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Case Study
You are the captain of a space exploration mission to Mars. Six months into the journey, a critical life support system malfunctions. After careful analysis, your engineer determines that the system can be repaired, but it requires a specialized part that can only be 3D printed using a rare material. There's enough of this material on board to either print the part or to continue producing essential medication for one of your crew members with a chronic condition.
If you choose to repair the life support system, all crew members will survive the journey, but the one crew member will likely suffer severe health complications. If you continue producing the medication, that crew member will remain stable, but the faulty life support system significantly increases the risk of mission failure and potential loss of all lives on board.
The crew member in question is your most experienced engineer, crucial for the mission's success on Mars. Earth is too far away to provide immediate assistance, and your decision must be made within 24 hours. Your choice will have profound implications for the mission, the lives of your crew, and potentially the future of space exploration.
1. What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this case?
2. How should a leader balance the ethical principles of non-maleficence and beneficence in this critical situation?
3. What lessons can be learned from this scenario to improve contingency planning and resource allocation?
19 Jul, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are the newly appointed Principal of a prestigious government school in a small town.The school desperately needs upgrades – the science labs are outdated, the computer room has only a few working machines, and the library needs expansion.
You had invited a local politician to the school for the 15th of August celebrations, during which he announced his intention to make a significant donation. However, in a private meeting afterward, he also insisted that the renovation contract and purchase of equipment be awarded to a company owned by one of his relatives. However, the company is known for supplying substandard materials.
The donation would cover all these improvements and more, potentially transforming educational opportunities for the students.Some teachers and parents are opposed to accepting these funds under such conditions, while others argue that the students' needs should come first. Your decision will impact the school's future, its reputation, and the education of hundreds of students.
1. What are the key stakeholders in this situation?
2. What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this situation?
3. What decision will you make regarding the donation, and what is your rationale behind it?
12 Jul, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are the Superintendent of Police in a city hosting a major religious festival. The event is expected to draw over a million pilgrims to a sacred site with limited infrastructure. Despite careful planning, a sudden surge in the crowd near the main shrine entrance has resulted in a stampede. Initial reports indicate multiple casualties and injuries, with panic spreading rapidly through the dense crowd.
The narrow streets around the shrine complex are congested, making it difficult for emergency vehicles to access the area. False rumors are spreading rapidly on social media, claiming that the stampede was caused by a terrorist attack, leading to increased panic and the potential for communal tensions.Your actions in the next few hours will be crucial in minimizing casualties and preventing the situation from escalating further.
1. Identify the key stakeholders involved in this case.
2. What immediate measures should be taken to prevent further casualties and manage the aftermath of the stampede?
3. Discuss the long-term strategies that need to be implemented to prevent such incidents in the future and enhance the safety of large public gatherings
05 Jul, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are the District Collector of a drought-prone area. The government has allocated funds for a major irrigation project that promises to benefit thousands of farmers. However, during the initial survey, it's discovered that the project will require the displacement of a small tribal community of 500 people from their ancestral lands. The community lacks formal land ownership documents but has been living there for generations. They are unwilling to move, citing cultural and spiritual connections to the land.
As you begin stakeholder consultations, you learn that some influential local politicians and businessmen stand to gain significantly from the irrigation project. They are pressuring you to expedite the process and minimize interaction with the tribal community. Meanwhile, a group of environmental activists has raised concerns about the project's potential negative impact on the local ecosystem, particularly on a rare species of fish found only in the river that will be diverted for irrigation. You have to navigate the situation with sensitivity and balance competing interests.
A. What are the stakeholders involved in this case?
B. What are the ethical dilemmas you face as the District Collector in this situation?
C. Outline the steps you would take to address this situation, ensuring a balance between development goals and the rights of the tribal community. How would you ensure transparency and fairness in the process?
28 Jun, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are the District Collector of a coastal district. A severe cyclone is expected to make landfall in your district within 48 hours. The meteorological department has issued a red alert, warning of wind speeds up to 150 km/h, heavy rainfall, and potential storm surges.
