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You are traveling in a government bus to attend a very important job interview. In one hour you should be present at the interview venue. The bus is very congested. Luckily you are seated. From your seat you observe that a middle aged man standing next to a girl is touching and trying to molest her. The girl is silently resisting and trying to move away from him. But the man is continuing his actions. As the bus is congested, nobody is noticing this except you. In this situation, what will you do? Explain. If you do not do anything, which values will you be compromising? Explain their importance. 10 marks

In the introduction briefly discuss the case. In the body you can explain the possible solutions available to you to address the situation and then present a detailed evaluation of each option available to you. Discuss the importance of values that you as an individual must uphold in such situations. Conclude with most apt solution… Continue reading You are traveling in a government bus to attend a very important job interview. In one hour you should be present at the interview venue. The bus is very congested. Luckily you are seated. From your seat you observe that a middle aged man standing next to a girl is touching and trying to molest her. The girl is silently resisting and trying to move away from him. But the man is continuing his actions. As the bus is congested, nobody is noticing this except you. In this situation, what will you do? Explain. If you do not do anything, which values will you be compromising? Explain their importance. 10 marks

With their distinctive issues and vulnerability, people with disabilities need much more upkeep than the rest of the population in the face of a pandemic. Comment. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction briefly explain the background of the question using some facts to justify it. In the body you can start with, India is home to nearly 150 million people with some degree of disability. Discuss the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities. Highlight the concerns. Conclude with solutions and suggest… Continue reading With their distinctive issues and vulnerability, people with disabilities need much more upkeep than the rest of the population in the face of a pandemic. Comment. 10 marks

Cybersecurity framework should have multiple aspects from prevention techniques to cyber audits. Discuss multiple necessities for a holistic framework. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/getting-the-firewall-ready-cyber-audits-critical-for-government-to-begin-with/2015355/ https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/why-india-needs-an-updated-cybersecurity-strategy/2001658/ In the intro, briefly mention the importance of cybersecurity. In the body, a multi-pronged approach to cybersecurity strategies like the adoption standards and guidelines, advisory mechanism, conducting security checks, security audits, creation of cyber defence network etc can be mentioned. Conclude by the salience of a robust cybersecurity environment and potential… Continue reading Cybersecurity framework should have multiple aspects from prevention techniques to cyber audits. Discuss multiple necessities for a holistic framework. 10 marks

What constitutes India’s Indo-Pacific vision? Elaborate on the factors that explain China’s reluctance to subscribe to this vision. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/the-indian-ocean-front-6493234/ In the intro, highlight the region’s importance from security, economic, historical, cultural point of view. In the body, elaborate the Indo-Pacific vision by highlighting ASEAN centrality, inclusivity, commitment to shared prosperity etc. Factors that explain China’s reluctance could be its “Malacca Dilemma” and the BRI project, suspicion of the India-U.S. cooperation against… Continue reading What constitutes India’s Indo-Pacific vision? Elaborate on the factors that explain China’s reluctance to subscribe to this vision. 10 marks

While India has been the net exporter of agricultural products ever since the economic reforms of 1991, yet it is far from realising its potential to become the leading agri-produce exporter. In light of this, suggest the strategy that India should follow to increase India’s net agri-exports. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/atma-nirbhar-bharat-scheme-agriculture-narendra-modi-govt-covid-19-6491672/ In the intro, briefly state India’s progress from ship-to-mouth country to self-sufficiency to the exporter. In the body, focus on the comparative advantage and mention the commodities we export and providing further incentives similar to what is given for rice and sugar to increase their production. Next, on import we spend most on… Continue reading While India has been the net exporter of agricultural products ever since the economic reforms of 1991, yet it is far from realising its potential to become the leading agri-produce exporter. In light of this, suggest the strategy that India should follow to increase India’s net agri-exports. 10 marks

The judgement of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Italian marines case was based on the immunity of state officials. What could be the implication of invoking immunity of state official in this judgement? What should be the next course of action for India? 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://vk.com/doc562341376_558583356?hash=9848149162eaaf5a93&dl=dc100bbf20d792fd19 In the intro, briefly mention the issues involved in the case. In the body, first, explain the what immunity of the state is. As implications mention that immunity of state officials is based on treaties either bilateral or multilateral but after this judgement, many states could enact laws to provide immunity to… Continue reading The judgement of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea in Italian marines case was based on the immunity of state officials. What could be the implication of invoking immunity of state official in this judgement? What should be the next course of action for India? 10 marks

