IAS foundation course syllabus

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INSTRUCTIONS FOR CANDIDATES
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Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions
:
• There are FOUR questions printed in ENGLISH.
• All the questions are compulsory.
• The number of marks carried by a question is indicated against it.
• Word limit in the questions, wherever specified should be adhered to.
• Content is more important than length.
• Any page or portion of the page, left blank in the Question-cum-Answer(QCA) Booklet
must be clearly struck off.
Candidate’s performance in the test would be evaluated on the basis of five parameters viz.
1.Understanding of the Questions.
2.Quality of Content in the Answers.
3.Decipherment of the Command.
4.Structuring of Arguements.
5.Presentation and Conclusion.
NOTE

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“Indian Society is institutionalized, multiclass, multi-ethnic and assimilative
in nature”-Elucidate.
Q. 1
10

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Discuss various evidences that substantiate the existence of Pangaea and indicate that
another one is impending.
Q. 2
10

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“The Industrial Revolution has two phases: one material, the other social; one
concerning the making of things, the other concerning the making of men.”-Comment.Q. 3
15

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Candidates
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With detailed illustrations and suitable examples highlight the differences between
‘Nagara’, ‘Dravida’ and ‘Vesara’ types of temple architecture.
Q. 4
15

EDEN IAS
(MODEL ANSWERS)
STEPS 18/06/2018- (General Studies-I)
Q1. “Indian Society is institutionalized, multiclass, multi-ethnic and assimilative in nature”-
Elucidate. (10)
Approach:
1) Try to focus on the various key words used in the question. There are four important key words
used in the question viz. ‘institutionalized’, ‘multiclass’,’ multi-ethnic’ and ‘assimilative’.
2) The Command of the question (in this case ‘Elucidate’) must not be missed. The answer should
be written in the light of the command. Otherwise it is a useless exercise. Elucidate means –‘To
explain or to make something appear more cogent and clear.’
3) It is only a ten-marker and hence content should be balanced in such a way that all key words
are given adequate and as much as possible equal space in your answer.
4) You can also provide some examples it would add more muscle to your arguments.
Answer:
India is a vast country and its society is highly evolved. Social life continues in India from the Indus Valley
Civilization around 2500 BC to the present day. During this very long period, Indian society has
undergone many changes; it assimilated many cultures and was influenced by many foreign societies. It
not only gave adequate space to everyone but also created an ecosystem where others can contribute
and flourish. Blood and kinship ties drive the Indian Social Fabric. Indian Society is highly
institutionalized, multiclass, multi-ethnic and assimilative in nature.
 Institutionalization: Indian society is institutionalized in nature in the form of well developed
systems like Family, Marriage, Gotra and Caste System. The Indian Social life is dominated and
crowded by institutions. An average Indian person traverses through these institutions at
different times, throughout the course of his life.
 Multi-class: Indian Society is multi-class in nature due to the coexistence of several classes in
India. These classes have both economic and social manifestations. The classes in India are not
only a direct outcome of unequal distribution of wealth but also due to denial of opportunity.
 Multi-Ethnic: Ethnicity is a biological concept that roughly relates to racial divisions. India has
seen bands of immigration and thus almost all the major ethnic groups are found in India. For
instance Negrito, Proto-astroloid, Nordic, Mongoloid, Western Brachycephals etc. However the
different races have intermingled in India to such an extent that to segregate one from the other
is almost impossible today. India is thus both Multi-Ethnic and mixed-blood society.
 Assimilative Society: Indian Society is assimilatory in nature. Throughout the history of India, it
absorbed many elements from foreign societies and enriched its own culture from time to time.
The tolerant nature of the Indian Society is responsible for such assimilation. People arrived in

India as merchants, rulers, invaders, traders, travelers, refugees etc. Indian not only welcomed
them but also imbibed some of their values to enrich Indian Culture and society.
Unity in Diversity is an inherent feature of the Indian society. Diversity in India exists at various levels
and in different forms. However, beneath this diversity, there is an underlying current of fundamental
unity in social institutions and practices.
Q2. Discuss various evidences that substantiate the existence of Pangaea and indicate that
another one is impending. (10)
Approach:
1) In the introduction try to give a brief explanation of Pangaea through Continental Drift of
Wegener, in not more than two to three lines. Do not waste your time in explaining the
continental drift theory. Address the true demand of the question. After all it is only a ten-
marker.
2) The question is just asking for evidences in support of the claim that Pangaea once existed, so
try to give as many evidences as you can.
3) Try to provide some illustrations to substantiate your evidences. Illustrations could be
diagrams, flowcharts, maps etc.
4) Finally through Plate- Tectonics and Sea Floor Spreading prove that another super continent is
impending.
Answer:
Pangaea or Pangea was a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic
eras. As per Alfred Wegener’s Continental Drift Theory it assembled from earlier continental units
approximately 335 million years ago, and it began to break apart about 175 million years ago In
contrast to the present Earth and its distribution of continental mass, much of Pangaea was in the
southern hemisphere and surrounded by a super-ocean, Panthalasa. Pangaea was the most recent
supercontinent to have existed and the first to be reconstructed by geologists. The following are some
of the evidences in support of the existence of Pangaea.
 Jig-Saw Fit: It has been noted that the coastlines of South America and West Africa seem to
match up, however more particularly the terrains of separate continents conform as well.
Examples include: the Appalachian Mountains of eastern North America linked with the Scottish
Highlands, the familiar rock strata of the Karroo system of South Africa matched correctly with
the Santa Catarina system in Brazil, and the Brazil and Ghana mountain ranges agreeing over the
Atlantic Ocean.
 Fossil remains: There are various examples of fossils found on separate continents and in no
other regions. This indicates that these continents had to be once joined together because the

extensive oceans between these land masses act as a type of barrier for fossil transfer. Four
fossil examples include: the Mesosaurus, Cynognathus, Lystrosaurus, and Glossopteris.
 Typical Behaviour of Lemmings: Lemmings are small animals in Scandinavia whenever there is
population pressure among lemmings they run towards the west as the Urals act as a barrier in
the east. However as they reach the Atlantic Shores they flounder in to the ocean. This typical
behaviour only proves that once land existed beyond that point.
 Gold Placer Deposits in Brazil: They are believed to be sourced from Africa and River Niger is
held responsible for such deposition. It is possible only when Africa and South America are
joined.
 Paleomagnetic evidence: The old rocks of Appalachians in North America and Kjollen in
Western Europe show striking Paleomagnetic similarity (Same Magnetic inclination or dip). This
proves that they were formed almost at the same latitude. This is possible only when they were
joined.
 Carboniferous Glaciations: Many parts like Africa and Peninsular India have traces of glacial
deposits. When one looks at their present climate such glaciations appears an extremely bleak
JIG SAW FIT

possibility. In fact Africa and Peninsular India were not only once joined but placed near the
South Pole (Part of Gondwanaland). The Modern city of Durban was located at the South Pole.
Fossil distribution, glacier-made scars and other lines of evidence tell us that at least three Pangea-
like supercontinents have occurred throughout the course of Earth's lifetime. There was Nuna,
which came together about 1.8 billion years ago. After it split apart, the continents recombined into
Rodinia roughly 800 million years later. Eventually, this too broke into fragments. Pangea
represented the next — and to date, most recent — reunion of Nuna and Rodinia's former
components. Going forward, the established pattern of drifting and merging will only continue. Plate
tectonics and Sea floor spreading have only added credence to the drift school. Among geologists,
the consensus is that a future Pangea-style supercontinent is going to form at some point within the
next 300 million years. What's debatable, though, is the manner in which that'll happen.
Q3. “The Industrial Revolution has two phases: one material, the other social; one concerning
the making of things, the other concerning the making of men.”-Comment. (15)
Approach:
1) The question has a dualistic nature and hence your answer should also incorporate such
dualism. In simple words, first comment on the material changes brought about by Industrial
revolution and then comment on the social repercussions that emanated out of the industrial
revolution.
2) The command used in the question should be deciphered properly. In this instance the
command that is used is ‘Comment”- which means to express an opinion or reaction in speech
or writing.
Answer:
The Industrial Revolution, which took place from the 18th to 19th centuries, was a period during which
predominantly agrarian, rural societies in Europe and America became industrial and urban.
Some of the Material changes brought about by industrial revolution were
 Commercialized production of goods: - Products were now made by machine and at much
faster pace. Thus it affected the price of goods and the goods became cheaper due to
economies of scale.
 Innovation and specialisation got a push: - Since mass production at cheaper rates was the
main aim of the industrialists as they wanted to create maximum profit innovation in technology
and machinery along with specialisation got an impetus during the industrial revolution. The
textile industry, in particular, was transformed by industrialization.
 Transportation and the Industrial Revolution: - The transportation industry also underwent
significant transformation during the Industrial Revolution. Before the advent of the steam
engine, raw materials and finished goods were hauled and distributed via horse-drawn wagons,
and by boats along canals and rivers.

