AIR 5 · CSE 2025 · GS4 · 58 pages

Ishan Bhatnagar: GS4 answer copy

21 answers by Ishan Bhatnagar, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

Q1(a)The increasing use of digital surveillance technologies for maintaining law and order is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view.10 marks
Q1(b)Knowledge and skills are important, but they must be grounded in ethical principles for true success. In this context, discuss the importance of ethics in education and the role of educational institutions in imparting ethical values.10 marks
Q2(a)How does persuasion help achieve a desired change in attitude? What are the elements of an effective persuasive approach?10 marks
Q2(b)While scientific research drives technological progress and societal development, its funding often raises ethical questions. What ethical concerns arise from corporate sponsorship of scientific research, and how can these be addressed?10 marks
Q3Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of these quotations convey to you in the present context? a) “Where do the evils like corruption arise from? It comes from the never-ending greed. The fight for corruption-free ethical society will have to be fought against this greed and replace it with ‘what can I give’ spirit.” - A.P.J. Abdul Kalam10 marks
Q3(b)"The greatest glory in living lies not in never failing, but in rising every time we fail."- Nelson Mandela10 marks
Q3(c)"Your goodness is an impediment in your way, so let your eyes be red with anger, and try to fight the injustice with a firm hand."- Sardar Patel10 marks
Q4(a)What do you understand by the term "Conflict of Interest"? How does it manifest in the decision making by public servants? In what ways can it be minimized?10 marks
Q4(b)"In post-conflict rehabilitation, the pursuit of justice must be balanced with the need for reconciliation." Examine this statement in the context of addressing ethnic violence.10 marks
Q5(a)In the ever-evolving landscape of academic institutions, administrators must not only manage academic issues but also emotional and interpersonal dynamics. In this context, discuss the significance of emotionally intelligent administrators in higher education.10 marks
Q5(b)"The recognition of the horrors of nuclear weapons should compel nations to move towards meaningful disarmament. However, geopolitical interests continue to hinder genuine progress in this direction. What are the ethical considerations of nuclear states to pursue global disarmament, and how can the international community balance security concerns with the moral imperative of a nuclear-free world?10 marks
Q6(a)"Probity in governance is an essential and vital requirement for an efficient and effective system of governance and for socio-economic development." Discuss the statement with examples.10 marks
Q6(b)How can responsible and informed social media use be nurtured among children to make the internet a safer space for them?10 marks
Q7Arushi is a young IPS officer known for her competence, integrity, and relentless dedication to challenging tasks. Recognizing her excellent track record, her superiors have chosen her to handle a sensitive assignment in a tribal-dominated district notorious for illegal bauxite mining. Here, the mafia mines bauxite from mineral-rich lands, transports it by truck, and sells it on the black market. This illegal operation thrives with the support of certain local officials and tribal musclemen who intimidate the local population and bribe select poor tribals to maintain control and silence. Upon assuming the new role, Arushi quickly grasps the ground realities and identifies the mafia's modus operandi, characterized by a series of devious tactics. Her inquiries reveal that several employees in her office are colluding with the mafia, forming an unholy nexus that enables these illegal operations. Determined to dismantle this network, she initiates strict actions, including raids on trucks transporting illegally mined bauxite. These actions significantly disrupt the mafia's operations, unsettling criminals unaccustomed to such resistance. Some office employees allegedly allied with the mafia inform the criminals of her determination to dismantle their operations, posing a serious threat to their profits. In response, the mafia adopts a counter-offensive strategy. Tribal strongmen and mafia operatives begin issuing direct threats to her, warning of severe consequences if the raids continue. Her family (husband and elderly mother) are stalked and placed under virtual surveillance, causing mental anguish and stress for them all. Matters assume serious propositions when a muscleman appears in her office and threatens that if she does not halt raids, etc., she will suffer the same fate as a predecessor officer who was killed by the mafia a decade earlier. a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case. b) Identify and evaluate the different options available to Arushi under the given situation. c) Which option should she adopt and why?20 marks
