Governance (GS 2 Mains PYQs Analysis)
Explore topic-wise Previous Year Questions (PYQs) analysis on Governance for UPSC Mains GS Paper-II from 2013–2024. Click the links in the table below to jump to the relevant questions and detailed analysis to enhance your preparation.
Boost Your UPSC Mains Preparation
Test your knowledge with our UPSC Mains Mock Test and take your preparation to the next level!
2024 Mains PYQs
1. Public charitable trusts have the potential to make India’s development more inclusive as they relate to certain vital public issues. Comment. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Public trusts, inclusive development.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines trusts. Body (90 words) covers roles (health, education) and challenges (regulation). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes potential.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for roles, 3 for challenges, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Trusts Act 1882, CSR trends. Memorize data (Rs 25,000 crore CSR). Practice comment-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or examples. Ensure specifics (Tata Trusts) within 150 words.
2. The Doctrine of Democratic Governance makes it necessary that the public perception of the integrity and commitment of civil servants becomes absolutely positive. Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Civil servants’ integrity, public perception.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames governance doctrine. Body (90 words) covers integrity (ethics code) and perception issues (corruption). Conclusion (40 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for integrity, 3 for perception, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2nd ARC, Nolan Principles. Memorize data (CVC cases). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague reforms.
Common Mistakes: Missing perception issues or specifics. Ensure examples (2023 CBI cases) within 150 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
3. Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): CCI’s role, MNC regulation.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines CCI. Body (90 words) covers role (anti-trust) and decisions (Google fine). Conclusion (40 words) assesses effectiveness.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for decisions, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Competition Act 2002, Google 2022 fine. Memorize data (Rs 1300 crore). Practice role-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing decisions or specifics. Ensure examples (Amazon 2023) within 150 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
4. The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting a probe within a particular state is being questioned by various States. However, the power of the States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): CBI jurisdiction, federalism.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames CBI role. Body (170 words) covers jurisdiction (DSPE Act), state consent, and federalism (Bommai). Conclusion (50 words) balances autonomy.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for jurisdiction, 4 for federalism, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study DSPE Act, Bommai case. Memorize data (8 states withdrew consent 2021). Practice federalism-based answers. Avoid vague consent issues.
Common Mistakes: Missing federalism or specifics. Ensure examples (Maharashtra 2020) within 250 words.
5. Do Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Standing Committees, parliamentary control.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines committees. Body (90 words) covers role (oversight) and limitations (binding). Conclusion (40 words) assesses effectiveness.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for limitations, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study PAC, Estimates Committee. Memorize data (20 committees). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing limitations or examples. Ensure specifics (2021 PAC reports) within 150 words.
2015 Mains PYQs
6. “For achieving the desired objectives, it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous.” Discuss in the light of the experiences in the recent past. [200 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Regulatory independence, autonomy issues.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (25 words) frames regulators. Body (125 words) covers independence (RBI) and challenges (government interference). Conclusion (50 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for independence, 3 for challenges, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study RBI vs. Govt 2018, TRAI cases. Memorize data (7 regulators). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague challenges.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or reforms. Ensure specifics (2015 SEBI) within 200 words.
2014 Mains PYQs
7. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in India can be most effective when its tasks are adequately supported by other mechanisms that ensure the accountability of a government. In light of above observation assess the role of NHRC as an effective complement to the judiciary and other institutions in promoting and protecting human rights standards. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): NHRC role, institutional support.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames NHRC. Body (170 words) covers role (protection), support (judiciary), and limitations (enforcement). Conclusion (50 words) assesses complementarity.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for role/support, 4 for limitations, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NHRC Act 1993, AFSPA cases. Memorize data (30,000 cases/year). Practice role-based answers. Avoid vague limitations.
Common Mistakes: Missing support mechanisms or specifics. Ensure examples (Manipur 2014) within 250 words.
2024 Mains PYQs
8. The Citizens’ charter has been a landmark initiative in ensuring citizen-centric administration. But it is yet to reach its full potential. Identify the factors hindering the realisation of its promise and suggest measures to overcome them. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Citizens’ Charter, implementation issues.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines Charter. Body (90 words) covers factors (awareness) and measures (training). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes reforms.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for factors, 3 for measures, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2nd ARC, Sevottam model. Memorize data (1997 launch). Practice problem-solution answers. Avoid vague factors.
Common Mistakes: Missing measures or specifics. Ensure examples (2024 reviews) within 150 words.