 Communication in the Industrial Revolution: - Communication became easier during the
Industrial Revolution with such inventions as the telegraph. In 1837, two Brits, William Cooke
(1806-1879) and Charles Wheatstone (1802-1875), patented the first commercial electrical
telegraph. By 1840, railways were a Cooke-Wheatstone system, and in 1866, a telegraph cable
was successfully laid across the Atlantic.
 Banking and secondary markets in the Industrial Revolution: - The Industrial Revolution also
saw the rise of banks and industrial financiers, as well as a factory system dependent on owners
and managers. A stock exchange was established in London in the 1770s;
However with all these material developments the social sphere also transformed drastically.
Some of the social repercussions of the Industrial revolution were
 The emergence of Bourgeoisie: The Industrial Revolution brought about a greater volume and
variety of factory-produced goods and raised the standard of living for many people, particularly
for the middle classes.
 Capitalism was accepted as the model of growth: - An economic system based on profit, free
enterprise, the private ownership of means of production, and lack of government interference
was celebrated during the industrial revolution. The invisible hand of Adam Smith was ruling the
order.
 Poverty, hunger and inequality: - However, life for the poor and working classes continued to
be filled with challenges. Wages for those who labored in factories were low and working
conditions could be dangerous and monotonous. Unskilled workers had little job security and
were easily replaceable. Children were part of the labor force and often worked long hours and
were used for such highly hazardous tasks as cleaning the machinery.
 Lack of hygiene and diseases: - Additionally, urban, industrialized areas were unable to keep
pace with the flow of arriving workers from the countryside, resulting in inadequate,
overcrowded housing and polluted, unsanitary living conditions in which disease was rampant.
 Stage set for emergence of socialism: - Conditions for Britain’s working-class began to gradually
improve by the later part of the 19th century, as the government instituted various labor
reforms and workers gained the right to form trade unions.
Prior to the Industrial Revolution, which began in Britain in the late 1700s, manufacturing was often
done in people’s homes, using hand tools or basic machines. Industrialization marked a shift to
powered, special-purpose machinery, factories and mass production. The iron and textile industries,
along with the development of the steam engine, played central roles in the Industrial Revolution, which
also saw improved systems of transportation, communication and banking. While industrialization
brought about an increased volume and variety of manufactured goods and an improved standard of
living for some, it also resulted in often grim employment and living conditions for the poor and working
classes.

Q4. With detailed illustrations and suitable examples highlight the differences between
‘Nagara’, ‘Dravida’ and ‘Vesara’ types of temple architecture. (15)
Approach:
1) The question calls for detailed illustrations and thus it is expected from the aspirant to draw
some diagrams or charts while explaining the various features of the Nagara, Dravida and
Vesara types of temple architecture.
2) The command should be deciphered correctly which in this case is ‘Highlight’. Highlight means
to draw special attention or notice towards something, either by speech, written records or
visual dimensions.
3) It also calls for suitable examples and thus you should provide relevant examples of the three
types in your answer.
4) In conclusion you can either write about the impact of socio-economic life on temple
architecture or conclude with some similarities that exist between the three types of temple
architecture.
Note: Here I am providing some extra information as well which will address your requirements
regarding this topic.
Answer:
A number of architectural texts known as the Shilpashastras were written in early medieval times. These
refer to three major styles of temple architecture, Nagara, Dravida, and Vesara. The
 Nagara style is associated with the land between the Himalayas and Vindhyas.
 Dravida style with the land between the Krishna and Kaveri rivers,
 Vesara style is sometimes associated with the area between the Vindhyas and the Krishna river.
Main elements of Hindu Temples
 Garbhagriha
 Literally means ‘womb-house’ and is a cave like sanctum. Garbhagriha
is made to house the main icon (main deity)
 Mandapa
 It is the entrance to the temple. May be a portico or colonnaded
(series of columns placed at regular intervals) hall that incorporate
space for a large number of worshipers
 Some temples have multiple mandapas in different sizes named as
Ardhamandapa, Mandapa and Mahamandapa
 Shikhara or
Vimana
 They are mountain like spire of a free standing temple. Shikhara is
found in North Indian temples and Vimana is found in South Indian
temples. Shikhara has a curving shape while vimana has a pyramidal

like structure
 Amalaka
 A stone disc like structure at the top of the temple shikara.
 Kalasha
 Topmost point of the temple above Amalaka.
 Antarala
(vestibule)
 A transition area between the Garbhagriha and the temple’s main hall
(mandapa).
 Jagati
 A raised platform for sitting and praying.
 Vahana
 Vehicle of the temple’s main deity along with a standard pillar
or Dhvaj.
NAGARA STYLE
The Nagara style has its origin in the structural temples of the Gupta period, especially the Dashavtara
temple of Deogarh and the brick temple of Bhitargaon.
Two distinct features of the Nagara style are – planning and other elevation. The plan is square with a
number of gradual projections in the middle of each side which imparts it a cruciform shape. When
there is one projection on each side, it is called ‘triratha’, two projections – ‘Pancharatha’, three
projections – ‘Saptharatha’ and four projections –‘Navaratha’. These projections can occur throughout
the height of the structure. In elevation it exhibits a tower (shikhara) gradually inclining towards in a
convex curve. The projections in the plan are also carried upwards to the top of the shikhara. It is also
called the rekha shikhara.
In Nagara style temples, the structure consists of two buildings, the main shrine taller and an adjoining
shorter mandapa. The main difference between these two is the shape of the shikhara. In the main
shrine, a bell shaped structure further adds to the height. In this style, the temples mainly are formed of
four chambers, first the ‘Garbhagriha’, then second Jagmohan’, third ‘Natyamandir’ and fourth
chamber the ‘Bhogamandir’. Originally in Nagara style there were no pillars.
DRAVIDA STYLE
The Dravida Architectural style is associated with the temples of southern India or Deccan. The earliest
traces of Dravida architectural features go back to Gupta period and are not restricted to the far south
i.e. in Gupta period these traces occur in northern and central India along with Deccan, like in the
Parvati temple at Lad Khan, Kont Gudi and Meguti temples at Aihole.
The outstanding and the common characteristics of the Dravida style is the pyramidal elevation of the
tower (vimari), which consists of a multiplication of storey after storey slightly reduced than the one
below, ending in a domical member, technically known as the stupi or stupica.

