GS II: Polity and Governance

Q.1 How effective has the Right to Information Act been in promoting transparency and accountability in governance?

Model Answer Guidance:

• Introduction: Start with a brief overview of the RTI Act and its intended purpose.
• Main Body: Discuss successes like exposure of corruption and enhancement of transparency, along with limitations such as delayed responses.
• Examples: Illustrate with examples of high-profile cases uncovered through RTI.
• Conclusion: Suggest ways to improve the RTI Act for greater effectiveness in governance.

Q.2 Critically examine the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in rural development.

Model Answer Guidance:

• Introduction: Provide an overview of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and their constitutional mandate.
• Main Body: Evaluate their impact on rural governance and development, focusing on decentralization and empowerment.
• Examples: Cite examples of successful PRI initiatives, along with challenges like funding issues.
• Conclusion: Suggest reforms for PRIs to better achieve their developmental goals.

Q.3 Discuss the significance of the Basic Structure doctrine in safeguarding the Indian Constitution.

Model Answer Guidance:

• Introduction: Explain the Basic Structure doctrine and its origin in the Kesavananda Bharati case.
• Main Body: Discuss its role in maintaining constitutional integrity and preventing arbitrary amendments.
• Examples: Refer to cases where the doctrine has been invoked to protect democratic values.
• Conclusion: Conclude with the doctrine’s importance in ensuring a stable and just constitutional framework.

Q.4 Evaluate the effectiveness of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act in combating corruption in India.

Model Answer Guidance:

• Introduction: Outline the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act and its objectives.
• Main Body: Discuss its impact on anti-corruption efforts, noting successes and limitations like delayed appointments.
• Examples: Use case studies to illustrate the Act’s application and challenges.
• Conclusion: Suggest ways to improve the Act’s implementation and effectiveness.

Q.5 Assess the challenges in implementing cooperative federalism in India.

Model Answer Guidance:

• Introduction: Define cooperative federalism and its relevance to India’s governance.
• Main Body: Discuss challenges like resource allocation, state autonomy, and central-state conflicts.
• Examples: Use instances like GST and COVID-19 management to illustrate.
• Conclusion: Propose strategies for strengthening cooperative federalism in India.