14 questions from the UPSC 2013 examination.
14 questions
It is often said that 'politics' and 'ethics' do not go together. What is your opinion in this regard? Justify your answer with illustrations. (150 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q8-->
Given below are three quotations of great moral thinkers/philosophers. For each quotation, bring out what it means to you in the present context: (a) “There is enough on this earth for every one’s need but for no one’s greed.” – Mahatma Gandhi (b) “Nearly all men can withstand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” – Abraham Lincoln (c) “I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who overcomes his enemies.” – Aristotle <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q6-->
Some people feel that values keep changing with time and situation, while others strongly believe that there are certain universal and eternal human values. Give your perception in this regard with due justification. (150 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q3-->
What is 'emotional intelligence' and how can it be developed in people? How does it help an individual in taking ethical decisions? (150 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q4-->
What do you understand by 'values' and 'ethics'? In what way is it important to be ethical along with being professionally competent? (150 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q1-->
A Public Information Officer (PIO) has received an application under the RTI Act. Having gathered the information, the PIO discovers that the information pertains to some of the decisions taken by him, which were not altogether right. Disclosure is likely to lead to disciplinary action against him as well as some colleagues. Non-disclosure or partial disclosure may result in lesser or no punishment. The PIO, otherwise honest and conscientious, seeks your advice. Evaluate the merits and demerits of the following options and indicate what you would advise, giving proper reasons: (i) Refer the matter to the superior officer and act strictly as advised. (ii) Proceed on leave/seek transfer of the application. (iii) Weigh consequences of truthful disclosure and reply with some compromise. (iv) Consult other colleagues who were party to the decision and act on their advice. Also, without restricting yourself to the above options, state your advice with reasons. (250 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q9-->
"The good of an individual is contained in the good of all." What do you understand by this statement? How can this principle be implemented in public life? (150 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q7-->
You are the Executive Director of an upcoming Infotech Company which is making a name for itself in the market. Mr. A, who is a star performer, is heading the marketing team. In a short period of one year, he has helped in doubling the revenues as well as creating a high brand equity for the Company so much so that you are thinking of promoting him. However, you have been receiving information from many corners about his attitude towards the female colleagues; particularly his habit of making loose comments on women. In addition, he regularly sends indecent SMS’s to all the team members including his female colleagues. One day, late in the evening, Mrs. X, who is one of Mr. A’s team members, comes to you visibly disturbed. She complains against the continued misconduct of Mr. A, who has been making undesirable advances towards her and has even tried to touch her inappropriately in his cabin. She tenders her resignation and leaves your office. (a) What are the options available to you? (b) Evaluate each of these options and choose the option you would adopt, giving reasons. (250 words)5b:T <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q14-->
As a senior officer in the Finance Ministry, you have access to some confidential and crucial information about policy decisions that the Government is about to announce. These decisions are likely to have far-reaching impact on the housing and construction industry. If the builders have access to this information beforehand, they can make huge profits. One of the builders has done a lot of quality work for the Government and is known to be close to your immediate superior, who asks you to disclose this information to the said builder. (a) What are the options available to you? (b) Evaluate each of these options and choose the option which you would adopt, giving reasons. (250 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q13-->
You are heading a leading technical institute of the country. The institute is planning to convene an interview panel shortly under your chairmanship for selection of the post of professors. A few days before the interview, you get a call from the Personal Secretary (PS) of a senior government functionary seeking your intervention in favour of the selection of a close relative of the functionary for this post. The PS also informs you that he is aware of the long pending and urgent proposals of your institute for grant of funds for modernization, which are awaiting the functionary’s approval. He assures you that he would get these proposals cleared. (a) What are the options available to you? (b) Evaluate each of these options and choose the option which you would adopt, giving reasons. (250 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q12-->
What do you understand by the term 'voice of conscience'? How do you prepare yourself to heed to the voice of conscience? (150 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q5-->
(a) What do you understand by the following terms in the context of public service? (i) Integrity (ii) Perseverance (iii) Spirit of service (iv) Commitment (v) Courage of conviction (b) Indicate two more attributes which you consider important for public service. Justify your answer. <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q2-->
You are working as an Executive Engineer in the construction cell of a Municipal Corporation and are in-charge of constructing a flyover. During surprise inspections you notice serious deviations from design specifications which, if ignored, may affect public safety. The Chief Engineer advises you that it is not a serious lapse and to expedite completion. Evaluate the merits and demerits of the following options and suggest the course of action you would take, giving reasons: (i) Follow the advice of the Chief Engineer and go ahead. (ii) Prepare a detailed report of facts, analysis and your views and seek written orders from the Chief Engineer. (iii) Call for explanation from the Junior Engineers and order the contractor to make corrections within a targeted time. (iv) Highlight the issue so that it reaches officers above the Chief Engineer. (v) Considering the rigid attitude of the Chief Engineer, seek transfer from the project or report sick. (250 words) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q10-->
Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu is known for its manufacturing clusters on firecrackers and matches. The local economy largely depends on this industry, leading to economic development and improved living standards. International Labour Organization (ILO) norms fix the minimum age for hazardous industry work at 18 years, whereas in India it is 14 years. Industrial units may be registered or non-registered; many claim to be household-based units to evade child-labour laws, employing children from outside to reduce costs and increase profits. (Further questions continue on next page.) <!--qid:MAINS_2013_GS-IV_Q11-->