AIR 280 · CSE 2023 · GS2 · 27 pages

Ananya Rana: GS2 answer copy

10 answers by Ananya Rana, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1"One of the mandates of NITI Aayog is to promote competitive and cooperative federalism among States and UTs." In this context, evaluate the role of NITI Aayog in strengthening cooperative federalism and encouraging innovation in policy making since 2015.10 marks
  2. Q2Examine the structure and jurisdiction of courts in the United States and India. How do the contempt powers of courts differ in both countries?10 marks
  3. Q3"Universal basic services and targeted welfare are fiscally sound, but competitive populism may hinder productive investment." In this context, highlight the constitutional and legal perspectives on welfare provisioning and discuss the impacts of the rising freebie culture.10 marks
  4. Q4The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India. Discuss.10 marks
  5. Q5"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
  6. Q6"Municipal corporations are key to urban governance, yet states often show reluctance to empower them functionally and financially". In this context, examine the key challenges faced by municipal corporations and suggest measures for a paradigm shift in urban local governance.15 marks
  7. Q7Discuss the constitutional provisions governing the imposition of President's Rule in India and its significance within the federal framework. Examine the challenges and criticisms related to its misuse. Mention key Supreme Court observations that have shaped the constitutional understanding of President's Rule.15 marks
  8. Q8"Delay in disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law weakens governance and undermines democratic stability." Discuss the provisions of the Anti-Defection Law and the role of the Speaker in its implementation. How does the delay in disqualification affect governance? Suggest reforms needed to strengthen the law.15 marks
  9. Q9Examine 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
  10. Q10"The powers of the Governor, particularly with respect to state bills, have sparked recurring tensions between the Centre and the States." Discuss the constitutional powers of the Governor in this regard. Highlight the key concerns arising out of the Governor's role in the legislative process. What reforms can help address the Governor-State disputes? Refer to the case laws.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 216 words written

"One of the mandates of NITI Aayog is to promote competitive and cooperative federalism among States and UTs." In this context, evaluate the role of NITI Aayog in strengthening cooperative federalism and encouraging innovation in policy making since 2015.

Opening · a definition

NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is a non-constitutional and non-statutory body established in 2015 by an executive order to act as a think tank and drive India's path to progress.

Body · points and prose

Diagram
Organisational structure of NITI / | \ Headed Consists of DMEO as by PM as 'Team India' evaluating its wing and chairperson monitoring unit Administrative Head is CEO

Role of NITI Aayog in strengthening cooperative federalism and innovation in policy making

AchievementsChallenges
1. Synergy between Union and State1. Only an advisory body with no financial control
2. Implementation of Ayushman Bharat Yojana
2. Progressive stance based on competition2. Not very successful in bringing Centre and states at same level
eg LEADS India Indexeg Opposition ruled states
3. Expertise on issues of national development3. Allegations of outsourcing of experts
eg Green Energy innovation4. Frequent collaborations with foreign players
4. Strategies for future4. Lack of actionable inputs to improve parameters.
eg India @ 75 report
5. Innovation driven ecosystem5. Inadequate results obtained on ground.
eg AI for All

"Trust-based governance is key to development" - Economic Survey (2024)

Close · a way forward

NITI Aayog can act as a vehicle of inclusive development by strengthening its role as institution of trust and credibility.