The two most important characteristics of Dravida temple architecture is:
1) Temples of this style has more than 4 sides in the sanctum.
2) Tower or Vimana of these temples are pyramidal.
In different temples ‘dedicated pavilions’ can be seen like Shiva temples have dedicated mandapa of
‘Nandi’ the bull or Vishnu temples have ‘garuda mandapa’. Boundary walls in south Indian temples
were built in early medieval period where north Indian temples were not walled.
The Kailasanatha temple is a major example of the Dravida Architecture. The Kailasanatha
temple complex is situated at Kanchi as a joint venture of Rajasimha or Narasimhavarman II
and his son Mahendra III.
VESARA STYLE
 It emerged during early medieval period. It is a hybrid style that borrowed from the
northern and southern styles. So, it is a mixture of both Nagara and Dravida styles of
temple architecture.
 Temples built in the Deccan under the later Chalukyas of Kalyani and Hoysalas are
considered examples of this style. Vesara style reduces the height of the temple towers
even though the numbers of tiers are retained. This is accomplished by reducing the
height of individual tiers.
 The semi circular structures of the Buddhist chaityas are also borrowed in this style, as
in the Durga temple of Aihole. Many temples in Central India and Deccan have used the
Vesara style with regional modifications. The trend of merging two styles was started by
the Chalukyas of Badami (500-735 AD) who built temples in a style that was essentially a
mixture of the Nagara and Dravida styles, further refined by the Rashtrakutas of
Manyakheta (750-983 AD) in Ellora, Chalukyas of Kalyani (983-1195 AD) in Lakkundi,
Dambal, Gadag etc. and epitomized by the Hoysalas (1000-1330 AD).
 Most of the temples built in Halebid, Belur and Somanathapura are classified under this
style.

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“The Constitutional guarantee of a Welfare State in India shall remain elusive unless
the state plays a positively discriminatory role with respect to the rights of the dis
abled.”-Comment.
Q. 1
10

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What are the factors that create an imbalance of power within a culture? How can they
act as a hurdle in the delivery of social justice.
Q. 2
10

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“The South Asian region is geopolitically fragile hence India should play a leading role
in the region.”- Critically Examine.Q. 3
15

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“The Doctrine of Colorable legislation as enunciated by the Supreme Court of India is
a bulwark against any constitutional fraud”. Elucidate.
Q. 4
15

EDEN IAS
(MODEL ANSWERS)
STEPS 19/06/2018- (General Studies-II)
Q1. “The Constitutional guarantee of a Welfare State in India shall remain elusive unless the state
plays a positively discriminatory role with respect to the rights of the disabled.”-Comment.
Approach:
1) First and foremost spell the idea of Welfare State in as many words as possible within the given
time and space constraints.
2) Highlight the idea of affirmative action and positive discrimination.
3) Try to link these two concepts viz. Welfare state and Affirmative action with the various
challenges faced by the disabled.
Answer:
According to Aristotle, the state was a means to fulfill certain fundamental needs of human
nature and was an instrument for development of individuals’ personality in association of fellow
citizens.
A welfare state is a concept of government where the state plays a key role in the protection and
promotion of the economic and social well-being of its citizens. It is based on the principles of equality
of opportunity, equitable distribution of wealth, and public responsibility for those unable to avail
themselves of the minimal provisions for a good life.
Affirmative action, also known as positive action is the policy of protecting members of groups that are
known to have previously suffered from discrimination. Affirmative action has sought to achieve goals
such as bridging inequalities in employment and pay, increasing access to education, promoting
diversity, and redressing apparent past wrongs, harms, or hindrances.
The newly published report by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) titled
'Disability report: Being disabled’ has clearly outlined that very little progress has being made
over the past two decades. Things are still very challenging for people with disabilities and, in
many cases, getting worse.
The report highlights concerns in areas including:
 A lack of equal opportunities in education and employment.
 Barriers to access to transport.
 Health services and housing.
 The persistent and widening disability pay gap.

 Deteriorating access to justice.
 Welfare reforms significantly affecting the already low living standards of disabled
people.
Welfare state can also mean the creation of a "social safety net" of minimum standards of varying
forms of welfare. The idea of Welfare will remain elusive unless disability is treated with affirmative
action. The state while making such laws must keep in mind that both physical and mental disability
along with various degrees of disability is given adequate leverage and space.
Q2. What are the factors that create an imbalance of power within a culture? How can they act as a
hurdle in the delivery of social justice?
Approach:
1) Systematically highlight the various factors that create an imbalance of power within a culture.
2) Discuss the idea and motive behind Social Justice.
3) Finally point out how such power-imbalances can lead to a stigma and limitations.
Answer:
There are many factors that create an imbalance of power in a culture. Most of the factors and values
are so deeply ingrained in our society that we go along with them without ever questioning if they are
'right' or not. For example, gender roles and uneven opportunities for children. Gender roles are a large
problem in our society that many people aren't aware of. This is a problem all over the world, including
India.
Imbalance of power within a culture may also arise from prejudice, caste-based, class-based, region-
based, religion-based or race-based disabilities. Social discrimination is defined as sustained inequality
between individuals on the basis of illness, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or any other measures
of diversity.
Any number of diverse factors, including those mentioned above, but also education, social class,
political affiliation, beliefs, or other characteristics can lead to discriminatory behaviours, especially by
those who may have a degree of power in their hands. This often produces a stigmatized attitudinal and
behavioural power equation which can distort the heart and soul of social justice.
Social justice is aimed at promoting a society which is just and equitable, valuing diversity, providing
equal opportunities to all its members, irrespective of their disability, ethnicities, gender, age, sexual
orientation or religion, and ensuring fair allocation of resources and support for their human rights.
Stigma is a prejudiced attitude and is readily applied to people who suffer from manufactured
disabilities and limitations. In-fact widespread insidious and pervasive stigma leads to discriminatory
attitudes and practices. Stigma can also explain widespread negative attitudes and behaviours, as well
as negative cognitions and structures which create and perpetuate inequities.

Q3. “The South Asian region is geopolitically fragile hence India should play a leading role in the
region.”- Critically Examine. (15)
Approach:
1) Highlight the stakes of India in the geopolitically fragile South Asian region.
2) Discuss some of the institutions and how India can use the existing institutional framework to
further her objectives in the region.
3) Finally before you draw attention of the evaluator towards the volatility and unpredictability of
foreign policy in the 21st
Century.
Answer:
Since Independence, India has played a leading role in multilateral fora. It was a founder member of
NAM (Non Aligned Movement), SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), BIMSTEC
(Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation), BRICS (Brazil, Russia,
India, China and South Africa), and BCIM (Bangladesh, China, India and Myanmar). However nowhere
else the Indian stakes are as high as in South Asian regional politics. Indian regional security and
economic growth is intertwined with the future of South Asia.
Combined with the simultaneous re-emergence of powers like China, Korea, Indonesia and others, and
with Japan now behaving as a more normal power, geopolitics around southern Asia has become much
more complex. Power is much more evenly distributed in the world than it was during the Cold War and
immediately thereafter. The centre of gravity of the world economy and politics is now the Asia-Pacific.
According to Harsh V. Pant, “The ‘Great Game of this century will be played on the waters of the Indian
Ocean. Though India’s location gives it great operational advantages in the IOR, it is by no means certain
that New Delhi is in a position to hold on to its geographical advantages. China is rapidly catching up and
its ties with Sri Lanka are aimed at expanding its profile in this crucial part of the world. Indian
policymakers realize that unless they are more proactive they might end up losing this ‘game’ for good”
India’s stakes in SAARC are, if anything, higher. It is the most important country in South Asia, and India
was the progenitor of the idea of a primarily economic grouping of countries of South Asia. Admittedly,
SAARC has been on ‘life-support’ for much of the period, but had begun to display a new vigour and
dynamism of late. To undermine SAARC due to the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan may
well be an instance of ‘throwing the baby out with the bathwater’.
International diplomacy is hardly a ‘zero-sum game’. It has become even more complicated with the
passage of time. Hence, giving a new direction to the country’s foreign policy demands careful
consideration and assessment of all relevant aspects. Systemic, national and decision-making factors
must determine foreign policy choices. Maintaining coherence and balance is also a vital aspect.