You are working as an Execution officer (EO) in a Zila. You have been given responsibility to measure MGNREGA works undertaken by 3 gram panchayats. You have authority to give administrative sanctions to all MGNREGA works. In one of these panchayats you noticed that your predecessor had wrongly measured many works, and in many cases he had approved works that never existed. One day few elected members of that panchayat with bundle of job cards come to you to seek ‘sanction’ for the works done by them. When enquired, they reveal that they were contractors who had completed works under MGNREGA. When you reject their demand, they threaten you and tell you that the previous EO was made to quit his job because he didn’t listen to them. This is your first job and is very important to sustain your family. There have been precedents in the past that some officials were beaten to death in some parts of the Zila. What will you do in this situation? Explain in detail citing rules from MGNREGA Act. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction briefly state the facts of the case. In the body explain the provision of social audit for MGNREGA. Discuss the possible events of actions you would take as an EO; Throw light on the virtues of courage and uprightness and need for showing virtues. Conclude with suitable solution to address… Continue reading You are working as an Execution officer (EO) in a Zila. You have been given responsibility to measure MGNREGA works undertaken by 3 gram panchayats. You have authority to give administrative sanctions to all MGNREGA works. In one of these panchayats you noticed that your predecessor had wrongly measured many works, and in many cases he had approved works that never existed. One day few elected members of that panchayat with bundle of job cards come to you to seek ‘sanction’ for the works done by them. When enquired, they reveal that they were contractors who had completed works under MGNREGA. When you reject their demand, they threaten you and tell you that the previous EO was made to quit his job because he didn’t listen to them. This is your first job and is very important to sustain your family. There have been precedents in the past that some officials were beaten to death in some parts of the Zila. What will you do in this situation? Explain in detail citing rules from MGNREGA Act. 10 marks

What do you understand by communalism? Deliberate upon the causes and impact of communalism on Indian society. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction briefly discuss what do you understand by Communalism. In the body discuss the reasons contributing to Communalism; Vested political interests, Rise of communal organisations, Politicization of local problems, Religious fundamentalism etc. Discuss the impact of communalism on Indian society; impact on social fabric, economy, polity etc. Suggest way forward for… Continue reading What do you understand by communalism? Deliberate upon the causes and impact of communalism on Indian society. 10 marks

What is universal basic income (UBI)? What issues it could face while implementing in India? Suggest the steps to address the issues in the UBI. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/corona-crisis-india-healthcare-system-universal-basic-income-mgnrega-migrant-workers-6487481/ In the intro, briefly explain the concept UBI. In the body, mention the issues in the implementation like lack of resources, leakages, efficiency etc. In the steps, as suggested in the article, suggest the implementation of MGNREGA in urban areas, application of UBI for women, increasing the days of employment under the… Continue reading What is universal basic income (UBI)? What issues it could face while implementing in India? Suggest the steps to address the issues in the UBI. 10 marks

India has been chosen as the non-permanent member of the UNSC and will be there at the critical time in the history of the UNSC. What should be India’s priority and approach as a member of the UNSC? 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/in-an-uncertain-world-a-seat-at-the-global-high-table/article31973275.ece https://theprint.in/diplomacy/india-set-to-be-unsc-non-permanent-member-says-will-bring-five-s-approach-to-world/436171/ In the intro, briefly mention the structure of UNSC and what being a permanent and non-permanent member mean. In the body, as India’s priority mention dealing with the pandemic, counter-terrorism, issue of a permanent seat etc can be mentioned. And as an approach, mention India’s ‘Five S’ approach. In the conclusion mention… Continue reading India has been chosen as the non-permanent member of the UNSC and will be there at the critical time in the history of the UNSC. What should be India’s priority and approach as a member of the UNSC? 10 marks

Distinguish between “Code of ethics” and “Code of conduct” with suitable examples. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction you can mention that both Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct are similar as they are used in an attempt to encourage specific forms of behaviour by employees. In the body discuss the differences between the two.Quote suitable examples wherever required to substantiate better. Conclude by reasserting the significance… Continue reading Distinguish between “Code of ethics” and “Code of conduct” with suitable examples. 10 marks

Propaganda can lead to cult leadership, and propaganda along with cult leadership could be dangerous for peace and stability within the country and for the world. Comment with reference to Nazism in Germany. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction briefly define the concept of Propaganda and Cult leadership. In the body you can discuss the following in detail- Narrate the backdrop of the rise of Nazi culture, Use of techniques of propaganda—that include strong images and simple messages, discuss how Nazi propaganda idolized Hitler as a gifted statesman who brought… Continue reading Propaganda can lead to cult leadership, and propaganda along with cult leadership could be dangerous for peace and stability within the country and for the world. Comment with reference to Nazism in Germany. 10 marks

