GS4 · 20 marks · 250 words
The ministry of health appointed an expert team to conduct epidemiological study on the health of 1,000 agricultural workers to know the impact of pesticide exposure on health. The study finds that there are adverse impacts on the health of agricultural workers such as the possibility of skin cancer. The report finds its way in media which result into public outcry. However, the ministry rejects the findings of the team as it does not find satisfactory. The ministry of environment has requested the ministry of health not to disclose the findings unless it carries its own study to verify the facts as its expansion plan for genetically modified seeds may get affected. An RTI activist applies for information to PIO of ministry of health. Now, the PIO is in dilemma what he should do? So far, the PIO has a good record of disclosing information for which he has been recently appreciated. Suppose you are the PIO then discuss the merits and demerits of the following options and choose the most appropriate one, giving reasons. (a) The PIO should consult the higher authority and act as per the advice. (b) The PIO should refuse to disclose the information as it is sensitive and can create law and order problem. (c) The PIO should partially disclose the information which is not related to the adverse impact on health. (d) The PIO should disclose the complete information to maintain his good record.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2016
Syllabus: Case Studies on above issues.
How toppers approached it
From the one answer · about 350 words.
Opening
- No separate opening1 of 1
Body
- Points1 of 1
Close
- No separate close1 of 1
The toppers’ answers
More on Transparency and Information
Information sharing and transparency in government, the Right to Information, and the limits of disclosure.
- Enumerate the mechanisms that promote accountability of public officials in discharging their functions and responsibilities in India. Also discuss why ensuring accountability for performance is not a simple task in government service.19 answers
- Increasing participation of people in governance and easy access to information is what transforms governance to good governance. Elaborate.15 answers
- Undercover journalism exposes injustices, negligence, corruption and wrongdoing and yet going undercover to expose wrongdoing remains controversial. But, undercover journalists contend that they are fulfilling a fundamental duty of finding truth through their journalism. They argue that public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy and the duty of the journalist is to further those ends by seeking truth and providing a fair and comprehensive account of events and issues. So, there are some supporters of this kind of journalism, which sometimes infringe the privacy of individuals. However, some journalists also urge avoiding surreptitious methods of gathering information except when traditional open methods will not yield information vital to the public. In this context, answer the following questions: 20 (a) What are the ethical issues involved in the practice of undercover journalism? (b) Do you support the practice of undercover investigation by journalists? Give reasons in support of your answer.14 answers
- It is imperative for a country like India, that code of ethics should be implemented for civil servants on social media platforms as well. Discuss.13 answers
- Discuss how effective corporate governance can ensure the equitable treatment of all stakeholders.13 answers