Undoubtedly, India’s foreign policy has to evolve in keeping with the changes and shifts taking place
across the globe and especially in South Asia. Permanence in relations, and consistency in alignments, is
not a signal virtue in the world of the 21st century. Not all relationships can or should be regarded as
cast in stone, and impervious to change. This applies equally to ideologies. Nevertheless changes, if any,
must not take place in an episodic manner, or as a series of isolated steps.
Q4. “The Doctrine of Colorable legislation as enunciated by the Supreme Court of India is a bulwark
against any constitutional fraud”. Elucidate. (15)
Approach:
1) Elaborate the Doctrine of Colorable legislation. Draw its relationship with the Theory of
Separation of Powers.
2) Highlight the limitations of this Doctrine.
3) Discuss how it is a Fraud on the Constitution. In other words how it breaks the spirit of the
constitution by making a mockery of Constitutionalism and Constitutional limitations.
Answer:
Doctrine of Colorable Legislation is built upon the founding stones of the Doctrine of Separation of
Power. Separation of Power mandates that a balance of power is to be struck between the different
components of the State i.e. between the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary. The Primary
Function of the legislature is to make laws. Whenever, Legislature tries to shift this balance of power
towards itself then the Doctrine of Colorable Legislation is attracted to take care of Legislative
Accountability.
The literal meaning of Colorable Legislation is that under the ‘color’ or ‘guise’ of power conferred for
one particular purpose, the legislature cannot seek to achieve some other purpose which it is otherwise
not competent to legislate on.
This Doctrine also traces its origin to a Latin Maxim:
“Quando aliquid prohibetur ex directo, prohibetur et per obliquum”
This maxim implies that “when anything is prohibited directly, it is also prohibited indirectly”. In
common parlance, it is meant to be understood as “Whatever legislature can’t do directly, it can’t do
indirectly”. One of the most cogent and lucid explanations relating to this doctrine was given in the case
of K.C. Gajapati Narayana Deo and Others v. The State Of Odisha.
Colorable Legislation’ has been applied in certain judicial pronouncements. The idea conveyed by the
expression is that although apparently a legislature in passing a statute purported to act within the
limits of its powers, yet in substance and in reality it transgressed these powers, the transgression
being veiled by what appears, on proper examination, to be a mere presence or disguise.

Limitations on the Application of Doctrine of Colorable Legislation
1. The doctrine has no application where the powers of a Legislature are not fettered by any
Constitutional limitation.
2. The doctrine is also not applicable to Subordinate Legislation.
3. The doctrine of colourable legislation does not involve any question of bona fides or mala fides on the
part of the legislature. The whole doctrine resolves itself into the, question of competency of a
particular legislature to enact a particular law.
This Doctrine is also called as “Fraud on the Constitution”. The failure to comply with a Constitutional
condition for the exercise of legislative power may be overt or it may be covert. When it is overt, we say
the law is obviously bad for non- compliance with the requirements of the Constitution, that is to say,
the law is ultra vires. When, however, the non-compliance is covert, we say that it is a ‘fraud on the
Constitution’; the fraud complained of being that the Legislature pretends to act within its power
while in fact it is not so doing. Therefore, the charge of ‘fraud on the Constitution’ is, on ultimate
analysis, nothing but a picturesque and epigrammatic way of expressing the idea of non-compliance
with the terms of the Constitution.

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To what extent land reforms in India has fulfilled the cherished idea of restructing of
agrarian equations and elimination of exploitation in land relations. Discuss.
Q. 1
10

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“Extensive growth of information technology has changed the communication
conscious human society into, an information global community.”- ElaborateQ. 2
10

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Highlight the various causes responsible for the spread of left wing extremism.
Suggest a methodology and strategy that the Indian state should adopt against
Naxalism.
Q. 3
15

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“Mobilizing is the method of assembling and organizing things to use
immediately or for a achieving a collective goal.”- In the light of the above statement
present a systematic account on the mobilization of natural resources in India.
Q. 4
15

EDEN IAS
(MODEL ANSWERS)
STEPS – (20/06/2018) - WEDNESDAY – (GS III)
Q1. To what extent land reforms in India has fulfilled the cherished idea of restructuring of agrarian
equations and elimination of exploitation in land relations. Discuss. (10)
Approach:
1) Discuss the idea of land reforms and its relevance in the Indian Context.
2) No need of explaining the individual legislations dealing with land-reforms. As it is only a ten
marker thus lay out the broad objectives of Land reforms in India.
3) Highlight the shortcomings in your conclusion and try to end with a thought that summarizes
everything in a nut-shell.
Answer:
Land reform usually refers to redistribution of land from the rich to the poor. More broadly, it includes
regulation of ownership, operation, leasing, sales, and inheritance of land. In an agrarian economy like
India with great scarcity, and an unequal distribution, of land, coupled with a large mass of the rural
population below the poverty line, there are compelling economic and political arguments for land
reform. Not surprisingly, it received top priority on the policy agenda at the time of Independence. In
the decades following independence India passed a significant body of land reform legislation. The 1949
Constitution left the adoption and implementation of land and tenancy reforms to state governments.
This led to a lot of variation in the implementation of these reforms across states and over time, a fact
that has been utilized in empirical studies trying to understand the causes and effects of land reform.
The major objectives of land reforms in India included
i. Restructuring of agrarian relations to achieve an egalitarian structure;
ii. Elimination of exploitation in land relations;
iii. Actualization of the goal of “land to the tiller”;
iv. Improvement of socio-economic conditions of the rural poor by widening their land base;
v. Increasing agricultural production and productivity;
vi. Facilitating land-based development of rural poor; and
vii. Infusion of a great measure of equality in local institutions.
In fine, growth and socio-economic justice were the basic objectives of land reform measures. After
more than 70 years of independence, one notices some achievements in the sphere of land reforms. At
the same time, our efforts in this direction have not yielded desired results. Most of the planks of land

reform measures are ambivalent and there are large gaps between policy and legislation and between
legislation and implementation. One can safely say that
“Land reform measures were conceived boldly but were implemented badly”
Q2. “Extensive growth of information technology has changed the communication conscious human
society into, an information global community.”- Elaborate. (10)
Approach:
1) Highlight the importance of information and communication in today’s world.
2) Discuss how it is creating a paradigm shift in the way things are perceived and conducted.
3) Try to end your answer by invoking some sense of caution.
Answer:
In the past few decades there has been a revolution in computing and communications, and all
indications are that technological progress and use of information technology will continue at a rapid
pace. Accompanying and supporting the dramatic increases in the power and use of new information
technologies has been the declining cost of communications as a result of both technological
improvements and increased competition.
One of the most significant outcomes of the progress of information technology is probably electronic
commerce over the Internet, a new way of conducting business. Though only a few years old, it may
radically alter economic activities and the social environment. Already, it affects such large sectors as
communications, finance and retail trade and might expand to areas such as education and health
services. It implies the seamless application of information and communication technology along the
entire value chain of a business that is conducted electronically.
With the advent of Technology, world has observed a great change in the life of human being. It is true
that technology is transforming various aspects of our life all over the world by leaps and bounds, and it
seems that masses of India are not going to be excluded from the benevolence of this so called
‘Technology’. From the government to huge corporations, everyone wants to computerize all the
villages in the country. Think technology and a virtual computer is right there in front of you.
All these developments have greatly impacted the global community, it has enriched the methodologies
in which goods and services are exchanged. It has impacted labour markets, education, businesses,
power-equations and has helped in mobilizing human resources. Today the world has been translated
into a global information community where communication technologies and information quality is
propelling and shaping the future.
The ongoing computing and communications revolution has numerous economic and social impacts on
modern society and requires serious social science investigation in order to manage its risks and
dangers. Such work would be valuable for both social policy and technology design. Decisions have to be
taken carefully. Many choices being made now will be costly or difficult to modify in the future.

