On June 8th and 9th we shall be discussing in GS, the Direct Cash Transfer Scheme, its objects and shortcomings and the challenges it poses. We shall link it up to its possibilities in checking corruption. We shall also move on to the massive spending that the Food Security Bill involves. Along side we shall examine how the massive expenditure on social security schemes provides also massive scope for corruption. In this connection we shall examine with suitable case studies the role of the Family, the School, Religious authorities , NGOS in preventing another Californian Gold Crush which gripped America and spawned massive crime. We shall examine the psychology of such characters as A. Raja, Sreesanth, Kalmadi et al. Why did these people get themselves involved in crime. They had promising careers and much was expected of them. Are they really guilty or have they been demonized? Were they victims and were they taken for a ride while the real criminals are elsewhere?
We shall also be discussing the contemporary theories of Public Administration and the Challenges posed by these theories.
A few students will also have opportunities of making presentations. Last week Miss Kurien made a Presentation on mental disorders with special reference to Schizophrenia. Earlier presentations on Malnutrition were made. The Institute provides library facilities for preparing presentations. Contact Mrs. Jaishree Venkateshan who will provide the necessary infrastructure.
Tests are held at the end of the class.
Last week’s test paper is enclosed.
Mains 2013 Batch-Class Test 1
General Studies
1st June 2013
Answer the following questions each not exceeding 300 words. The word limit should be strictly adhered to:-
1. The Civil Servant should have a strong commitment to values. Comment In the light of the Indian environment.
2. What are the ethical compulsions of a Civil Servant?
3. India has a rich tradition of ethics in literature, philosophy and religion. Comment on this statement with positive examples and cases.
4. Examine the consequences of the 1857 revolt in politics and religion.
Public Administration:-
1 . What are the objectives of Development Administration? Also examine the demands DA places on the structure and practice of Administration. (300 words)
2 . People’s participation is crucial to development administration. Comment on the utility of the Right to Information Act and Voluntary organizations (NGOs) in this respect. (300 words)
Those who were absent should get the answer sheets next class.