UPSC Mains 2023 GS4

In the context of work environment, differentiate between ‘coercion’ and ‘undue influence’ with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words)

‘‘The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer’’. –Mahatma Gandhi (Answer in 150 words)

‘‘To awaken the people, it is the women who must be awakened. Once she is on the move, the family moves, the village moves, the nation moves.’’ –Jawharlal Nahru (Answer in 150 words)

‘‘Do not hate anybody, because that hatred that comes out from you must, in the long run, come back to you. If you love, that love will come back to you, completing the circle.’’ Swami Vivekananda (Answer in 150 words)

‘‘What really matters for success, character, happiness and lifelong achievements is a definite set of emotional skills – your EQ – not just purely cognitive abilities that are measured by conventional IQ tests.’’ Do you agree with this view? Give reasons in support of your answer. (Answer in 150 words)

Differentiate ‘moral intuition’ from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words)

Is conscience a more reliable guide when compared to laws, rules and regulations in the context of ethical decision-making? Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)

‘Probity is essential for an effective system of government and socio-economic development.’ Discuss. (Answer in 150 words)

What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world. (Answer in 150 words)

Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance? (Answer in 150 words)

You are working as an executive in a nationalised bank for several years... (a) What are the ethical issues involved? (b) Evaluate the behaviour of the bank manager from an ethical point of view. (c) How would you react to the situation? (Answer in 250 words)

A Iandslide occurred in the middle of the night on 20th July, 2023 in a remote mountain hamlet... (a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case ? (b) Evaluate the options available to you, being District Magistrate of the area. (Answer in 250 words)

At 9 pm on Saturday evening, Rashika, a Joint Secretary, was still engrossed in her work in her office... (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case. (b) Briefly describe at least four laws that have been enacted by the Government with respect to providing a healthy, safe and equitable working environment for women. (c) Imagine you are in a similar situation. What suggestions would you make to mitigate such working conditions? (Answer in 250 words)

Vinod is an honest and sincere IAS officer. Recently, he has taken over as Managing Director of the State Road Transport Corporation... (a) As a conscientious civil servant, evaluate the options available to Vinod. (b) In the light of the above case, comment upon the ethical issues that may arise due to the politicization of bureaucracy. (Answer in 250 words)

You have just been appointed as Additional Director General of Central Public Works Department... (a) What are the ethical issues involved in the above case? (b) What are the options available to you in order to complete the project as well as to retain Seema in the organization? (c) What would be your response to Seema's predicament? What measures would you institute to prevent such occurrences from happening in your organization? (Answer in 250 words)

You hold a responsible position in a ministry in the government... (a) Based on the above case study, discuss the ethical issues involved in the use of social media. (b) Discuss the pros and cons of using social media by you to put across the facts to counter the fake propaganda against your family. (Answer in 250 words)