Your district has a population of about 5 lakh people, with 2 lakh living in low-lying coastal areas at high risk of flooding. The district has limited evacuation centers, and moving such a large number of people on short notice poses significant logistical challenges. The district hospital is located in a low-lying area and houses 200 patients, including 50 in the ICU. Moving them would be risky and time-consuming.
Additionally, there's a large fishing community that is reluctant to leave their boats and homes, as they fear looting in their absence. Many of them also doubt the severity of the weather forecast, based on past experiences where cyclone warnings didn't materialize into major events.
Questions:
1. Who are the key stakeholders involved in this case?
2. What immediate course of action will you take to ensure the safety and evacuation of the population, particularly those in high-risk areas?
3. What long-term measures can be implemented to improve disaster preparedness and resilience in your coastal district?
21 Jun, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
As the Superintendent of Police in Reasi, you have just received a distressing report about a terrorist attack on a bus carrying pilgrims. The strike, which claimed the lives of nine civilians, has sent shockwaves through the region, shattering the relative calm that had prevailed in recent years.
The timing of the attack could not be more precarious, as the region gears up for the upcoming assembly elections. You now find yourself at a critical juncture, tasked with immediate relief measures and devising a comprehensive strategy to address this resurgence of terrorist activities while maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of civilians.
Political tensions are running high, and any misstep in your response could have far-reaching consequences for the entire Union Territory.
1. What are the key stakeholders involved in this case?
2. What will be your immediate course of action as the Superintendent of Police?
3. What will be your long-term strategy to address the resurgence of terrorist activities and maintain peace in the region?
14 Jun, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
In Chandrapur, the local administration faced a dilemma as the Shivaji Stadium, a beloved but deteriorating venue for local sports, neared collapse. Concurrently, the town's economy was suffering from the closure of coal mines, leading to rising unemployment and the problem of migration. Serendipitously, two proposals landed on the District Collector's desk. A company offered to build a shopping complex on the stadium land, promising jobs for thousands, while Sports Authority of India proposed transforming the stadium into a multi-sport training academy to preserve local sports culture and potentially gain national recognition.
Both proposals required the entire stadium land, sparking heated debates at town hall meetings. Former athletes, unemployed miners, and young sports enthusiasts weighed in, torn between economic stability and preserving their sporting heritage. As the District Collector, you have to navigate this situation.
1. What are the stakeholders involved in the decision-making process for the future of Shivaji Stadium?
2. Discuss the potential socio-economic impacts of both decisions (tech park and sports complex) on Chandrapur.
3. What strategies can the District Collector employ to ensure sustainable long-term development and prosperity for Chandrapur?
07 Jun, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are the newly appointed Secretary of the School Education and Literacy Department in a state known for the deep-rooted influence of the publishing mafia. As the Secretary, you face two major challenges. First, the mafia exploits the government's free book distribution scheme by colluding with officials to demand commissions, causing financial losses and compromising book quality. Second, they manipulate private school textbook purchases, forcing schools to buy expensive textbooks under the guise of quality education, which burdens students and families financially.
Your predecessor, an honest officer, attempted to tackle these issues but faced severe resistance from the publishing mafia, leading to their resignation. Determined to combat this mafia, you must solve this issue and ensure a fair and transparent system for textbook procurement and distribution.
1. What are the stakeholders involved in this case?
2. How would you address the exploitation of the government's free book distribution scheme by the publishing mafia?
3. What long-term strategies would you implement to ensure a fair, transparent, and high-quality textbook distribution system for all students?
31 May, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are the District Magistrate of a hilly region in India. The central government has proposed a high-speed rail project that would pass through your district. The project promises significant economic benefits, including job creation and improved connectivity.
However, the project also faces opposition from environmental groups who argue that it will cause deforestation, disrupt wildlife corridors, and lead to increased pollution. Some environmental groups are also protesting highlighting the ecological threats of the project.
