelfare Schemes
"Parliamentary democracy would be incomplete without Parliamentary committees." In light of the statement, examine the role of the Public Accounts Committee in establishing financial accountability of the executive.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
Subordination of investigative agencies to the executive is fraught with disastrous consequences. Discuss the statement in light of the criticism of the Central Bureau of Investigation as a "caged parrot".
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesTransparency and Accountability
Highlight the need for the creation of an independent umbrella authority for Central investigation agencies. Do you think it will solve the concerns associated with status of 'caged parrot' of CBI?
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesJudiciary
How can civil society activities and public participation in governments' decision-making, reduce corruption?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Transparency and AccountabilityCorruption and Probity
Bringing out the differences between political parties and pressure groups, discuss how pressure groups play an important role in improving governance and democratic processes in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Pressure Groups and AssociationsTransparency and Accountability
Critically discuss the social media rules brought in by the IT ministry.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesTransparency and Accountability
"The shift from 'government' to 'governance' has created a complex network of actors, but not necessarily accountability." Critically evaluate this statement in the Indian context.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Transparency and AccountabilityE-Governance
Discuss the role of parliamentary committees in ensuring financial accountability of the executive.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
'Technology serves as the catalyst for reshaping the traditional contours of bureaucracy, propelling it to become more efficient, transparent, and citizen-centric.' Explain and also explore how the integration of technology can expedite governmental efforts aimed at modernizing the civil service.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
E-GovernanceTransparency and Accountability
Analyze the evolving landscape of pressure groups and lobbying in the digital age, considering their strategies, reach, and influence on policy decisions. Assess the ethical dilemmas posed by this transformation and its implications for democratic accountability and governance.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Pressure Groups and AssociationsTransparency and Accountability
It is widely agreed that there is a governance deficit in India when compared with other countries at similar levels of development. In this context, discuss the key governance challenges and what can be done to address them.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Transparency and AccountabilityPolicy Design and Implementation
Mutual comity and respect between social media intermediaries and national governments are necessary to democratize cyberpolitics in the interest of users. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Transparency and AccountabilityE-Governance
Recently demand has been rising for Social Accountability law and boost citizen's participation in decision making. How such a law can lead to good governance? Comment.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Transparency and AccountabilityCitizen Charters and Grievance Redress
How do Self-Help Groups (SHGs) contribute to participatory governance in India?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
NGOs, SHGs and Civil SocietyLocal Government
The true test of good governance is the degree to which it ensures accountability towards citizens and the promise of sustainable and inclusive human development. Discuss in the context of challenges to good governance in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Transparency and AccountabilityPolicy Design and Implementation
The concern for transparency in political funding is at odds with the Electoral Bond Scheme notified by the government. Critically discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Elections and RepresentationTransparency and Accountability
A democracy is just as credible as the strength of the institutions fundamental to its legitimacy. Assess the role of the Central Bureau of the Investigation (CBI) in this context.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesCorruption and Probity
The principles of accountability and participation are vital to ensure the smooth implementation of welfare schemes, ensuring their success in reaching the last mile. Examine.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Policy Design and ImplementationTransparency and Accountability
The Right to Information Act has played a significant role in promoting transparency and accountability in Indian governance, but it faces challenges in its implementation. Analyse.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Transparency and Accountability
Define the term 'Public Policy'. How are they formulated, implemented, and evaluated in the context of new-age governance?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Policy Design and ImplementationTransparency and Accountability