Mains Practice Questions - 23 Jan, 2026

Case Study

You are the District Magistrate (DM) of a rapidly urbanising district. The State Government has approved a large urban infrastructure project involving construction of affordable housing and commercial complexes under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model.

One of the shortlisted private firms is owned by a close relative of your spouse. The firm has a strong technical record and offers the lowest financial bid. While the rules do not explicitly bar participation of relatives, media reports have begun questioning the transparency of the selection process.

At the same time, senior political executives informally indicate that clearing the project quickly is crucial for economic growth and employment generation. Delaying or recusing yourself may slow the project and invite allegations of inefficiency.

Your subordinates are divided, some argue that merit should prevail, while others warn that public perception of bias could damage the administration’s credibility.

Questions:

1. Identify the ethical issues involved in the above case.

2.What options are available to you as the District Magistrate?

3.Which course of action would you choose and justify your decision on ethical grounds.

4.How can institutional mechanisms be strengthened to prevent such dilemmas in public administration?

Essay Topics

1.“Institutions endure when values outlive individuals.”

2. “In a connected world, empathy is the new currency of leadership.”