Q3. Highlight the various causes responsible for the spread of left wing extremism. Suggest a
methodology and strategy that the Indian state should adopt against Naxalism. (15)
Approach:
1) Highlight the various reasons for the spread and growth of Naxalism in India.
2) Try to provide a strategy to counter Left wing Extremism.
Answer:
Naxalites owing allegiance to the Communist Party of India (Maoist) have been waging a deadly
insurrection against the Indian state with the ultimate objective of capturing political power through
protracted armed struggle and area-wise seizure of power.
According to official sources, the influence of the Naxalites exists in 162 districts across 14 States in
varying degrees. Further, there have been reports to suggest the Maoists are making fervent attempts
to penetrate the industrial towns. What’s probably worrying the government is that the Naxals are
targeting the poor to get their recruits and there is no dearth of the poor in India.
The spread of Naxalism is an indication of the sense of desperation and alienation that is sweeping over
of large sections of our nation who have been not only systematically marginalized but cruelly exploited
and dispossessed in their last homelands…the central Indian adivasis have been described as “the
original autochthonous people of India” meaning that their presence in India pre-dated the Dravidians,
the Aryans and whoever else settled in this country…these are the real swadeshi products of India, in
whose presence all others are foreign. These are ancient people with moral rights and claims thousands
of years old. They were here first and should come first in our regard…Unfortunately like indigenous
people all over the world; the India’s adivasis too have been savaged and ravaged by later people
claiming to be more ‘civilized’.
Poverty, lack of land reforms, caste discrimination and oppression and denial of access to justice push
the Dalits closer to the Naxals. The concentration of Dalit populations in the Naxalite affected areas in
India is quite high. If the Indian state needs to counter this challenge it should come up with an
integrated strategy. The broad outlines of such a policy can be spelled as under:
1. Gain confidence of local people by taking up more welfare related activities.
2. Build up infrastructure in naxal-affected areas and generate employment.
3. Launch joint security operations with neighbouring states to eliminate left wing extremists.
We need a prudent mix of strong defense strategy, with the state police in the lead role, and a wise
political dialogue between stakeholders. India is growing at a high pace, with new opportunities waiting

for the nation in the near future. We surely cannot afford to lose human life and resources to such
unrest caused by a lack of proper strategy.
Q4. “Mobilizing is the method of assembling and organizing things to use immediately or for achieving
a collective goal.”- In the light of the above statement present a systematic account on the mobilization
of natural resources in India. (15)
Approach:
1) Highlight the importance of Mobilization of resources.
2) Try to highlight the vulnerabilities and link it to growth and development.
Answer:

Mobilizing is the process of assembling and organizing things for ready use or for a achieving a collective
goal. Mobilization of resources means the freeing up of locked resources.
Every country has economic resources within its territory known as domestic resources. But often they
might not be available for collective use. The percentage of resources used when compared to the
potential is often very low. For a country to grow, identification and mobilization of its resources is
necessary. It should be available for easy use and for central and state level planning.
Types of Resources of India
1) Natural Resources – Coal, Petroleum, Natural Gas, Water, Spectrum etc.
2) Human Resources – The labour force and intellectual capacity of a nation.
The proper utilization of these resources leads to generation of economic resources – savings,
investment capital, tax etc. The natural resource sector has been passing through a challenging phase in
India. Blanket bans and clearance delays have brought it to a non-sustainable position today. Even with
an abundance of rich mineral reserves and resources, we are not able to capitalise on it for our
economic strength. However in India mobilization has not taken the desired shape due to host of
reasons like- lack of technology, lack of capital, improper and unsustainable extraction techniques, bad
distribution, lack of innovation, over emphasis on top-down planning etc.
For instance water, a vital natural resource and precious commodity, is essential for multiplicity of
purposes, viz., drinking, agriculture, power generation, transportation and waste disposal. In chemical
processes industrial water is used as a reaction medium, a solvent, a scrubbing medium and a heat
transfer agent. As a source of life for man, plants and animals, it is indispensable and cannot be replaced
by any other solvent. However India has not utilized its water potential and many parts of the country
suffer from water scarcity.
Degradation of natural resources has a direct negative bearing on livelihoods of poor people. However,
experience from India shows that improvements in resource productivity per se cannot be equated with
poverty reduction. As an example, several years of watershed development programmes has illustrated
that the poor have often been excluded from accessing gains in productivity as well as related decision-
making processes.
Understanding poverty and vulnerability, and particularly the link between natural resource
management and poverty, would be an essential pre-requisite to achieve growth and prosperity.
Poverty analysis needs to be built into project design and mechanisms developed to identify and include
the poor, address their concerns and link this to strategic and policy issues. Hence when it comes to
mobilization and utilization of natural resources in India power should be invested in local and regional
government. The people should be made in charge of natural resources through responsible institutions.
Lack of mobilization of the natural resources can derail the economy and create social tensions.

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“A man does what he must - in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles,
dangers and pressures - and that is the basis of all human morality and ethics.”-Analyse.
Q. 1
10

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“Action indeed is the sole medium of expression for ethics.”-Elucidate.
Q. 2
10

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“Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is
right to do.”-Comment.Q. 3
10

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It has been reported in media that in a remote village in Chhattisgarh people belonging
to a particular community still practice manual scavenging. After being inquired they
told the media persons that they have been practicing it for ages and it has been their
traditional occupation. Some others argue as they lack any other source of regular
livelihood, they are left with no other alternative. Most of them are unaware of the
Prohibition of Employment (As Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation)
Act, 2013.
a) Suppose you are the Social Welfare Development Officer of the district then what
steps will you take?
b) Discuss the various ethical dimensions of such a problem.
Q. 4
20

EDEN IAS
(MODEL ANSWERS)
STEPS 21/06/2018- (General Studies-IV)
Q1) “A man does what he must - in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles,
dangers and pressures - and that is the basis of all human morality and ethics.”-Analyse. (10)
Approach:
1) Try to explain the statement, highlight the different key words used in the question
2) Try to show that how ethical behaviour and morality is inextricably linked to the
statement.
3) Finally try to provide some examples quoting moral and/or social thinkers.
Answer:
"A man does what he must - in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles and
dangers and pressures - and that is the basis of all human morality." - John F. Kennedy
Ethics is the philosophical treatise which studies human behaviour and tries to determine what
is right or wrong behaviour. It is also called moral philosophy. That there is in man a
spontaneous awareness of a distinction between ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ behaviour is an indubitable
fact, the internal value system and ethics only explores that part of the human mind.
Ethics as a speculative science is based on the foundations of the moral behavior of man. Moral
consciousness is an undeniable fact of human experience. The moral and ethical sensibility is
something essential for the peaceful society and the work.
Socrates equated knowledge with virtue, which ultimately leads to ethical conduct. He believed
that the only life worth living was one that was rigorously examined. He looked for principles
and actions that were worth living by, creating an ethical base upon which decisions should be
made. The base of all ethical conduct is righteousness and humanity. A man must be ready to
withstand against allurement, inducement or coercion if he has to exhibit ethical conduct. His
internal construct should always guide the moral compass towards morality and ethics.
Q2) “Action indeed is the sole medium of expression for ethics.”-Elucidate. (10)
Approach:

1) Try to clarify the statement in unequivocal terms that how action is the only medium of
expression of ethics.
2) Try to give some examples from your own experiences.
3) Before you conclude try to juxtapose your arguments with some thoughts drawn from
moral/social thinkers.
Answer:
All definitions of ethics suggest that it focuses on human actions and their morality. It is concerned with
the morality of human behavior. But first it is important to separate human actions from their morality.
The major focus of ethics is on human actions; this also happens to be the starting point for most legal
systems. They are primarily interested in human actions and, following that, in their legality or illegality.
Ethics, then, does not concern itself with the actions of animals. Furthermore, ethics focuses only on
people's deliberate human actions, and not on undeliberate actions or actions done because of
ignorance. The distinction here is between what philosophers call an actus humanus (deliberate human
action) and an actus hominis (undeliberate action). What is it that makes an action human? What are
the principal ingredients of a human action? Lawyers also focus on this issue. Deontologists use criteria
to arrive at the notion of a human action while teleologists reflect on the merits of a particular action.
Both may arrive at the same conclusion, but they also may not. Scholastic philosophers maintain that
three requirements must be concurrently present for any action to be ethical and human:
(1) There must be some knowledge involved;
(2) There must be voluntariness present;
(3) The action must be freely done by keeping the ethical principles at the core.
Ethics focuses not only on human action but also on its morality. Once we decide that an action is
human, then that action becomes subject matter for ethics. It is an important function of ethics to figure
out whether particular human actions are moral or not. Morality involves the examination of human
action to decide if it is good, bad or indifferent—to figure out if it is right or wrong, good or bad.
Ethics is in fact a ‘reverence of life’ as quoted by Albert Schweitzer, and therefore it is not always
necessary that action needs to take place in order to express ethics. Ethics can exist within the
soul/mind of an individual, and therefore it is not always the action part that defines it.
Q3) “Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right
to do.”-Comment. (10)
Approach:
1) Try to highlight various kinds of rights that the society or law confers upon you.
2) Compare them with ethical righteousness and values system.
Answer:

Ethics is the body of principles used to decide what behaviors are right, good and proper. Such
principles (ethics) do not always dictate a single "moral" course of action, but provide a means of
evaluating and deciding among competing options. Ethics is about putting principles into action.
Consistency between what we say we value and what our actions say we value is a matter of integrity.
Ethics is also about self-restraint, i.e., what we should not do:
 Not doing what you have the power to do. An act isn’t proper simply because it is permissible
or you can get away with it.
 Not doing what you have the right to do. There is a big difference between what you have the
right to do and what is right to do.
 Not doing what you want to do. In the well-worn turn of phrase, an ethical person often
chooses to do more than the law requires and less than the law allows.
It has been said that:
“Ethics is all about what we do when no one is looking. Ethics is knowing the difference
between what you have a right to do and what is right to do.”
Ethics is about creating an environment that supports the expression of ethical values while
keeping in check non-ethical values. Is there a situation when you thought you had the right to
do something but it was against the law or established policy? An example I can think of are
people who chose to drink and drive, they know it’s against the law, but they feel that they
have a right to still do it because they can “handle it.” Or, I can come into work a couple of
minutes late because I don’t take my breaks. It’s easy to justify why we break the little rules.
An action can be legally correct but ethically wrong, The one common thread is “what we do.”
Ethics is all about actions and decisions. We face many challenges in life and the way we handle
them speaks volumes about our character. In the end, our character embodies our values and is
the sum of our behaviors.
Suggestions for making ethical decisions:
• Identify the core ethical issue or issues involved;
• Make sure you understand the facts;
• Identify the main players in this issue and see if you can identify their interests;
• List the values at stake or in conflict in this matter;
• Examine the possible options and their likely consequences;
• Choose the option you think best caters for the values and principles you believe
to be important;
• Give reasons (to yourself or others) why you have chosen this option and show
why it is a better resolution of the issue than the other options;
• Make your decision, but keep an open mind.

Q4) It has been reported in media, that in a remote village in Chhattisgarh, people belonging to
a particular community still practice manual scavenging. After being inquired they told the
media persons that they have been practicing it for ages and it has been their traditional
occupation. Some others argue as they lack any other source of regular livelihood, they are left
with no other alternative. Most of them are unaware of the Prohibition of Employment (As
Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation) Act, 2013. (20)
a) Suppose you are the Social Welfare Development Officer of the district, then what steps will
you take?
b) Discuss the various ethical dimensions of such a situation.
Approach:
1) First highlight the various facts given in the question
2) Describe the different ethical values
3) Discuss the various stakeholders who are involved
4) Scrutinize the various ethical options that are available.
Answer:
a) As a District Social Welfare Development officer, following steps can be adopted:
 Cleaning of septic tanks and sewers without protective gear is prohibited under ‘Prohibition of
Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013’. This can be monitored
through vigilance committees at sub-division and division level and implement the penal
provisions of the Act, especially those regarding contractors and private persons who hire
persons for doing such work without taking the precautions as mandated in the Act and rules
framed under it.
 Mobilise the district administration to take steps for total mechanization of cleaning of septic
tanks and sewers.
 Provision of construction of adequate number of sanitary community latrines in urban areas,
within three years from the date of commencement of this Act to eliminate the practice of open
defecation. This can be expedited through effective implementation of SWACHCH BHARAT
MISSION (RURAL/URBAN).
 Adopting camp approach for mobilization of the target group and readying them to avail the
benefits of government Schemes for their rehabilitation in alternate dignified occupations. In
these camps, apart from the manual scavengers and their dependents, various concerned
departments of the State, training providers, representatives of banks and NGOs are invited. All

the stakeholders are made aware of the benefits to be provided to the target group and
motivated to provide all possible cooperation and assistance for rehabilitation of manual
scavengers and their dependents.
 Self Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS), with the objective
to rehabilitate remaining manual scavengers and their dependents in alternative occupations, in
a time bound manner. The responsibility of rehabilitation of the identified manual scavengers to
the National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation. Thus, the manual
scavengers can be provided easy access to micro credit through it to start micro and small
business like handicrafts.
 Monitoring the timely implementation of Scheme of Pre Matric Scholarship scheme to the
Children of those engaged in Occupations involving cleaning and prone to health hazards, under
which the children of manual scavengers are provided scholarships.
 Spreading awareness :-
 Social persuasion can be used to attract them towards the better prospects and benefits of
improved standard of living.
 Identification of Change Agents within their community who can persuade others to leave work
of manual scavenging.
 Visiting of successful SHG or entrepreneurs in their community to provide exposure of better
avenues of alternative employment.
 As the government has banned it and made it as punishable offence, they can be even warned
to not practice manual scavenging. So out of fear of punishment also, they may stop doing it.
 Make them participant in SWACHCH BHARAT MISSION (RURAL) for attitudinal changes.
b) The various ethical dimensions
The various ethical values that are involved include -Human dignity/livelihood with dignity,
Respect, Social justice/govt's responsibility. The issue of social and economic justice is
paramount in this. Social justice refers to the just society where equals are treated equally with
just allocation of resources. John Rawl introduced the theory of ''veil of ignorance'' while
deciding the rules and regulations for society's functioning. Morality affects social life and
protects human dignity.
Dignity is the right of a person to be valued and respected for their own sake, and to be treated
ethically. It is of significance in morality, ethics, law and politics as an extension of the
Enlightenment-era concepts of inherent, inalienable rights. Violations of human dignity in terms
of humiliation refer to acts that humiliate or diminish the self-worth of a person or a group.
The various stake holders that are involved include Manual scavengers and their families,
Welfare officer and Government administration and society at large. Hence all should work
towards a meaningful and dignified change.

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“Cauvery water dispute case is a classic example showcasing complicated scenario
of river water management and governance in India”-Elucidate.
Q. 1
10

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“If India is to develop in a sustainable fashion and in an equitable manner, then
bio-fuels must be an important component of the energy-mix.”-Comment.
Q. 2
10

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“As a talent scout for the government, UPSC’s experience is unmatched. Its
constitutional authority enables it to be independent, fair and capable of resisting
undue pressures and influences.”- In the light of the above statement discuss the
issue of lateral entry into civil services.
Q. 3
15

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“The Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) as invoked by RBI can only produce transient
results, it is no panacea.”- Critically Examine.
Q. 4
15

EDEN IAS
(MODEL ANSWERS)
STEPS 22/06/2018- (CURRENT AFFAIRS)
Q1. “Cauvery water dispute case is a classic example showcasing complicated scenario of river water
management and governance in India”-Elucidate. (10)
Approach:
1) Discuss the outline of the problem and any historical agreements made regarding the dispute.
2) Discuss the various constitutional provisions in this regard.
3) Highlight the present situation.
Answer:
Following a Supreme Court order, the Centre constituted the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT)
to resolve the water-sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. In 2007, after 16 years, the
Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) gave out their final award. The tribunal held valid the
agreements of 1892 and 1924 executed between the government of Madras and Mysore. Karnataka
protested the tribunal award and observed a state-wide bandh. The award was as follows:
 Tamil Nadu: 419 TMC (which had demanded 512 TMC),
 Karnataka: 270 TMC (which had demanded 465 TMC),
 Kerala: 30 TMC, and
 Pondicherry: 7 TMC
 In 2013, the Centre notified the final award of the CWDT. The government was mandated to
constitute the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) with a gazette notification to
give effect to the final award given by the Tribunal.
 Observing undue delay, The Supreme Court stepped in and ordered the release of water to
Tamil Nadu as per the award of the tribunal and directed the centre to form the Cauvery Water
Management Authority to implement the award.