Discuss in what way PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance And Timely Implementation) can bring in more e-transparency and e-accountability with real-time presence leading to a culture of Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction discuss briefly  the objectives of PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance And Timely Implementation). In the body explain that it is the ICT based multi-modal platform for Pro- Active Governance and Timely Implementation, involving central and state governments.Discuss the importance of it. Explain challenges if any. Conclude on a positive note highlighting the… Continue reading Discuss in what way PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance And Timely Implementation) can bring in more e-transparency and e-accountability with real-time presence leading to a culture of Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation. 10 marks

Digital services have become critical to every 21st-century economy and more so for the Indian economy. In light, highlight the salience of digital services for the Indian economy and what are the issues that could affect the growth trajectory of the sector in India? 10 marks

Mentor’s comment– https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/reforming-indias-digital-policy/article31966403.ece In the intro, mention what constitutes digital services. In the body, mention the significance of digital services in driving the Indian economy and the growth potential it holds. In the issue, trade uncertainties in the U.S., government regulation, lack of policy, and the issues in the proposed policy could be mentioned. Conclude… Continue reading Digital services have become critical to every 21st-century economy and more so for the Indian economy. In light, highlight the salience of digital services for the Indian economy and what are the issues that could affect the growth trajectory of the sector in India? 10 marks

The cracks in the global order were apparent but the pandemic has accentuated the challenges to the global order. In light of this, examine the challenges to global order is facing the role that India should play. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/antonio-guterres-united-nations-coronavirus-pandemic-syed-akbaruddin-6485727/ In the intro, briefly mention the disruption caused by corona pandemic. In the body, challenges faced by global order and heightened by pandemic- rising geopolitical tensions, climate change, global distrust, trade war etc can be mentioned. In the role India could play includes a partnership with like-minded nations in shaping the emerging… Continue reading The cracks in the global order were apparent but the pandemic has accentuated the challenges to the global order. In light of this, examine the challenges to global order is facing the role that India should play. 10 marks

Unifying post-partition India and princely states under one administration was perhaps the most important task facing the political leadership. Explain. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction you can brief upon the condition of the India at the time of independence. In the body you can discuss why integration was the need of the hour. Explain the significance of unification of the country – Territorial continuity, Demand for modernization, Internal Security etc. Discuss the contributions of various… Continue reading Unifying post-partition India and princely states under one administration was perhaps the most important task facing the political leadership. Explain. 10 marks

India’s foreign exchange reserves touched new height recently. This also gives rise to the argument of lost opportunity. In light of this discuss the utility of maintaining foreign exchange reserves and issue of optimum level of foreign exchange reserves.10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/forex-reserves-rising-indin-economy-gdp-covid-19-impact-6484029/ In the intro, briefly explain what foreign exchange reserve is. In the body,  as the utility of the foreign exchange reserves you can mention the purposes of maintaining them- Like import cover, stabilising rupee, to foster the confidence of investors etc. On maintaining the optimum level, you can mention the issue of… Continue reading India’s foreign exchange reserves touched new height recently. This also gives rise to the argument of lost opportunity. In light of this discuss the utility of maintaining foreign exchange reserves and issue of optimum level of foreign exchange reserves.10 marks

Custodial torture is an anathema to democracy. Examine the issues related to custodial torture and how is it against the basic fundamental rights? What steps should be taken to prevent such acts by the police functionaries? 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/tamil-nadu-police-custodial-deaths-torture-guarding-the-guardians-6484025/ In the intro, explain custodial torture. In the body explain how it is an extra-judicial element in the criminal justice system, how it brings humanity to the lowest level, how it is against the norms of society and Constitutional obligation of Fundamental Rights, also mention that India is not a signatory to… Continue reading Custodial torture is an anathema to democracy. Examine the issues related to custodial torture and how is it against the basic fundamental rights? What steps should be taken to prevent such acts by the police functionaries? 10 marks

Discuss the role of emotional intelligence in conflict handling with suitable examples. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction briefly define what emotional intelligence is. In the body explain that emotional intelligence is the ability to “Recognize, understand and manage our own emotions.” Explain then that whenever individuals interact, such as employees within a project team or managers during a negotiation, interpersonal conflicts are possible. Relate and reason in… Continue reading Discuss the role of emotional intelligence in conflict handling with suitable examples. 10 marks

Discuss the non-geographical factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world. 10 marks

Mentor’s comment- In the introduction you can explain that industrial locations are complex in nature. In the body you can discuss the non-geographical factors in detail – Capital investment, Availability of loans, Investment climate, Government policies/regulations, Influence of pressure groups etc. You can quote relevant examples from India and across the world to justify the… Continue reading Discuss the non-geographical factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world. 10 marks

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