Mains PYQs - GS-II (2025) (Q. 16 - 18)

16. Inequality in the ownership pattern of resources is one of the major causes of poverty. Discuss in the context of ‘paradox of poverty’. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction:

Define Inequality in resources/poverty/paradox of poverty.

Main Body

Inequality in the ownership pattern of resources

Reasons

• Unequal concentration of land ownership
• Unequal access to natural resources
• Wealth concentration
• Unequal distribution of growth opportunities
• Political influence – corruption, uneven implementation of reforms, etc.
• Privatisation, dominance of MNCs.

Paradox of poverty & inequality in ownership of resources

• India is the 5th largest economy, yet 16.4% of the population lives in multidimensional poverty.
• Top 1% of Indians own over 40% of national wealth, while the bottom 50% own only 3%.
• States like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha possess abundant mineral wealth but continue to have high poverty rates.
• Urban areas witness rising wealth alongside expanding slums, reflecting unequal ownership of land and assets.

Measures to address the paradox

• Proper implementation of land reforms
• Equitable access to health, education and other services
• Transparency and accountability in resource sharing
• Promote awareness among people about the existing measures and rights.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a positive and balanced approach – Promote inclusive growth and development, enable all the benefits to reach the grassroots of society.

17. In contemporary development models, decision-making and problem-solving responsibilities are not located close to the source of information and execution, defeating the objectives of development.” Critically evaluate. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction:

In every democracy, there is a gap between implementation authority and the people, and it is linked to decision-making without people’s consultation (or) Good governance means it has both top down and bottom-up approach, but in the contemporary world, it mostly follows a top-down approach.

Main Body

How centralised decision-making defeats development objectives?

• Poor understanding of local needs
• Implementation gaps
• Red tapism
• Reduced accountability
• Weak community participation
• Information asymmetry
• Lack of digital awareness
• Issues with resource allocation

Why some degree of centralisation is necessary (Critical Evaluation)?

• Ensures national standards in education, health, and welfare.
• Facilitates equitable distribution of resources.
• Necessary for national security, macroeconomic stability, and disaster response.
• Thus, complete decentralisation is neither feasible nor desirable.

Measures need to be taken

• Strengthen democratic decentralisation – local bodies.
• Create awareness among people
• Improve digital infrastructure.

Conclusion:

Conclude with a progressive view – Sustainable governance needs to benefit all sections of society…..

18. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has to address the challenges faced by children in the digital era. Examine the existing policies and suggest measures the Commission can initiate to tackle the issue. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction:

Describe briefly about the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

Main Body

Challenges faced by children in the digital era

• Cyber bullying
• Online sexual exploitation
• Gaming addiction
• Exposure to inappropriate and violent content
• Misuse of children’s personal information.
• Misinformation & manipulation.

Existing policies & frameworks

• POCSO Act, 2012
• Information Technology Act, 2000
• Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
• Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C)
• Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC) Scheme

Measures to tackle the issues

• Mandatory age verification
• Create awareness among parents & children
• Form a Dedicated 'Digital Child Protection Cell'
• Give more powers to NCPCR to act in a rapid manner
• Establish fast-track special courts to handle the cases
• Special guidelines for vulnerable sections to promote digital safety

Conclusion:

Give a positive and neutral conclusion.