Recently, there have been fresh disputes post SC verdict on sharing of Cauvery water between Tamil
Nadu and Karnataka and the formation of the Cauvery Water Management Authority. Karnataka is in
fact witnessing wide-spread protests against the award of the tribunal.
Issues in the Cauvery Water Dispute:
1. Deficit monsoon and unavailability of water:
• A major issue which Karnataka sighted has been the unavailability of adequate river water.
• This is primarily due to overall decrease in natural flow of water. The main reasons for decrease
in natural flow of water is reduction in forest cover, unsustainable agricultural practices and
depletion of groundwater.
• The situation aggravates during deficit monsoon and Karnataka has failed repeatedly in
releasing the ordered amount of water during poor monsoon years.
2. Protests:
• In 2016, Supreme Court directed Karnataka to release water. After release of water there were
widespread unrest in the state of Karnataka
• Karnataka government filed a plea to modify a Supreme Court order. It argued that it was unfair to
require the state to release a fixed amount of water irrespective of the availability of water.
3. Use of Special Leave Petitions (SLP):
• The recent Supreme Court Verdict was passed on a number of appeals by the states of Karnataka,
Tamil Nadu and Kerala challenging the 2007 award passed by the Cauvery River Water Disputes
Tribunal
• There were widespread criticism since this was the first time that the SC allowed a Special Leave
Petition (SLP) challenging a tribunal’s award.
• SC justified it on the basis that provisions of Article 262 and the Interstate River Water Disputes
Act does not curtail its powers. Article 136 empowers it to intervene even after a tribunal
adjudicates a river water dispute.
• However, it’s important to note that Article 262 (2) uses ‘notwithstanding anything in this
Constitution’ clause. The question then arises whether the justification made by SC is valid.
4. The Issue with Cauvery Water Management Authority:
• CWMA has not been fully constituted as it does not have three full time members. This is because
Kerala and Karnataka have not filed their nominations.
• Karnataka apprehends that the CWMA will go against its interest and distribute more water to
Tamil Nadu
• During the deficit year CWMA is empowered to find a formula for water distribution. This is led to
speculation and trust deficit.
• Karnataka apprehends that they may lose their control over state reservoir or dam due to CWMA.

Way forward
A) Follow Supreme Court’s Suggestion:
Supreme Court recommended that the Cauvery Water Management Board should include eminent
water technologists and agriculture specialists to
 Ensure greater economy and equity in the sharing of the Cauvery water
 Look into the water efficiency measures involving recycling of water
B) Local Governance and People’s Participation:
Demand management:
 Cropping patterns which are suited to local areas based on soil testing and adapting less water-
intensive crops.
 Drip irrigation and other water-saving techniques, paying attention to crops which are in
demand in the market and which can enhance the income of farmers per unit of water.
Supply augmentation:
 Make rainwater harvesting mandatory as Tamil Nadu is a rain shadow region and water
becomes available largely during the north east monsoon period. There is a large scope for
water harvesting and storage.
 Set up a Water Security Board in order to derive maximum benefits by following transparency in
allocation and distribution.
C) Urban Planning:
Urbanization has altered both quantity and quality of our water resources, it is important that proper
urban and water planning are taken into consideration. For instance, In Chennai, most of the
apartments and Townships are constructed in wetland and lake modified areas.
• CWMA should find a mutually accepted water sharing/ deficit formula.
• Allocation should be based on the basis of monsoon and availability of water.
• Inter-state councils should be strengthened to resolve water disputes among states.
• To solve interstate water disputes, economic survey has suggested for cooperative federalism
just like GST.
 The principle of downstream benefit-sharing is crucial for the successful implementation of
these treaties.
 It is time that water issues are de-politicized and political parties learn to see reason and
respect the rule of law without getting carried away by electoral considerations.
The Central government has got a golden opportunity on Cauvery to set a new, healthy trend.

Q2. “If India is to develop in a sustainable fashion and in an equitable manner, then bio-fuels must be
an important component of the energy-mix.”-Comment. (10)
Approach:
1) Highlight the salient features of Biofuels
2) Discuss its relative advantages over conventional fuels
3) How it can promote sustainable development.
Answer:
A Biofuel is a fuel that is produced through contemporary biological processes, such as agriculture and
anaerobic digestion, rather than a fuel produced by geological processes such as those involved in the
formation of fossil fuels, such as coal and petroleum, from prehistoric biological matter.
Biofuel is commonly advocated as a cost-effective and environmentally benign alternative to
petroleum and other fossil fuels, particularly within the context of rising petroleum prices and
increased concern over the contributions made by fossil fuels to global warming.
The Union Cabinet has approved a National policy on Biofuels that seeks to not only help
farmers dispose of their surplus stock in an economic manner but also reduce India’s oil-import
dependence.

Expected Benefits:
 Reduce Import Dependency: One crore lit of E10 saves Rs.28 crore of forex at current rates. The
ethanol supply year 2017-18 is likely to see a supply of around 150 crore litres of ethanol which
will result in savings of over Rs.4000 crore of forex.
 Cleaner Environment: One crore lit of E-10 saves around 20,000 ton of CO2 emissions. For the
ethanol supply year 2017-18, there will be lesser emissions of CO2 to the tune of 30 lakh ton. By
reducing crop burning & conversion of agricultural residues/wastes to biofuels there will be
further reduction in Green House Gas emissions.
 Health benefits: Prolonged reuse of Cooking Oil for preparing food, particularly in deep-frying is
a potential health hazard and can lead to many diseases. Used Cooking Oil is a potential
feedstock for biodiesel and its use for making biodiesel will prevent diversion of used cooking oil
in the food industry.
 MSW Management: It is estimated that, annually 62 MMT of Municipal Solid Waste gets
generated in India. There are technologies available which can convert waste/plastic, MSW to
drop in fuels. One ton of such waste has the potential to provide around 20% of drop in fuels.
 Infrastructural Investment in Rural Areas: It is estimated that, one 100klpd bio refinery will
require around Rs.800 crore capital investment. At present Oil Marketing Companies are in the
process of setting up twelve 2G bio refineries with an investment of around Rs.10,000 crore.
Further addition of 2G bio refineries across the Country will spur infrastructural investment in
the rural areas.
 Employment Generation: One 100klpd 2G bio refinery can contribute 1200 jobs in Plant
Operations, Village Level Entrepreneurs and Supply Chain Management.
 Additional Income to Farmers: By adopting 2G technologies, agricultural residues/waste which
otherwise are burnt by the farmers can be converted to ethanol and can fetch a price for these
waste if a market is developed for the same. Also, farmers are at a risk of not getting
appropriate price for their produce during the surplus production phase. Thus conversion of
surplus grains and agricultural biomass can help in price stabilization.
Success of the New Biofuel Policy would depend upon the following
 At present, as far as the technology that is available a large chunk of the biofuel will be
derived from the sugar sector. Therefore, pricing is the key.
 The production of biofuels from agricultural waste, it is hoped, will also help curb
atmospheric pollution by giving farmers an incentive not to burn it, as is happening in
large parts of northern India. If the benefits do not reach the farmers then they may again
start burning their agricultural residue as a mark of protest or in urgency.
 There is also a need for caution in using surplus food grain to produce ethanol. Food for
fuel has often been a controversial policy matter across the globe as many believe using
grains for ethanol raises food inflation risk.
 And while removing the shackles on raw material supply can have definite benefits, it
cannot make a significant difference to biofuel production as long as the supply-chain
infrastructure that is required to deliver biofuels to the final consumer remains
inadequate.
 Availability-Accessibility-Affordability equation must be balanced.

