AIR 1 · GS2 · 56 pages

Ishita Kishore: GS2 answer copy

19 answers by Ishita Kishore, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1Do you agree with the view that time has come to revisit the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution? Discuss with suitable arguments.10 marks
  2. Q2Highlighting the advantages of online dispute resolution (ODR) mechanism for justice delivery, discuss the challenges associated with its effective implementation in India.10 marks
  3. Q3Despite the constitutional division of powers, Centre-state disputes have been a perennial feature of Indian democracy. Discuss with examples.10 marks
  4. Q4Do you agree with the view that adopting a framework for lobbying will strengthen participative governance and ease of doing business in India?10 marks
  5. Q5Despite 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
  6. Q6As a social safety-valve, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) can be the principal vehicles through which communities voice their concerns. Discuss.10 marks
  7. Q7Despite being lauded for its patient centric approach, the implementation of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, remains sluggish and mired with various issues. Discuss.10 marks
  8. Q8Do you agree with the view that time has come to formulate an Urban Employment Guarantee scheme at the national level?10 marks
  9. Q9Discuss the relevance of BIMSTEC as a regional organisation to fulfil India's strategic aspirations in the Indian Ocean Region.10 marks
  10. Q10Discuss the relevance of the Gujral Doctrine for India with regard to its relations with its immediate neighbours in the present times.10 marks
  11. Q11Highlight the pivotal role of the "Officers of Parliament" in the Indian Parliamentary system. Also, discuss the constitutional and statutory provisions for their impartial functioning.15 marks
  12. Q12The Finance Commission plays a crucial role in balancing fiscal federalism in India. In this context, examine the recommendations given by the 15th Finance Commission.15 marks
  13. Q13Critically assess whether according statutory backing to the Model Code of Conduct will contribute towards free and fair elections in India.15 marks
  14. Q14The market disruption caused by digital revolution warrants renewed focus and perspective to ensure fair competition in the digital economy. In this light, discuss the need to revamp the Competition Commission of India (CCI).15 marks
  15. Q15There 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
  16. Q16State the reasons behind the poor performance of cooperatives in India. Also, discuss the reforms undertaken by the government to overcome the shortcomings.15 marks
  17. Q17Public-Private Partnership model, if harnessed properly, has the potential to bridge the gaps in India's healthcare system. Discuss.15 marks
  18. Q18Although the New Education Policy brings with itself a commendable vision, its success will depend on its ability to effectively integrate with the government's other policy initiatives. Discuss.15 marks
  19. Q19The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) is born from a collective desire to make the Indo-Pacific region an engine of global economic growth. Comment. Also, discuss India's concerns in this context.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 147 words written

Do you agree with the view that time has come to revisit the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution? Discuss with suitable arguments.

Opening

The 7th schedule is the federal axis of the constitution that envisages three lists for smooth governance.

Body · points

The 7th schedule is the federal axis of the constitution that envisages three lists for smooth governance.

Diagram
List I (Central list) -> More items and more important items -> Desires uniformity List II (State list) -> Desires diversity (Eg: law & order, agriculture) List III (Concurrent list) -> Under jurisdiction of both Centre & State (Uniformity desirable but not necessary; Eg: Education)

Need to revisit 7th Schedule

  • i- Criticism as 'Quasi Federal' by KC Wheare due to central bias.
  • ii- Democratic decentralisation is half baked

Eg 2nd ARC recommended Principle of Subsidiarity. But Centre refuses to devolve to states who in turn dont devolve to local bodies.

-iii- Emerging nature of crises requires on ground effort (↑ role of States) Eg Health is state subject → Problem in COVID crisis with central management. Disaster Management requires more autonomy. (Cyclone Amphan)

-iv- Some Areas require rise in role of Centre Eg. National Minimum Wage

  • Law & Order (without borders Eg Digital)

-v- Agriculture sector is stagnated but confusion → Concurrent list: markets → State list: agriculture (need clarity)

Diagram
Way forward -> Set up committee for revisiting -> Refer recommendations of law commission, 2nd ARC, NCREWC

This can foster a federal balance as held in SR Bommai case.

Close · a way forward

(need clarity) This can foster a federal balance as held in SR Bommai case.