AIR 16 · CSE 2025 · GS4 · 51 pages

Monika Srivastava: GS4 answer copy

17 answers by Monika Srivastava, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1(a)Values and attitude are important components of social capital. Explain with examples how they contribute to building social capital.
  2. Q2Q2
  3. Q2(a)Emotional Intelligence is the ability to manage self emotions and emotions of others around us.
  4. Q3(a)The high debt to GDP ratio of states like Punjab (~53%) have raised questions about the ethics of freebie culture.
  5. Q3(b)Probity in governance is a practice of upholding the highest standards in governance.
  6. Q4(a)Explain the statement "Wisdom is the acceptance of truth".
  7. Q4(b)The above quote by Mahatma Gandhi emphasises on the need for service and that too one with joy and enthusiasm for the greater benefit of both servant and server.
  8. Q4(c)c)
  9. Q5(a)"The highest result of education is tolerance"
  10. Q6(a)Corruption is an unethical practice which leads to corrosion of public administration system.
  11. Q6(b)Q6b
  12. Q7Q7
  13. Q7(b)Options available to Dr. Anand
  14. Q88
  15. Q99
  16. Q10Q10/Q11
  17. Q12The recent NEET case, where an organised group facilitated paper leaks and cheating, has brought to the fore the persistent issue of malpractice in public examinations. As an official involved in conducting the examination, you discover that a software company, responsible for the digital infrastructure, is in collusion with a crime syndicate. The syndicate is pressuring you to ignore irregularities, threatening you and your family, while simultaneously promising financial rewards that could help you secure your daughter's medical admission. Discuss the ethical issues involved, your response to this situation, and the pros and cons of online examinations in this context.

The answers

Question 1(a) · 320 words written

Values and attitude are important components of social capital. Explain with examples how they contribute to building social capital.

Opening · a definition

A value is an enduring belief system that helps guide our decisions and actions. Values form an important part of education.

Body · points

Ideal educational institution: Balance between values and contents.

(1) will enable holistic development of the students → becoming great leaders e.g. MS Swaminathan was a man of brilliant education and values.

(2) In line with Gandhiji's 'Nai Talim' education scheme.

(3) will propel growth of society e.g. Malala had both values and education.

(4) Institutions like Shanti Niketan, ancient gurukul system also focused on both aspects.

(5) Inculcating respect for elders, compassion for the downtrodden, and kindness towards all living beings.

Measures to go beyond mere content learning

(1) Moral science as a separate subject in schools.

(2) Including classes for building healthy relations based on values. e.g. Delhi Schools → Happiness Curriculum.

(3) Breaking social barriers. e.g. in my school we had cleanliness drives → students and sanitation workers cleaned together.

These steps can ensure in developing holistic competence and values.

Attitude is an acquired predisposition to evaluate thoughts, actions and behaviours. It can be of different types.

Diagram
Negative ------------------ Positive | Ambivalent (mix of both)

Attitude in building social capital

(1) Positive attitude → better leader due to efficient crisis handling. e.g. MS Dhoni staying positive even in stressful matches.

(2) Prevents prejudices against coworkers or colleagues → better teamwork.

(3) Attitude instrumental in gaining professional competence → earns respect from fellow workers. e.g. Satish Dhawan widely respected scientist.

(4) Attitude of humility helps develop a connection with masses. e.g. Amitabh Bachhan revered by masses.

(5) Attitude can help move past barriers. e.g. Srikant Bolla → entrepreneur despite blindness → serves as inspiration to many.

However, attitude alone is not enough for social capital. It also needs - (1) Aptitude → being skilled at what we do, else attitude is hollow.

(2) Emotional Intelligence → helps manage emotions and conflicts.

Close · a quotation

It is rightly said, "It is not your aptitude but attitude which determines your altitude."