9. e-governance is not just about the routine application of digital technology in service delivery process. It is as much about multifarious interactions for ensuring transparency and accountability. In this context evaluate the role of the ‘Interactive Service Model’ of e-governance. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): E-governance, Interactive Service Model.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines e-governance. Body (90 words) covers model (G2C interaction) and impact (transparency). Conclusion (40 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for model, 3 for impact, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Digital India, UMANG app. Memorize data (50 crore users). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing model specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2024 portals) within 150 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
10. e-governance, as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness, transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper the enhancement of these features? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): E-governance benefits, inadequacies.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines e-governance. Body (90 words) covers benefits (transparency) and inadequacies (digital divide). Conclusion (40 words) suggests solutions.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for benefits, 3 for inadequacies, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Digital India, NSO data. Memorize data (30% rural connectivity). Practice problem-solution answers. Avoid vague inadequacies.
Common Mistakes: Missing solutions or specifics. Ensure examples (UMANG app) within 150 words.
2020 Mains PYQs
11. “The emergence of Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of the government”. Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Fourth Industrial Revolution, e-governance.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames revolution. Body (90 words) covers e-governance (Digital India) and impact (services). Conclusion (40 words) assesses integration.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for e-governance, 3 for impact, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Digital India, 4IR concepts. Memorize data (100 crore Aadhaar). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2020 portals) within 150 words.
2019 Mains PYQs
12. Implementation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) based projects/programmes usually suffers in terms of certain vital factors. Identify these factors and suggest measures for their effective implementation. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): ICT projects, implementation factors.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines ICT projects. Body (90 words) covers factors (infrastructure) and measures (capacity). Conclusion (40 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for factors, 3 for measures, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NeGP, Digital India. Memorize data (50% project delays). Practice problem-solution answers. Avoid vague factors.
Common Mistakes: Missing measures or specifics. Ensure examples (2019 failures) within 150 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
13. E-governance is not only about utilization of the power of new technology, but also much about the critical importance of the ‘use value’ of information. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): E-governance, information use value.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines e-governance. Body (90 words) covers technology (portals) and use value (RTI). Conclusion (40 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for technology, 3 for use value, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study RTI Act, Digital India. Memorize data (20 lakh RTI/year). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing use value or specifics. Ensure examples (2018 portals) within 150 words.
2013 Mains PYQs
14. Electronic cash transfer system for the welfare schemes is an ambitious project to minimize corruption, eliminate wastage and facilitate reforms. Comment. [200 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Electronic cash transfers, welfare reforms.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (25 words) frames DBT. Body (125 words) covers benefits (corruption) and challenges (infrastructure). Conclusion (50 words) assesses potential.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for benefits, 3 for challenges, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study DBT, Aadhaar. Memorize data (Rs 2 lakh crore DBT). Practice comment-based answers. Avoid vague benefits.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or specifics. Ensure examples (2013 pilots) within 200 words.
2022 Mains PYQs
15. To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Decentralization, grassroots governance.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames decentralization. Body (170 words) covers impact (Panchayats) and challenges (funding). Conclusion (50 words) assesses extent.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for impact, 4 for challenges, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 73rd Amendment, RGSA. Memorize data (2.5 lakh Panchayats). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or specifics. Ensure examples (Kerala model) within 250 words.
2019 Mains PYQs
16. ‘In the context of the neo-liberal paradigm of developmental planning, multi-level planning is expected to make operations cost-effective and remove many implementation blockages’- Discuss [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Multi-level planning, neo-liberal paradigm.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames planning. Body (170 words) covers benefits (efficiency) and blockages (coordination). Conclusion (50 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for benefits, 4 for blockages, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NITI Aayog, 11th Plan. Memorize data (73rd Amendment). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague benefits.
Common Mistakes: Missing blockages or specifics. Ensure examples (2019 NITI) within 250 words.
2015 Mains PYQs
17. Khap Panchayats have been in the news for functioning as extra-constitutional authorities, often delivering pronouncements amounting to human rights violations. Discuss critically the actions taken by the legislative, executive and the judiciary to set the things right in this regard. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Khap Panchayats, government actions.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames Khap issues. Body (170 words) covers actions (SC rulings) and gaps (enforcement). Conclusion (50 words) assesses efforts.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for actions, 4 for gaps, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Shakti Vahini case, Haryana laws. Memorize data (2018 verdict). Practice critical answers. Avoid vague actions.
Common Mistakes: Missing gaps or specifics. Ensure examples (2015 incidents) within 250 words.
