UPSC Mains 2023 GS2 Q17 — Welfare Schemes
“Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Do you agree?Give reasons
- Scope keywords
- Development and welfare schemesvulnerablediscriminatory in approachby its nature
- Implicit sub-parts
- Explain the philosophical/legal basis of 'Positive Discrimination' or 'Reasonable Classification' in welfare.
- Arguments for why these schemes are 'discriminatory' (exclusion of others, targeting based on identity).
- Arguments for why they are not 'discriminatory' but 'equitable' (leveling the playing field, historical injustices).
- How to ensure these schemes do not lead to permanent dependency or social friction.
- Common pitfalls
- Equating 'discriminatory' with 'negative' instead of explaining 'positive discrimination'.
- Spending too much time listing specific schemes (MGNREGA, PM-KISAN) without analyzing the 'nature' of the approach.
- Failing to mention Constitutional safeguards like Article 15(3), 15(4), or 16(4) that legitimize this approach.
- Taking an extreme stand; failing to balance the need for targeting with the need for universal coverage in certain sectors.
- Dimensions required
- ConstitutionalSocio-EconomicLegal/JurisprudentialAdministrativeEthical
- Marks allocation hint
Dedicate 50 words to defining the concept of positive discrimination and the 'vulnerable' context. Use 100 words to justify the 'discriminatory nature' as a tool for substantive equality. Spend the final 100 words on the challenges of targeting (inclusion/exclusion errors) and the transition from doles to empowerment.
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