Local farmers are also concerned about the acquisition of their land for the project. As the District Magistrate, you have the responsibility of maintaining law and order and addressing various stakeholders' concerns.
Questions:
1. What are the stakeholders involved in this case?
2. As the District Magistrate, what are the various options available to you? Mention the pros and cons of each option.
3. Which option would you choose and why? Justify your decision using relevant ethical principles.
24 May, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
As the District Election Officer, you have received troubling reports of alarmingly low voter turnout in your district over the past two election cycles. The data reveals a concerning trend of declining voter participation, particularly in certain villages within your jurisdiction. Despite the robust efforts undertaken by previous DEOs to encourage voter registration and mobilization, the numbers paint a disheartening picture, raising critical questions about the underlying causes behind this democratic deficit.
The situation demands your immediate attention and a comprehensive action plan to revive the spirit of civic engagement among the residents of these affected villages.
Questions:
1. What are the stakeholders involved in this issue?
2. What could be the potential reasons contributing to the decline in voter participation in these specific villages?
3. What strategies will you implement to improve voter awareness and education to ensure a higher turnout in the upcoming elections?
17 May, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of a state plagued by a deep-rooted culture of electoral malpractices, including booth capturing, intimidation, and violence. The ongoing general elections for the Lok Sabha have been marred by widespread incidents of booth capturing, casting a dark shadow over the credibility of the electoral process.
On the third day of polling, the situation escalated to unprecedented levels, with reports pouring in from multiple constituencies across the state. Intimidation tactics, such as threatening voters and election officials, were also widely reported. Additionally, instances of violence, including clashes between rival political factions, further escalated tensions.
The widespread incidents of malpractices had eroded public confidence in the electoral system, leading to disillusionment among voters.
As the CEO, you must take swift and decisive action to address this crisis and ensure the sanctity of the democratic process.
Questions:
1. What are the stakeholders involved in this case?
2. Given the gravity of the situation, outline your immediate strategy to address the ongoing booth capturing incidents and restore order in the affected constituencies.
3. Once the immediate crisis is addressed, what long-term structural reforms would you recommend to overhaul the electoral framework in the state?
10 May, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are a young IAS officer recently posted as the District Collector of Dantewada, a remote and impoverished district in the state of Chhattisgarh. Dantewada has been the epicenter of the violent Naxal insurgency, a protracted conflict between Maoist rebels and security forces that has claimed thousands of lives over the past few decades.
The Naxalites, claiming to fight for the rights of tribal peasants and the oppressed, have established a parallel system of governance in large swathes of Dantewada's forests and villages. They run their own courts, tax civilians, and have targeted government infrastructure and security personnel through deadly ambushes and landmine attacks.
Despite the heavy presence of paramilitary forces, the district administration's writ barely extends beyond the district headquarters. Most development funds allocated for Dantewada have been siphoned off by corrupt officials or remained unutilized due to the precarious security situation.
The situation in Dantewada is highly volatile, with regular incidents of violence disrupting governance and development efforts. As the senior-most civilian authority, you are under pressure to find an effective strategy to resolve this long-standing conflict.
In the above scenario:
1. What are the major ethical dilemmas involved in this issue?
2. What would be your priorities and action plan as the District Collector to restore administration and deliver development in this conflict-affected region?
3. Reflecting on this case study, what policy measures would you recommend for resolving protracted insurgencies through a comprehensive approach combining development, security, and grievance redressal?
03 May, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
In the aftermath of a severe natural disaster, a community finds itself in a dire situation, with thousands left homeless and lacking the most basic necessities. Heavy rainfall and infrastructure damage have severely impeded rescue efforts, exacerbating the frustration and desperation of the affected populace. As rescue teams arrive at the scene, they are met with hostility and violence, with some team members being assaulted, and one suffering severe injuries. In the midst of this turmoil, there are pleas from within the team to cease operations out of fear for their safety.