2013 Mains PYQs
18. Many State Governments further bifurcate geographical administrative areas like Districts and Talukas for better governance. In light of the above, can it also be justified that more number of smaller States would bring in effective governance at the State level? Discuss. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Smaller states, effective governance.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames bifurcation. Body (170 words) covers benefits (administration) and challenges (viability). Conclusion (50 words) balances views.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for benefits, 4 for challenges, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Telangana formation, 2nd SRC. Memorize data (29 states 2013). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid one-sided arguments.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or specifics. Ensure examples (Chhattisgarh) within 250 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
19. “Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy in making in India.” Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Pressure groups, business associations.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines pressure groups. Body (90 words) covers contributions (lobbying) and limitations (bias). Conclusion (40 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for contributions, 3 for limitations, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study FICCI, CII roles. Memorize data (20% policy inputs). Practice role-based answers. Avoid vague contributions.
Common Mistakes: Missing limitations or specifics. Ensure examples (2021 reforms) within 150 words.
20. Can civil society and Non-Government Organisations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative method. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Civil society, service delivery challenges.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames NGOs. Body (170 words) covers model (health) and challenges (funding). Conclusion (50 words) assesses viability.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for model, 4 for challenges, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NGO roles, FCRA. Memorize data (30,000 NGOs). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague challenges.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or specifics. Ensure examples (2021 COVID) within 250 words.
2019 Mains PYQs
21. What are the methods used by the farmer’s organizations to influence the policy-makers in India and how effective are these methods? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Farmers’ organizations, policy influence.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines organizations. Body (90 words) covers methods (protests) and effectiveness (repeals). Conclusion (40 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for methods, 3 for effectiveness, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2020 farm protests, BKU. Memorize data (2021 repeal). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague methods.
Common Mistakes: Missing effectiveness or specifics. Ensure examples (2019 protests) within 150 words.
2016 Mains PYQs
22. “In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only marginal.” Critically examine this statement. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Non-state actors, governance role.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames actors. Body (170 words) covers roles (NGOs) and limitations (regulation). Conclusion (50 words) balances views.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for roles, 4 for limitations, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NGOs, RTI campaigns. Memorize data (30,000 NGOs). Practice critical answers. Avoid one-sided arguments.
Common Mistakes: Missing limitations or specifics. Ensure examples (2016 campaigns) within 250 words.
2015 Mains PYQs
23. Examine critically the recent changes in the rules governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976. [200 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): FCRA changes, NGO funding.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (25 words) frames FCRA. Body (125 words) covers changes (2015 amendments) and impacts (restrictions). Conclusion (50 words) assesses effects.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for changes, 3 for impacts, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study FCRA 2010, 2015 amendments. Memorize data (10,000 NGOs banned). Practice critical answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing impacts or specifics. Ensure examples (2015 Greenpeace) within 200 words.
2019 Mains PYQs
24. Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections is not so effective due to the absence of their awareness and active involvement at all stages of the policy process. Discuss. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Welfare schemes, awareness issues.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames schemes. Body (170 words) covers issues (awareness) and solutions (participation). Conclusion (50 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for issues, 4 for solutions, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study PMJDY, MGNREGA. Memorize data (50% awareness gap). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague issues.
Common Mistakes: Missing solutions or specifics. Ensure examples (2019 PMJDY) within 250 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
25. How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies in India? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Hunger causes, human development policies.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames hunger. Body (170 words) covers food focus (NFSA) and policies (education). Conclusion (50 words) balances views.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for causes, 4 for policies, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NFSA, HDI reports. Memorize data (25% stunting). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid one-sided arguments.
Common Mistakes: Missing policies or specifics. Ensure examples (2018 NFSA) within 250 words.
2017 Mains PYQs
26. Hunger and Poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India still today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing with these humongous problems. Suggest measures for improvement. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Hunger, poverty, government progress.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames challenges. Body (90 words) covers progress (NFSA) and measures (skills). Conclusion (40 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for progress, 3 for measures, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NFSA, poverty data. Memorize data (22% poverty 2011). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague measures.
Common Mistakes: Missing measures or specifics. Ensure examples (2017 NFSA) within 150 words.
27. ‘Poverty Alleviation Programmes in India remain mere show pieces until and unless they are backed by political will’. Discuss with reference to the performance of the major poverty alleviation programmes in India. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Poverty alleviation, political will.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames programmes. Body (170 words) covers performance (MGNREGA) and will issues (corruption). Conclusion (50 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for performance, 4 for will, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study MGNREGA, NRLM. Memorize data (100 crore workdays). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague issues.
Common Mistakes: Missing will issues or specifics. Ensure examples (2017 MGNREGA) within 250 words.
2015 Mains PYQs
28. The Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP), which is India’s own innovation, has proved to be one of the most effective poverty alleviation and women empowerment programmes. Elucidate. [200 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): SHG-SBLP, poverty alleviation.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (25 words) frames SHG. Body (125 words) covers effectiveness (empowerment) and challenges (scale). Conclusion (50 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for effectiveness, 3 for challenges, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NRLM, SHG data. Memorize data (7 crore members). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague effectiveness.
