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.
Despite the government encouraging open source instead of proprietary technology for government applications, the true potential of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) and digital platforms remains unrealized. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
E-GovernanceTransparency and Accountability
Do you agree with the view that adopting a framework for lobbying will strengthen participative governance and ease of doing business in India?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Pressure Groups and AssociationsTransparency and Accountability
Has the use of technology aided in ensuring free and fair elections in India? Elaborate.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Elections and RepresentationE-Governance
Critically examine the 'in-house procedure' adopted by the Apex Court to inquire into allegations of misconduct against judges of constitutional courts in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
JudiciaryTransparency and Accountability
"India's poverty lies in the eyes of the beholder." In light of this statement, examine the need for a credible and periodically updated poverty estimation framework in the country.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Poverty and HungerPolicy Design and Implementation
There is an urgent need for effective whistle-blowing mechanisms and ensuring that necessary safeguards for the protection of whistle-blowers are established in both public and private spheres in India. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Transparency and AccountabilityCorruption and Probity
The presence of Vigilant Opposition is necessary not just for a vibrant democracy but for its very survival. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
The profound impact of the data revolution and widespread smartphone usage has necessitated the use of digital tools in welfare programmes. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
E-GovernanceWelfare Schemes
"An independent judiciary is essential for upholding constitutional values, but it must also remain accountable to preserve public trust." Discuss in the context of recent issues.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
JudiciarySeparation of Powers
The evolution of e-governance from mere information to transformation is critically based on the pillar of technology. In this context, analyze how the usage of technology in governance has facilitated effective public service delivery?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
E-GovernanceTransparency and Accountability
“The quality of governance is critically linked to the extent and nature of citizen participation in democratic processes.” Discuss using examples in the Indian context.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Transparency and AccountabilityPolicy Design and Implementation
Though lifeblood of a representative democracy, political parties are beset with challenges of their own, limiting their larger role in democratization of the society.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2024
Elections and RepresentationPressure Groups and Associations
"The complexity of modern governance demands adaptive and dynamic administrative reforms." Evaluate the role of administrative reforms in improving efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in Indian governance.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Transparency and AccountabilityCivil Services
Recent controversies over alleged malpractices in the electoral rolls have renewed demands for the mandatory linkage of Aadhaar with Voter ID. What is your opinion? Give reasons in support of your answer.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Elections and RepresentationTransparency and Accountability
'Satisfactory and timely redressal of grievances is the cornerstone of 'minimum government, maximum governance'. In this context discuss the challenges associated with current grievance redress mechanisms and suggest measures to strengthen the process.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Transparency and AccountabilityCitizen Charters and Grievance Redress
Examine the key mechanisms available to the Indian Parliament to scrutinise the executive. What are the major gaps in these mechanisms, and how can they be strengthened to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
"Lokpal is not a panacea, but a vital step towards ensuring accountability in public life." In this context, discuss the significance of the institution of Lokpal, along with the limitations it faces.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesCorruption and Probity
“Transparency and openness are the main pillars of good governance”. In this context, examine the functioning of Central Information Commission. Also, suggest remedial measures to augment their functioning.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2022
Transparency and AccountabilityStatutory and Regulatory Bodies
Have the NGOs acted as 'drivers of change' in the Indian democracy? Illustrate with examples, the barriers that impact the efficient functioning of NGOs in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2022
NGOs, SHGs and Civil SocietyTransparency and Accountability
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) allows for innovative and convenient public services, help overcome inclusion or accessibility barriers, and increase transparency and accountability with real-time data. Discuss with examples.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
E-GovernanceTransparency and Accountability
With suitable examples, discuss how environmental pressure groups enhance public participation and responsiveness with regard to environmental policies in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Pressure Groups and AssociationsPolicy Design and Implementation
"Civil services in India were envisioned as instruments of neutrality and efficiency, yet they are increasingly perceived as rigid and politicised." Examine the issues responsible for this perception and suggest corrective measures.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Civil ServicesCorruption and Probity
As per the recently released report of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), there is an urgent need to limit the size of the government in India. Do you agree?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ExecutivePolicy Design and Implementation
Outcome-based finance models such as social impact bonds have the potential to truly catalyse change and deliver socio-economic impact at scale. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Policy Design and ImplementationNGOs, SHGs and Civil Society
The role of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) is significant in furthering healthy competitiveness aimed at inspiring stakeholders to innovate and augment effectiveness. Comment.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesTransparency and Accountability
An up to date and functional Civil Registration System (CRS) is essential to the socio-economic planning in India. Discuss in the light of the recent move of the Central government in revamping the CRS system in the country.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Transparency and AccountabilityPolicy Design and Implementation
"The collegium system has become a victim of its own success, with the concentration of power in the hands of a few, leading to questions about its legitimacy." Comment.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
JudiciarySeparation of Powers
"Weak institutional independence of Information Commissions has diluted the effectiveness of the Right to Information (RTI) regime." Discuss in the light of autonomy and independence of the Information Commissions.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesTransparency and Accountability
"The increasing regulatory oversight on civil society organisations risks shrinking democratic space." Examine.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
NGOs, SHGs and Civil SocietyTransparency and Accountability
In post-liberalized India, independent regulators were established to ensure fair competition and transparency. To what extent have independent regulators been effective in their mandates and discuss the impact of government influence on their autonomy.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesTransparency and Accountability