AIR 61 · CSE 2022 · GS2 · 52 pages

Tanmai Khanna: GS2 answer copy

20 answers by Tanmai Khanna, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1'When the right to freedom of speech and expression corrodes, the institutions of democracy crumble'. Analyze.10 marks
  2. Q2The presence of Vigilant Opposition is necessary not just for a vibrant democracy but for its very survival. Discuss.10 marks
  3. Q3India does not follow a watertight model of separation of powers; rather a system of salutary checks and balances. Discuss. Also, explain the rationale behind the same.10 marks
  4. Q4"Judicial evenings are sensitive phases; the incumbent being bothered about post-retiral avenues." In the context of this statement, discuss how the prospects of post-retirement employment affect the independence of Judiciary.10 marks
  5. Q5The evolution of e-governance from mere information to transformation is critically based on the pillar of technology. In this context, analyze how the usage of technology in governance has facilitated effective public service delivery?10 marks
  6. Q6Has the use of technology aided in ensuring free and fair elections in India? Elaborate.10 marks
  7. Q7Do you think that direct cash transfers deliver benefits more efficiently than in-kind transfers? Also, discuss the potential of e-RUPI in transforming delivery of welfare schemes.10 marks
  8. Q8Identify the SDGs that are related to Health. Discuss the success of the government initiatives in achieving the same.10 marks
  9. Q9Despite considerable geographical contiguity. SAARC has remained in a condition of jammed traffic. Discuss what SAARC can learn from other regional groupings from around the world.10 marks
  10. Q10In Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has become a coveted prize to win for India and China. Discuss how this competition is affecting relations between India and Sri Lanka.10 marks
  11. Q11Finance Commission in India has the tough job of balancing inclusiveness for poorer states and incentives for states that perform. Comment.15 marks
  12. Q12An impartial and apolitical bureaucracy strengthens governance and contributes towards economic development and social transformation. Elaborate.15 marks
  13. Q13"There is a confrontation between the limited financial resources and the unlimited need for public services." In this context, bring out challenges in front of the Urban Local Bodies as public service providers. Also, suggest suitable measures to address these challenges.15 marks
  14. Q14'Protection is one of the child rights, but is more than just a right.' What do you understand by the given statement? Discuss the steps taken by the government of India to ensure child protection. Also, highlight the barriers in the protection of child rights in India.15 marks
  15. Q15The role of the State does not diminish when non-State actors get involved in service delivery, it just becomes different. Elaborate the statement in the context of partnership of State and non-State actors in the governance in India.15 marks
  16. Q16Though emerging technologies have aided the public welfare in India, they pose challenges to regulatory bodies as well. Substantiate. Also, suggest way forward to address these challenges.15 marks
  17. Q17The wellbeing of civil society depends upon its social capital and the way it works. Can a diverse and heterogeneous nation like India have strong social capital? What role does civil society organizations (CSO) play in building a strong social capital in India?15 marks
  18. Q18Hunger can be viewed as the most severe and critical manifestation of poverty. In this context, analyze the linkage between hunger and poverty. How has India fared in tackling the vicious cycle of hunger and poverty?15 marks
  19. Q19What is I2U2 summit? How its interests align with India's interests? Discuss in context of India trying to expand its presence in global affairs.15 marks
  20. Q20"Without reforms, United Nations is facing crisis of confidence". Suggest the reforms that can be taken to make United Nations more relevant to the present-day geopolitical realities.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 136 words written

'When the right to freedom of speech and expression corrodes, the institutions of democracy crumble'. Analyze.

Opening · a constitutional or legal provision

The right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed by the constitution under Article 19.

However, lately certain actions have begun corroding this right:

Body · points

→ Sedition (IPC 124A) is an archaic law that is now used to punish even genuine criticism of the government in certain cases.

→ In the parliament, the Anti Defection law has taken away an MP's right to express their opinion about a matter and can only toe the party line.

→ Dissent must be encouraged in classrooms and colleges instead of suppressing it. CJI Patanjali Sastri calls it the foundation of public institutions.

Close · a way forward

Without this right, essential institutions like the Parliament, educational institutions and society in general, is not able to discuss, debate and evolve.

Therefore, this right must be protected fiercely by the government as well as the judiciary.