Q8The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) is proposed on a river in a northeastern state of India, a recognized biodiversity hotspot. Covered in dense forests, this region harbors a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including numerous endemic species. Although sparsely populated, the region's communities have livelihoods and cultural practices deeply intertwined with the natural landscape. Its ecological wealth has been preserved over the years due to its environmental significance and cultural heritage. Additionally, the Upper Siang basin holds immense strategic importance due to its proximity to international borders, offering potential leverage in regional security and resource management. The SUMP aims to harness the river's energy for economic growth, proposing infrastructure that includes an 11,000 MW "mega dam," power stations, and transmission lines that could transform the state into a renewable energy hub. Proponents argue that the project will boost the state's economy through power generation, employment, and enhanced infrastructure while also helping meet the country's clean energy targets. However, a local NGO has raised concerns about the ecological and social costs of SUMP. The project would require extensive forest clearance, which plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration. Additionally, experts warn that construction activities could disturb the region's delicate ecosystems. This may affect riverine biodiversity and increase the risk of soil erosion and sedimentation, with potential downstream effects on agriculture and water quality. Another major issue raised is the potential displacement and cultural impact on local communities. This could threaten their subsistence-based livelihoods and disrupt their way of life. Critics also highlight that the project may contradict India's commitments to sustainable development. Despite these concerns, supporters of the project argue that SUMP's strategic importance and clean energy potential cannot be ignored. Moreover, they emphasize the project's strategic location, which would strengthen energy security, reduce regional inequalities, and contribute to the country's long-term development goals. They argue that amidst rising energy demands, the country cannot afford to forgo such an opportunity, especially given the presence of hydroelectric projects across borders that could shift regional control over water resources. (a) What are the ethical issues involved in the above case? (b) In your opinion, which should take priority between development and conservation, and why?20 marks
Q8(a)(a) उपर्युक्त परिस्थिति में शामिल नैतिक मुद्दों का वर्णन कीजिए?20 marks
Q8(b)(a) उपर्युक्त परिस्थिति में शामिल नैतिक मुद्दों का वर्णन कीजिए? (b) आपकी राय में विकास और संरक्षण में से किसे प्राथमिकता दी जानी चाहिए और क्यों?20 marks
Q9Inside a busy city administration office, Joint Municipal Commissioner Keerthi, who also serves as the Public Information Officer (PIO), faces a challenging situation. Recently, an RTI application has been received, demanding details about public infrastructure projects initiated during her tenure. Upon reviewing the requested information, Keerthi discovers that certain decisions made regarding these projects were not entirely sound in hindsight. These decisions, although taken in good faith and after due diligence, failed to realize promised outcomes. There were other employees who were party to this decision. The disclosure of this information could potentially lead to scrutiny and backlash against herself, the employees, and contractors involved. Known for her integrity and commitment to public service, Keerthi finds herself at a crossroads. The RTI Act has served as a critical check against administrative arbitrariness, ensuring transparency and accountability. However, she also observes a troubling trend. RTI applications are often used by vested interests and activists seeking personal gain rather than genuine public interest. Some activists even resort to threats or extortion tactics, undermining the integrity of the RTI process. She fears the requested RTI information could be similarly exploited. Moreover, the employees involved are requesting her to withhold the information. In navigating this situation, Keerthi weighs her options carefully. (a) Critically examine the options available to Keerthi in the above situation. (b) Which of the above would be the most appropriate for Keerthi and why?20 marks
Q10Littering at popular tourist destinations has become a significant environmental and ethical concern in India. A recent incident highlighted this issue when tourists were observed throwing tissue papers and a cake box on the road after celebrating a birthday. When a local politely requested them to use a nearby dustbin just 5 feet away, the tourists dismissed the appeal, claiming no dustbin was available. The situation escalated when their driver threw a plastic bag into the adjacent valley. Public reactions to the incident were divided. Some individuals commended the intervention as an effort to promote civic responsibility, emphasizing the need to protect fragile ecosystems like hill stations. Many argued that tourists must adhere to basic environmental ethics and that public spaces are a shared responsibility. Critics also highlighted the broader implications of such irresponsible behavior on the environment and local livelihoods. On the other hand, the tourists involved accused those intervening of interfering in their personal affairs, claiming their privacy was being violated. The argument that the tourists were being publicly shamed through the viral video added another layer to the ethical debate. Many questioned whether posting such incidents online, even for a social cause, was appropriate or necessary. The debate continues, with one side emphasizing the collective responsibility to preserve public spaces and the environment, while the other raises concerns about individual privacy and autonomy. (a) What are the ethical concerns associated with tourists littering at public destinations? (b) How can ethical tourism practices be integrated into policies to address issues like littering at tourist destinations? (c) Suggest a course of action that balances environmental responsibility and individual rights. Justify your answer.20 marks