In the above scenario :
A. Examine the ethical dilemma involved in the case.
B. Examine the qualities of a public servant which will be required to manage the situation.
C. Suppose you are heading the rescue operations in that area, what will be your response?
26 Apr, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are a District Magistrate (DM) of a rural district known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional practices. The district has a diverse population, including various ethnic communities and tribes, each with its distinct customs and beliefs. The administration has been striving to balance the preservation of these traditions with the need for modernization and development.
Recently, a conflict arose between a government-led development project and the traditional practices of a tribal community. The project aims to construct a road through a forest area inhabited by the tribe, which they consider sacred and essential for their cultural practices. The community vehemently opposes the project, citing that it would not only disrupt their way of life but also harm the environment.
As the DM, you are caught between the mandate of the development project, which promises improved connectivity and economic growth for the region, and the ethical responsibility to protect the cultural heritage and rights of the tribal community. The local administration has received pressure from higher authorities to expedite the project, highlighting its significance for the overall development of the district.
In this scenario, discuss the ethical dilemmas you face as the DM and outline the steps you would take to resolve the conflict while upholding public service values and ethics in public administration.
19 Apr, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are posted as the District Magistrate in a rural district of India with a significant population belonging to various caste groups. Despite legal provisions and affirmative action policies, instances of caste discrimination are prevalent in the district. Recently, a group of Dalit students from a government school in a predominantly upper-caste village have approached you, complaining of discrimination and harassment by their upper-caste classmates and teachers.
The students allege that they are often made to sit separately, are not allowed to use the common water source and face verbal abuse from their peers and teachers. They also claim that their grades are intentionally marked lower than those of their upper-caste counterparts.
Upon investigation, you find that the allegations are substantiated, and there is a deep-seated bias against the Dalit students in the school. The school management, dominated by upper-caste members, is reluctant to address the issue, citing "tradition" and "social norms."
As the District Magistrate, how would you approach this situation ethically and effectively to address the caste discrimination in the school? What steps would you take to ensure justice for the Dalit students and promote a more inclusive and equitable environment in the school?
12 Apr, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Study
You are the Human Resources Manager of a medium-sized company that operates in the service sector. The company employs a diverse workforce, including individuals from different cultural backgrounds and genders. Recently, an employee, Ms. A, who has been with the company for three years, has filed a complaint of sexual harassment against her immediate supervisor, Mr. B.
Ms. A alleges that Mr. B has been making unwanted advances towards her, including inappropriate comments about her appearance and unwelcome physical contact. She states that these incidents have been ongoing for several months and have created a hostile work environment for her.
Upon receiving the complaint, you conducted a preliminary investigation and found some corroborating evidence, such as witness statements and emails. However, Mr. B denies the allegations and claims that his interactions with Ms. A were friendly and professional.
As the HR Manager, you are tasked with handling this sensitive issue in a fair and impartial manner. Your actions will not only affect the individuals involved but also impact the overall work culture and reputation of the company.
In light of the above scenario, discuss the ethical dilemmas you face as the HR Manager and outline the steps you would take to address the complaint of sexual harassment, ensuring transparency, fairness, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.
05 Apr, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
Mohan is a young civil servant and has a reputation for his competence, integrity, dedication and relentless pursuit of difficult and onerous jobs. Considering his profile, he was picked up by his bosses to handle a very challenging and sensitive assignment.
He was posted in a tribal-dominated district notorius for illegal sand mining. Excavating sand from the river belt and transporting it through trucks and selling them in black market was rampant. This illegal sand mining mafia was operating with the support of local functionaries and tribal musclemen who in turn were bribing selected poor tribals and had kept the tribal under fear and intimidation.
Mohan being a sharp and energetic officer immediately grasped the ground realities and the modus operandi followed by the mafia through their devious and dubious mechanism. On making inquiries, he gathered that some of their own office employees are hand in glove with them and have developed a close unholy nexous.