Biofuels programme in India has been largely impacted due to the sustained and quantum non-
availability of domestic feedstock for biofuel production which needs to be addressed. Biofuels in
India are of strategic importance as it augers well with the ongoing initiatives of the Government
such as Make in India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Skill Development and offers great opportunity to
integrate with the ambitious targets of doubling of Farmers Income, Import Reduction, Employment
Generation, Waste to Wealth Creation. Biofuels programme in India has been largely impacted due
to the sustained and quantum non-availability of domestic feedstock for biofuel production which
needs to be addressed.
Q3. “As a talent scout for the government, UPSC’s experience is unmatched. Its constitutional
authority enables it to be independent, fair and capable of resisting undue pressures and influences.”-
In the light of the above statement discuss the issue of lateral entry into civil services. (15)
Approach:
1) Provide a thoughtful insight into the issue of lateral entry
2) Try to provide some precedents in this regard and the practice followed in other liberal
democracies.
3) Suggest a way forward.
Answer:
The Union government has announced a scheme for lateral entry of professionals from the public as
well as the private sector with at least 15 years of experience and above the age of 40 years for
appointment as joint secretaries in different departments. The move has been touted by many as an
unprecedented step.
The case for Lateral Entry
 First, the IAS has been designed for the pre-reform India of a dominant state. The IAS officers,
on the other hand, see the government only from within. Sure, there are efforts to reach out to
the stakeholders, but is that an adequate substitute to having within the government itself,
people who have “experienced” the government from the outside?
 Second, IAS officers get recruited at a very young age when it is difficult to test potential
administrative and judgement capabilities. Indeed, experience has shown that the IAS
examination is prone to both, what statisticians call type I and type II errors; some who are
potentially good administrators fail to make it, and some who do make it, fall short of the
requirements. Mid-career lateral entrants with proven capabilities will help bridge this
deficiency.
 Third, career progression in the IAS is almost automatic. Notwithstanding sporadic efforts to
introduce meritocracy, very few get weeded out for poor performance. The only penalty, if at

all, for failing to make the grade, is fringe postings. Lateral entry is necessary to push the IAS
out of their comfort zone and challenge them.
 Fourth, the UPSC system does draw people from diverse educational backgrounds —
Doctors, Engineers, Graduates in the Social Sciences, Humanities and Management studies
— into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). But the IAS’s scheme of posting and transfer
values general competency more than specialised skills. This means that by the time a
bureaucrat attains seniority, he/she has served in so many departments that his/her original
set of skills and expertise has attenuated considerably.
 Fifth, today, the complexities of policy-making are such that senior civil servants are required
to have in-depth knowledge of the areas they administer. Reading the fine print today is
cardinal not only in sectors that have come to the fore in the past 25 to 30 years — telecom,
environment, renewable energy, climate change, intellectual property rights — it’s also essential
in the more traditional realms of administration such as finance, commerce, aviation or health.
Any precedents regarding Lateral Entry
C. Rangarajan and Montek Singh Ahluwalia, just to name two, have been stellar successes. Previous
Union governments inducted professionals from the public as well as the private sector in positions even
senior to that of joint secretaries. The names that immediately come to the mind include Mantosh
Sondhi, V Krishnamurthy, DV Kapur, RV Shahi and Sam Pitroda. These men were hired to position of
secretaries and higher.
Procedure and practices in other countries
United Kingdom
 There are short term lateral entrants allowed to come and work for the government and leave.
 There is a culture of trust but beyond it there is a regulatory mechanism and an apparatus put in
place to ensure that there is no misuse of role assumed when in government.
 So, with adequate safeguards, lateral entry can be made possible in India.
United States of America
 It has revolving door system. Here, the lawmakers and the lobbyists switch jobs from time to time.
 In this system, more the top position more is the influence in the government and its policies.
 It has given USA efficiency but has often created controversies and debates.
Concerns regarding Lateral Entry
 Experience: The level of experience gained by regular bureaucrats during initial years of their
service while dealing with problems faced by the common man will be absent in lateral entrants.

 Result oriented: Always the results need not be tangible especially in government service. Lateral
entrants might be motivated to see the tangible part.
 Short-term results: Regular bureaucrats see long term results, lateral entrants might focus on
short-term gains.
 Profit loss: Lateral entrants, if from corporate sectors will be evaluating everything in terms of
profit and loss due to their previous experiences.
 Demotivation: It may demotivate regular entrants and there might also be high attrition in
bureaucracy.
 Political Favoritism: Perhaps this is the biggest concern that there might be cases where certain
individuals are given preference due to their political ideology or political connections.
 Corruption and Nepotism: There are chances of them indulging in corrupt practices for short term
benefits and political executives might exhibit nepotism.
Way Forward
There should be an institutionalised system of annual recruitment into the IAS of mid-career
UPSC has had an excellent record over the years. It has given India some of the best officers.
Some of whom have left a rich legacy and a brilliant trail to follow for young recruits. Regular
officers often have Cross-Sectoral experience which is advantageous in many ways. The man at
the top has a broad vision rather than having domain expertise.
Hence, the top positions in critical areas should be reserved for within the government. For the sectors
that require more of technical and domain knowledge, lateral entry can be considered as a good
option. In principle it is a good idea. But the private sector should be involved only when there is
a required gap to be filled. Along with recruitment, they should be also made accountable for the
actions and decisions taken in capacity of a government officer.
Q4. “The Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) as invoked by RBI can only produce transient results, it is no
panacea.”- Critically Examine. (15)
Approach:
1) Explain Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) of the RBI.
2) Enumerate the various trigger points regarding PCA
3) Suggest a way forward regarding the sustainability of prompt corrective action.
Answer:
RBI introduces Prompt Corrective Action when the Bank’s financial conditions worsen below certain
limits (trigger points). The PCA framework specifies the trigger points or the level in which the RBI will
intervene with corrective action. This trigger points are expressed in terms of parameters for the banks.
The parameters that invite corrective action from the central bank are:

1. Capital to Risk weighted Asset Ratio (CRAR).
2. Net Non-Performing Assets (NPA).
3. Return on Assets (RoA).
4. Leverage ratio.
When these parameters reach the set trigger points for a bank (like CRAR of 9%, 6%, 3%), the
RBI will initiate certain structured and discretionary actions for the bank.
 PCA norms allow the RBI to place certain restrictions such as halting branch expansion and
stopping dividend payment. It can even cap a bank’s lending limit to one entity or sector. Other
corrective actions that can be imposed on banks include special audit, restructuring operations
and activation of recovery plan. Banks’ promoters can be asked to bring in new management,
too. The RBI can also supersede the bank’s board, under PCA.
Controversy around PCA
 The All India Bank Officers’ Confederation (AIBOC) has questioned the imposition of the norms of
Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on a few public sector banks. They
have termed it as nothing but an initiative towards privatisation or merger of public sector banks.
They further added Most of the loans that have become NPAs are large advances sanctioned at the
board-level consisting of RBI representatives and members nominated by the Central Government.
Employees and officers of these banks had little to do in this regard, he said.
 They also suggested that instead of looking at the miserable plight of the NPA position of these
banks, the government would do better by bringing in a specific and stringent law that empowers
the banks to initiate legal action against willful defaulters.
 But RBI has clarified that the PCA framework is not intended to constrain normal operations of the
banks for the general public. The RBI further clarified that the framework is one of the various
measures/tools that it uses to maintain sound financial health of banks.
Significance of the PCA Framework
 Prevention is better than cure: The PCA framework is one among the many preventive steps that
have been taken by the RBI to help strengthen the banks' balance sheets.
 Basel III compliance: This is also a step closer towards the Basel III norms. RBI has kept the deadline
for all the Indian banks to comply with the norms till March 2019.
 The Basel III capital regulation is being implemented from 1 April, 2013 in India in phases, and it will
be fully adopted as on 31 March, 2019.
 But, there are attempts by the banks and the government to defer this timeline. In June 2017, the
finance ministry argued for pushing back this deadline in view of higher capital requirement to deal
with bad loans.

 The State Bank of India (SBI) report, 'Timing Future Reforms in India' released in October 2017, also
predicted that India may delay the full compliance to the Basel III norms beyond the march 2019
deadline.
The need for capital is growing for the banks. The RBI has initiated many steps keeping in mind
different contexts. These actions although seem good and mandatory but they also constrain the
lending ability of banks. The need of a growing and emerging economy is availability of credit for
investment purposes. The gross fixed capital formation is at an all time low. So, The RBI should not
overburden the banks. The balance between growth and regulation needs to be kept in view.

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