Q11You are the Operations Manager at a fast-growing technology startup, NexGen Solutions, known for its innovative projects and timely delivery. The startup's environment is fast-paced, with tight deadlines and high expectations from clients and investors. Your current project, creating a cutting-edge AI based application, is critical for securing upcoming funding and partnerships. Your small, capable team includes four software developers and two project coordinators, with an equal number of men and women. Recently, the team has encountered major challenges. Priya, one of the female developers, has requested leave to care for her ailing mother. Meanwhile, another team member, Ayesha, is struggling to manage her workload along with caring for her infant child. As a result, other team members have taken on extra tasks, impacting their work-life balance and causing heightened stress. With the project deadline looming, tensions in the team have become visible. During a crucial project meeting, Karan, a senior developer, voices his frustration, saying, "Perhaps it's not ideal to have team members who can't fully commit during critical stages." Karan's remark triggers an immediate reaction. Neha, a project coordinator, finds his comment offensive and reports it to the Human Resources (HR) Department. She also hints that she might bring the issue to social media, which could harm the startup's image. The HR Department, located at the company's headquarters, investigates and recommends disciplinary action against Karan, emphasizing the importance of a respectful, inclusive workplace. Their recommendation puts you in a difficult situation. The project is already delayed, and losing a senior developer like Karan could jeopardize its timely completion. You are now faced with a complex dilemma. On one hand, it's vital to address the inappropriate comment and ensure a respectful work culture. On the other hand, you must keep the project on track without further demotivating your team. (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case. (b) As the Operations Manager, how would you deal with the given situation? (c) Based on the case study, discuss the challenges faced by women at workplace. How can such challenges be addressed?20 marks
Q12Prateek Kumar, the Project Manager, is in charge of the construction of a highly anticipated highway that is expected to drive regional development. The project aims to enhance connectivity, boost trade, and create substantial employment opportunities. Given its importance, it has become a focal point for the ruling party, which is actively promoting it as a symbol of progress ahead of the upcoming state elections next year. The timely completion of the highway is crucial, as the Chief Minister is scheduled to inaugurate it upon completion. This has led to added pressure on Prateek and his team to meet the approaching deadline, which is set for next month. During a routine inspection, Prateek discovers that a particular stretch of the highway has been built with substandard materials. This section fails to meet the required safety and durability standards, posing a serious threat to public safety and lives. If left unresolved, the compromised quality could lead to accidents, undermining both the project's credibility and the government's promises for safe and reliable infrastructure. Concerned, Prateek raises the issue with the contractor, but the contractor downplays the severity, claiming that minor adjustments will fix the problem without causing major delays. In a subsequent team meeting, some senior members suggest that Prateek overlook the quality concerns to ensure the project remains on schedule. They argue that the majority of the highway meets standards and emphasize the severe economic and political consequences of delays. With elections approaching, they stress the importance of the Chief Minister's inauguration as a key political event. They warn that any delay could damage the ruling party's image, harm its electoral prospects, and potentially have repercussions for the team and the organization. Later, the contractor privately approaches Prateek with a substantial bribe, urging him to ignore the issue and allow the project to proceed. The contractor justifies his actions by citing financial pressures and the need to complete the project on time. Prateek is an honest and upright officer, but he understands that addressing the problem would delay the project, making it impossible to meet the deadline. (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case. (b) Under the given conditions, what are the options available to Prateek as the Project Manager? Critically evaluate each of the options. (c) What option should Prateek adopt and why?20 marks

The answers

Question 1(a) · 10 marks · 194 words written

The increasing use of digital surveillance technologies for maintaining law and order is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view.

Opening

Increasing use of digital surveillance tech is a two edged sword - driving efficient law enforcement but raising privacy concerns.

Body · points

Efficacy of law enforcement

1> Evidentiary value of video evidence u/ BSA → recording traffic violations, abuse of power etc.

2> Digital Surveillance of conversations → unearthing conspiracy, organized crime → eg. NCRB drug busts.

3> Digital Surveillance of public places → women's safety and quick response → eg. 'We him you' app.

4> Used in counter-terror to track radicalization over social media → eg. ISIS Telegram groups

concerns

Close · a way forward

1> Facial Recognition Tech → citizen profiling → pointed out by Internet Freedom Foundation.

2> Access to private chats, search history → violation of digital privacy as per K.S. Puttaswamy case.

3> "thought monitoring" by internet monitoring → "big brother" effect & thought policing.

4> Treating people as "means to an end" (collective security) and not "ends in themselves".

5> violates Frankl's doctrine of "looking for the best in people" since it assumes the worst.

Hence, deployment of such technology should be based on principle of necessity (ECHR) → infringement of privacy should be only to the extent strictly necessary to uphold security of all.