Mohan initiated stringent action against them and started conducting raids on their illegal operations of movement of trucks filled with sand. The mafia got rattled as not many officers in the past had taken such strong steps against the mafia. Some of the office employees who were allegedly close to the mafia informed them that the oofice is determined to clean up the mafia's illegal sand mining operations in that district and may cause them irreparable damage. The mafia turned hostile and launched a counter-offensive.
The tribal musclemen and mafia started threatening him with dire consequences. His family (wife, and old mother) were stalked and were under virtual surveillance and thus causing mental torture, agony and stress to all of them. The matter assumed serious proportions when a muscle man come to his office and threatened him to stop raids, etc., otherwise, his fate will not be different from some of his predecessores (ten years back one officer was killed by the mafia)
(a) Identify the differnt options availabe to Mohan in attending to this situation.
(b) Critically evaluate each of the options by you.
(c) Among the options provided, which do you believe would be the most suitable?
29 Mar, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
You are posted as the District Magistrate in a region where deforestation has become a pressing issue. The local communities rely heavily on forest resources for their livelihoods, including fuelwood collection, timber for construction, and non-timber forest products for sustenance. However, rampant deforestation is leading to ecological imbalances and adversely affecting the communities. The increasing deforestation is driven by various factors, including illegal logging, encroachment for agricultural purposes, and infrastructure development. This has resulted in the loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and disrupted water cycles, leading to adverse effects on agriculture and local ecosystems.
As the District Magistrate, you are tasked with addressing these problems and finding sustainable solutions that balance the needs of the communities with environmental conservation.
In light of this scenario, analyze the problems and issues of deforestation and propose a comprehensive plan of action that addresses the concerns of both the communities and the environment.
22 Mar, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
A Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA), known for his principled stand on various issues and unwavering commitment to his political party, decides to defect to another party. He justifies his decision by citing ideological differences and the need to better serve his constituents. However, his decision is widely criticized as opportunistic and a betrayal of the trust placed in him by his constituents and party members. The Chief Minister, who is from the ruling party, alleges that the defections were orchestrated through unethical means, including promises of positions and financial incentives.
As an aspiring civil servant, analyze the ethical implications of political defections. Discuss the challenges faced by lawmakers in balancing their ideological beliefs, party loyalty, and responsibilities towards constituents. Suggest measures to address the issue of political defections while upholding democratic values and integrity in governance.
15 Mar, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
Lakhimpura, a remote district inhabited by a tribal population, is marked by extreme backwardness and abject poverty. Agriculture is the mainstay of the local population, though it is primarily subsistence due to the very small landholdings. There is insignificant industrial or mining activity. Even the targeted welfare programs have inadequately benefited the tribal population. In this restrictive scenario, the youth has begun to migrate to other states to supplement the family income. Plight of minor girls is that their parents are persuaded by labor contractors to send them to work in the Bt Cotton farms of a nearby state. The soft fingers of the minor girls are well suited for plucking the cotton. The inadequate living and working conditions in these farms have caused serious health issues for the minor girls. NGOs in the districts of domicile and the cotton farms appear to be compromised and have not effectively espoused the twin issues of child labour and development of the area.
You are appointed as the District Collector of Lakhimpura. Identify the ethical issues involved. Which specific steps will you initiate to ameliorate the conditions of minor girls of your district and to improve the overall economic scenario in the district?
08 Mar, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
As the municipal commissioner of a significant city, renowned for your integrity and steadfast adherence to the law, you find yourself confronted with a serious situation following a tragic incident at a construction site. A multipurpose mall project, employing numerous daily wage laborers, experienced a devastating roof collapse during a monsoon night, resulting in the loss of lives of four workers, including two minors, and leaving many others critically injured. This catastrophic event has stirred public outcry, prompting the government to initiate an inquiry.
Upon preliminary investigation, a troubling pattern of irregularities has surfaced. It has been revealed that substandard materials were utilized in the construction, and the building deviated from the approved plans by including an unauthorized additional basement. Despite periodic inspections by municipal building inspectors, these discrepancies went undetected. Furthermore, the construction encroached upon designated green belt and slip road areas outlined in the city's Zonal Master Plan.