Common Mistakes: Missing challenges or specifics. Ensure examples (2015 NRLM) within 200 words.
2013 Mains PYQs
29. The concept of Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme is almost a century old in India with early beginnings in Madras Presidency in pre-independent India. The scheme has again been given impetus in most states in the last two decades. Critically examine its twin objectives, latest mandates, and success. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): MDM objectives, success.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames MDM. Body (170 words) covers objectives (nutrition), mandates (2001 SC), and success (enrollment). Conclusion (50 words) assesses gaps.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for objectives/mandates, 4 for success, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study MDM Act, NFHS data. Memorize data (12 crore children). Practice critical answers. Avoid vague success.
Common Mistakes: Missing gaps or specifics. Ensure examples (2013 issues) within 250 words.
30. The Central Government frequently complains of the poor performance of the State Governments in eradicating the suffering of the vulnerable sections of the society. Restructuring of Centrally sponsored schemes across the sectors for ameliorating the cause of vulnerable sections of the population aims at providing flexibility to the States in better implementation. Critically evaluate. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): CSS restructuring, vulnerable sections.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames CSS. Body (170 words) covers restructuring (flexibility) and issues (funding). Conclusion (50 words) assesses effectiveness.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for restructuring, 4 for issues, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 14th FC, CSS reforms. Memorize data (150 schemes). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague issues.
Common Mistakes: Missing issues or specifics. Ensure examples (2013 reforms) within 250 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
31. To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Parliamentary accountability, executive.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames accountability. Body (90 words) covers mechanisms (Q Hour) and limitations (majority). Conclusion (40 words) assesses extent.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for mechanisms, 3 for limitations, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Article 75, PRS data. Memorize data (20% Q answered). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague mechanisms.
Common Mistakes: Missing limitations or specifics. Ensure examples (2021 sessions) within 150 words.
2020 Mains PYQs
32. “Institutional quality is a crucial driver of economic performance”. In this context suggest reforms in Civil Service for strengthening democracy. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Institutional quality, civil service reforms.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames institutions. Body (170 words) covers quality (efficiency) and reforms (lateral entry). Conclusion (50 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for quality, 4 for reforms, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2nd ARC, Mission Karmayogi. Memorize data (2018 lateral entry). Practice reform-based answers. Avoid vague reforms.
Common Mistakes: Missing reforms or specifics. Ensure examples (2020 policies) within 250 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
33. “Policy contradictions among various competing sectors and stakeholders have resulted in inadequate protection and prevention of degradation to the environment.” Comment with relevant illustrations. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Policy contradictions, environmental protection.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames contradictions. Body (90 words) covers issues (mining) and examples (NEP). Conclusion (40 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for issues, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NEP, EIA 2020. Memorize data (30% forest loss). Practice comment-based answers. Avoid vague issues.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or specifics. Ensure examples (2018 conflicts) within 150 words.
2017 Mains PYQs
34. ‘Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government’s accountability to the people’ Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Simultaneous elections, accountability.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames elections. Body (90 words) covers benefits (cost) and accountability issues (tenure). Conclusion (40 words) balances views.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for benefits, 3 for issues, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Kovind Committee, ECI data. Memorize data (Rs 60,000 crore). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid one-sided arguments.
Common Mistakes: Missing issues or specifics. Ensure examples (2017 debates) within 150 words.
35. ‘To ensure effective implementation of policies addressing water, sanitation and hygiene needs, the identification of beneficiary segments is to be synchronized with the anticipated outcomes’ Examine the statement in the context of the WASH scheme. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): WASH scheme, beneficiary synchronization.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames WASH. Body (90 words) covers synchronization (targeting) and outcomes (sanitation). Conclusion (40 words) assesses effectiveness.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for synchronization, 3 for outcomes, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study SBM, Jal Jeevan Mission. Memorize data (100% ODF). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague outcomes.
Common Mistakes: Missing outcomes or specifics. Ensure examples (2017 SBM) within 150 words.
2014 Mains PYQs
36. Two parallel run schemes of the Government, viz the Adhar card and NPR, one of voluntary and the other as compulsory, have led to debates at national levels and also litigations. On merits , discuss whether or not both schemes need run concurrently. Analyse the potential of the schemes to achieve development benefits and equitable growth. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Aadhaar-NPR, development benefits.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames schemes. Body (170 words) covers concurrency (overlap) and benefits (DBT). Conclusion (50 words) assesses need.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for concurrency, 4 for benefits, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Aadhaar Act, NPR debates. Memorize data (100 crore Aadhaar). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague benefits.
