UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Q5 — Pressure Groups
"Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India." Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Explain
- Scope keywords
- Pressure groupsinfluencing public policy makingIndiabusiness associationscontribute to public policies
- Implicit sub-parts
- Brief definition and role of pressure groups as intermediaries between the state and the market.
- Specific mechanisms used by business associations (e.g., FICCI, CII, ASSOCHAM) to influence policy like lobbying, seminars, and data sharing.
- Dual nature of influence: balancing corporate interests with national economic growth.
- Limitations or challenges such as cronyism or neglect of MSMEs in favor of large conglomerates.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too much time defining general pressure groups instead of focusing on business associations specifically.
- Writing a generic essay on lobbying without naming specific Indian bodies like CII, FICCI, or NASSCOM.
- Ignoring the negative aspects like 'regulatory capture' or 'crony capitalism' which are essential for a balanced 'Explain' directive.
- Failing to mention specific policy areas where they have impact, such as GST, FDI norms, or Labour Codes.
- Dimensions required
- Economic/FiscalInstitutional/LegalPolitical/LobbyingEthical/Governance
- Marks allocation hint
Spend 30 words on the introductory role of pressure groups in Indian democracy. Devote 90 words to the core mechanisms and specific examples of business associations influencing policy. Use the final 30 words to address the necessity of transparency and balancing these influences with public interest.
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