UPSC Mains 2016 GS2 Q10 — Governance
"In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only marginal." Critically examine this statement. (Answer in 200 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Critically examine
- Scope keywords
- Indian governance systemrole of non-state actorsonly marginal
- Implicit sub-parts
- Identify major categories of non-state actors (NGOs, SHGs, pressure groups, private sector) in India.
- Arguments for why their role might be perceived as marginal (regulatory constraints, funding issues, state-centric approach).
- Evidence showing their substantial impact (policy advocacy, service delivery, accountability) to challenge the 'marginal' claim.
- The evolving nature of the state-NSAs relationship in the digital/modern era.
- Common pitfalls
- Focusing only on NGOs and ignoring the private sector, civil society, or media as non-state actors.
- Writing a one-sided essay confirming they are marginal instead of 'critically' examining the validity of the claim.
- Failing to mention specific examples like SEWA, Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS), or NASSCOM.
- Discussing NGOs solely in the context of FCRA controversies without looking at their governance contributions.
- Dimensions required
- Policy FormulationSocial Welfare & Service DeliveryDemocratic AccountabilityEconomic ImpactRegulatory & Legal Framework
- Marks allocation hint
Dedicate 40 words to defining NSAs and acknowledging the premise. Allocate 60 words to discuss the 'marginal' view (constraints/limitations). Spend 80 words providing robust evidence of their significant, non-marginal impact across sectors. Conclude in 20 words with a balanced view on the synergistic partnership between state and non-state actors.
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