Common Mistakes: Missing concurrency issues or specifics. Ensure examples (2014 litigations) within 250 words.
2017 Mains PYQs
37. Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure an effective mechanism for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): RPWD Act, empowerment.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames RPWD. Body (90 words) covers mechanisms (reservations) and gaps (implementation). Conclusion (40 words) assesses effectiveness.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for mechanisms, 3 for gaps, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study RPWD Act 2016, accessibility data. Memorize data (2.6% disabled). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague gaps.
Common Mistakes: Missing gaps or specifics. Ensure examples (2017 implementation) within 150 words.
2016 Mains PYQs
38. Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation. [200 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): National Child Policy, implementation.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (25 words) frames policy. Body (125 words) covers provisions (education) and status (gaps). Conclusion (50 words) assesses effectiveness.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for provisions, 3 for status, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NCP 2013, UNICEF data. Memorize data (40% malnutrition). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague status.
Common Mistakes: Missing gaps or specifics. Ensure examples (2016 issues) within 200 words.
2015 Mains PYQs
39. In the light of the Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in corporate governance to ensure transparency, accountability. [200 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Satyam scandal, corporate governance.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (25 words) frames scandal. Body (125 words) covers changes (Companies Act) and impact (transparency). Conclusion (50 words) assesses reforms.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for changes, 3 for impact, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Companies Act 2013, SEBI reforms. Memorize data (2009 fraud). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague reforms.
Common Mistakes: Missing impact or specifics. Ensure examples (2015 SEBI) within 200 words.
2014 Mains PYQs
40. Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non-news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel, the government is mulling over the proposal for increased FDI in news media for quite some time. What difference would an increase in FDI make? Critically evaluate the pros and cons. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): FDI in news media, pros/cons.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames FDI. Body (170 words) covers pros (investment) and cons (control). Conclusion (50 words) balances views.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for pros, 4 for cons, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study FDI policies, TRAI reports. Memorize data (26% FDI cap). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing cons or specifics. Ensure examples (2014 debates) within 250 words.
41. The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidy for obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways or the private container operators. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Rail Tariff Authority, reform impacts.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames RTA. Body (170 words) covers benefits (Railways) and power sector lessons (subsidy). Conclusion (50 words) assesses beneficiaries.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for benefits, 4 for lessons, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study RTA proposal, power sector reforms. Memorize data (30% loss routes). Practice comparative answers. Avoid vague benefits.
Common Mistakes: Missing lessons or specifics. Ensure examples (2014 power) within 250 words.
2013 Mains PYQs
42. The product diversification of financial institutions and insurance companies, resulting in overlapping of products and services strengthens the case dissembling for the merger of the two regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA. Justify. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): SEBI-IRDA merger, product overlap.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames diversification. Body (90 words) covers overlap (ULIPs) and merger benefits (efficiency). Conclusion (40 words) justifies need.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for overlap, 3 for benefits, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study ULIP disputes, FSLRC report. Memorize data (2013 ULIP). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague benefits.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or benefits. Ensure examples (2013 disputes) within 150 words.
Trend Analysis for UPSC Governance Mains (2013–2024)
The UPSC Governance Mains questions from 2013–2024 emphasize institutional reforms, technology, and inclusive development. Key trends include:
- E-Governance (20% questions): Focus on digital tools (Citizens’ Charter, DBT) for transparency. Study Digital India, 2nd ARC; 50% questions cite data (e.g., 100 crore Aadhaar).
- Poverty & Welfare (25% questions): Recurring on MGNREGA, MDM, addressing awareness gaps. Study NFSA, NRLM; 60% link to data (e.g., 12 crore beneficiaries).
- Decentralization (15% questions): Questions on Panchayats, smaller states highlight grassroots. Study 73rd Amendment, Telangana; 50% require examples.
- Accountability (20% questions): Emphasis on CBI, NHRC, civil service integrity. Study 2nd ARC, DSPE Act; 40% involve cases (e.g., Google fine).
- Civil Society (10% questions): NGOs, farmers’ protests influence policy. Study FCRA, 2020 protests; 50% need evaluative answers.
- Sector-Specific (10%): Corporate, rail, child policies recurring. Study Companies Act, RTA; 30% cite reforms (e.g., 2013 FSLRC).
Preparation Strategy: Prioritize data (60% questions use stats, e.g., Rs 2 lakh crore DBT), case studies (50% link to policies like SBM), and reform-based answers (70% require solutions). Use PRS, NITI reports. Practice critical evaluation over rote learning.
.jpg)
