AIR 14 · CSE 2025 · GS4 · 54 pages

Surabhi Yadav: GS4 answer copy

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

The questions

  1. Q1(a)The ideals of ‘Dhamma’ by Ashoka present key learnings on public morality. Discuss. Also, state their relevance for public servants.10 marks
  2. Q1(b)There is a need for an effective climate governance structure within the broad framework of corporate governance. Discuss.10 marks
  3. Q2(a)Family values influence the decisions individuals make both within the family structure and outside of it. Do you agree with the statement? Justify with relevant examples.10 marks
  4. Q2(b)'Niti' must be more concerned with 'nyaya' i.e. the elimination of removable injustices rather than defining a perfectly just society. Discuss.10 marks
  5. Q3(a)While it may seem restrictive, anonymity is one of the greatest strengths of the civil services. Comment in the context of growth of social media in recent times.10 marks
  6. Q4(b)Explaining the meaning of media ethics, discuss why it is a prerequisite for democracy.10 marks
  7. Q5(a)What do you understand by a situation of 'crisis of conscience'? Also, explain how a public servant can deal with such a situation.10 marks
  8. Q5(b)The opportunities and threats created by emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) require leaders across business, government and civil society to understand the importance of values and ethics in technological development. Elucidate.10 marks
  9. Q6(a)It is argued that the Indian bureaucracy suffers from indecision and risk aversion. Do you agree? Justify with logical arguments.10 marks
  10. Q6(b)Corruption endangers not only the quality of governance but also threatens the very foundation of our society. Elucidate.10 marks
  11. Q6(c)Discuss the foundational values of civil services, which are prerequisites in building a responsive public administration. Also, highlight how Mission Karmayogi aspires to make public administration more responsive.10 marks
  12. Q7You come across a news report of a state 'X', which has a considerable number of school going children suffering from malnourishment. To overcome this, the state recently rolled out a policy to introduce eggs in mid-day meals in schools. However, some parents, teachers and a few religious groups have protested against the move. The report states that the Minister of Education of state 'X' has assured the public of a reversal in the policy. You are aware that this may be because elections are approaching in the state and the party in power may not want to antagonise a particular religious group, which is its key supporter. In light of this, answer the following: (a) Highlight the stakeholders in the given case study. (b) Examine the options available in the given situation. (c) According to you, what is the best course of action and why?20 marks
  13. Q8Recently, the government has proposed a bill to increase the age of marriage for women from 18 to 21 years. It has been argued that it will help women improve their nutritional status, lower maternal mortality rate and improve the overall health status of women. However, some critics have stated that the proposed law would be counterproductive to women's cause and the desired objectives will not be met. In this context, answer the following questions: (a) What effect will an increase in the age of marriage have on women in India? (b) Can legislation be used as an effective tool for social change? (c) Discuss other agents that can be used for social change in this context.20 marks
  14. Q8(b)Legislation has often been used to bring social change. Discuss.
  15. Q9Climate change not only threatens our ecosystems but also undermines the foundation of our fundamental rights, deepens inequalities and creates new forms of injustice. Adapting to climate change and trying to mitigate its impacts are not just a matter of scientific knowledge and political will but also demand a broader view of a complex, inter-related situation. Human induced climate change has brought in several ethical dimensions not just in causing climate change but also in the role and responsibility in mitigating it. (a) Highlight the ethical issues arising out of human-induced climate change. (b) What ethical principles should form the basis of global action on climate change?20 marks
  16. Q1020 marks
  17. Q1120 marks
  18. Q1220 marks
  19. Q12(a)The key issues involved in the scenario

The answers

Question 1(a) · 10 marks · 173 words written

The ideals of ‘Dhamma’ by Ashoka present key learnings on public morality. Discuss. Also, state their relevance for public servants.

Opening · a definition

Ans. 'Dhamma' means 'to uphold'. These were the set of guidelines which Ashoka emphasised as central to all living beings.

Public morality refers to the ways and values that are considered acceptable by large section in the society.

Body · points

Ideals of 'Dhamma' by Ashoka

1- Truthfulness - to speak the truth is great virtue. 2- Respect elders - It emphasises the public to be humble & kind. 3- Respect other religions - It promotes harmony and peace. A great public morality. 4- To treat servants well - It teaches public about respecting each profession. Instill dignity.

Relevance to Public Servants

Close · a summary

1- Teaches them Honesty. - An honest and truthful civil servants serves public better and he is accountable & maintains transparency. 2- Teaches them compassion - respecting elders, helps them understand to be humble. 3- Promote brotherhood among public. 4- Teaches them to treat everyone equal, even those subordinate.

'Dhamma' was propagated by Ashoka through Mahamatyas. It instilled compassion, kindness, care and harmony far & wide. Its still relevant in present society.