Social Justice is a critical subject for UPSC aspirants as it provides an understanding of the principles and practices of justice in society. The subject encompasses various aspects, such as social inequalities, discrimination, and marginalization based on gender, caste, religion, and other factors. In the previous year’s mains examination, several questions related to Social Justice were asked, highlighting the importance of this subject for the exam. Therefore, it is crucial for aspirants to have a comprehensive understanding of the topic to score well in the exam.
To excel in the Social Justice section of the UPSC Mains exam, aspirants must focus on building a strong foundation. A thorough understanding of the various aspects of Social Justice, including social and economic disparities, the intersectionality of various forms of marginalization, and the impact of policies on vulnerable and marginalized sections of society, is essential. Additionally, aspirants must keep themselves updated with the latest developments in the field of Social Justice, such as new laws, policies, and initiatives aimed at promoting social equality and justice. Regular practice of answering previous year’s questions and mock tests can also help in developing the necessary writing skills required to ace the exam. With consistent efforts, dedication, and a passion for Social Justice, aspirants can undoubtedly excel in this section of the UPSC Mains exam.
2023
- Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India.
- The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this inadequacy.
- Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO’ In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems.
- Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws.
- Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women’s effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India.
- “Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.
- Skill development programmes have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyse the linkages between education, skill and employment.
2022
- The Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous coordination between the government and the private sector to achieve the goal of connectivity. Discuss.
- The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 remains only a legal document without intense sensitisation of government functionaries and citizens regarding disability. Comment.
- Reforming the government delivery system through the Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme is a progressive step, but it has its limitations too. Comment.
- Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unemployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of society. Discuss.
- Do you agree with the view that increasing dependence on donor agencies for development reduces the importance of community participation in the development process? Justify your answer.
- The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains inadequate in promoting an incentive-based system for children’s education without generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse
2021
- Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.
- Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition to be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.
- “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and the feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu?
2020
- In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss.
- “Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine is aimed at asset creation and income security of the rural poor in India”. Evaluate the role of Self-Help Groups in achieving the twin objectives along with empowering women in rural India.
- National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement.
2019
- Despite Consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive.
- There is a growing divergence in the relationship between poverty and hunger in India. The shrinking of social expenditure by the government is forcing the poor to spend more on non-food essential items squeezing their food-budget – Elucidate.
2018
- Appropriate local community level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain.
- Multiplicity of various commissions for the vulnerable sections of the society leads to problems of overlapping jurisdiction and duplication of functions. Is it better to merge all commissions into an umbrella Human Rights Commission? Argue your case.
- The Citizen’s Charter is an ideal instrument of organisational transparency and accountability, but it has its own limitations. Identify the limitations and suggest measures for greater effectiveness of the Citizen’s Charters.
2017
- How do pressure groups influence the Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as more powerful than formal pressure groups in recent years? (150 words)
- ‘The emergence of Self Help Groups(SHGs) in contemporary times points to the slow but steady withdrawal of the state from developmental activities’. Examine the role of the SHGs in developmental activities and the measures taken by the Government of India to promote the SHGs. (250 words)
- Initially Civil Services in India were designed to achieve the goals of neutrality and effectiveness, which seems to be lacking in the present context. Do you agree with the view that drastic reforms are required in Civil Services. Comment (250 words)
2016
- Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance?
- In the integrity index of Transparency International, India stands very low. Discuss briefly the legal, political, social and cultural factors that have caused the decline of public morality in India.
- “Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture have hampered the process of socio-economic development in India.” Comment.
- “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable?
2015
- How can the role of NGOs be strengthened in India for development works relating to protection of the environment? Discuss throwing light on the major constraints.
- The quality of higher education in India requires major improvements to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of higher and technical education in the country? Discuss.
- Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that the private sector could help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives would you suggest?
- Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators.
2014
- The penetration of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in rural areas in promoting participation in development programmes is facing socio-cultural hurdles. Examine.
- An athlete participates in Olympics for personal triumph and nation’s glory; victors are showered with cash incentives by various agencies, on their return. Discuss the merit of state sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation as against the rationale of a reward mechanism as encouragement.
- Should the premier institutes like IITs/IIMs be allowed to retain premier status, allowed more academic independence in designing courses and also decide mode/criteria of selection of students. Discuss in light of the growing challenges.
2013
- Pressure group politics is sometimes seen as the informal face of politics. With regards to the above, assess the structure and functioning of pressure groups in India.
- The legitimacy and accountability of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and their patrons, the micro-finance outfits, need systematic assessment and scrutiny for the sustained success of the concept. Discuss.
- The basis of providing urban amenities in rural areas (PURA) is rooted in establishing connectivity. Comment.
- Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health. Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same.
- Though Citizen’s charters have been formulated by many public service delivery organizations, there is no corresponding improvement in the level of citizens’ satisfaction and quality of services being provided. Analyse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Question: Discuss the role of affirmative action in promoting social justice in India. (2017)
Answer: Affirmative action, as enshrined in the Indian Constitution through reservation policies, plays a pivotal role in addressing historical injustices and fostering social justice. These policies aim to uplift marginalized communities, ensuring their representation in education, employment, and politics. However, the efficacy of these measures is a subject of ongoing debate, with concerns about reverse discrimination and the need for a more nuanced approach.
2. Question: Evaluate the impact of economic reforms on social justice in India. (2014)
Answer: Economic reforms have brought about significant changes in India, impacting various sections of society differently. While these reforms have contributed to economic growth, there are concerns about widening income inequality and marginalization of certain groups. Social justice demands inclusive growth, and policymakers must address these disparities through targeted policies, ensuring that the benefits of development reach all sections of society.
3. Question: Analyze the challenges faced by vulnerable groups in accessing justice in India. (2019)
Answer: Vulnerable groups, such as women, children, and minorities, often face obstacles in accessing justice in India. Issues like procedural delays, social biases, and lack of awareness compound their challenges. Strengthening legal aid mechanisms, judicial reforms, and community-based initiatives are crucial in ensuring equitable access to justice for these groups and upholding the principles of social justice.
4. Question: To what extent has reservation of seats for women in local governance institutions contributed to social justice? (2016)
Answer: The reservation of seats for women in local governance, as mandated by the 73rd Amendment, has been a significant step towards social justice. It has empowered women, enhanced their political participation, and led to the addressing of gender-specific issues. However, challenges such as tokenism and inadequate implementation persist, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure genuine empowerment and social justice.
5. Question: Examine the role of technology in bridging the digital divide and promoting social justice in India. (2022)
Answer: Technology has the potential to bridge the digital divide and contribute to social justice by enhancing access to education, healthcare, and information. However, challenges such as unequal access to technology, digital illiteracy, and privacy concerns need to be addressed. Policymakers must focus on inclusive technology adoption, ensuring that the benefits reach all sections of society, especially those at the margins.
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