Complicating matters, your predecessor, a senior colleague, and an acquaintance approved the mall's construction, raising questions about potential collusion between municipal officials and the builders. Also, pressure from within the municipal corporation to temper the inquiry has emerged, with colleagues urging you to proceed cautiously. Additionally, the builder, who wields considerable wealth and influence, is a close relative of a powerful state cabinet minister. He has attempted to influence the investigation in his favor by offering financial incentives and implying potential legal repercussions under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act if matters are not resolved to his advantage swiftly.
(a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case.
(b) What are the options available to you in this situation?
(c) Explain your selected course of action.
01 Mar, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
As the officer entrusted with overseeing environmental compliance in the region, you have encountered a complex challenge stemming from numerous small and medium industries holding environmental clearance certificates while continuing to pollute air, water, and soil, resulting in adverse health effects on the local population.
Upon discovering the widespread violations, you took decisive action by issuing notices to all industrial units to apply for fresh environmental clearance. However, your efforts were met with resistance from some industrial stakeholders, vested interest groups, and local politicians. Additionally, there was apprehension among workers about potential job loss and economic insecurity.
Despite pleas from industry owners highlighting potential financial losses and product shortages, and appeals from labor unions to avoid closure, you remained steadfast in your commitment to environmental protection. This stance, however, exposed you to threats from unidentified sources.
In the face of adversity, you found support from colleagues advocating for uncompromising environmental compliance and local NGOs calling for the immediate closure of polluting units.
(a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?
(b) Based on the above case study, what are the options available to you?
(c) What type of mechanism would you suggest to ensure environmental compliance?
23 Feb, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
You are serving as the Inspector of Traffic Police in a bustling city. One day, a convoy of a union minister is scheduled to pass through the heart of the city, resulting in a significant disruption to the regular traffic flow. The convoy's movement causes a massive traffic jam, leading to chaos on the streets. Amidst this situation, an ambulance carrying a critically ill heart patient is stuck in traffic.
The patient's condition is deteriorating rapidly, and any delay in reaching the hospital could prove life-threatening. As the Inspector of Traffic Police, you find yourself caught in a dilemma, torn between the responsibility to ensure the smooth movement of VIP convoys and the urgent need to facilitate the timely passage of the ambulance for emergency medical services.
(a) What option does the inspector (traffic police) have in these circumstances?
(b) How does the Inspector (Traffic Police) manage the delicate equilibrium between accommodating VIP convoys and prioritizing emergency response services?
16 Feb, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
As District Magistrate, you are presented with two competing proposals for a large development project in your district: A modern industrial complex promising significant economic growth and employment, and a wildlife sanctuary aimed at protecting endangered species and preserving ecological balance. Both projects will require land acquisition and displacement of local communities. Additionally, the industrial complex raises concerns about potential environmental pollution.
A. Discuss the ethical dilemmas involved in choosing between these two seemingly incompatible projects.
B. Outline a framework for making an ethically sound decision, considering the principles of public good, sustainability, justice, and transparency.
02 Feb, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
A famous Indian car company brought an international model to the local market, promising customers the same quality. However, a surprise check found the cars didn't match the approved specs, and a later investigation showed intentional misconduct. The company wasn't just selling subpar cars in India; they were also using rejected export models for local sales. This unethical practice was uncovered, damaging the company's reputation and causing financial losses. Now, the company must address these issues to regain trust and restore its standing in the automotive industry.
The unethical actions had widespread repercussions, greatly damaging the company's image and resulting in substantial financial setbacks both domestically and globally. The betrayal of trust with consumers and regulators created a ripple effect, affecting the company's position in the fiercely competitive automotive industry. It became crucial for the company to implement corrective measures and undertake damage control to rebuild trust and reclaim its previously robust market position.
A. What ethical considerations should guide the company's decision-making process in rectifying these actions and rebuilding trust with consumers and regulators?
B. How can the company foster a culture of ethical awareness and accountability among its stakeholders?
19 Jan, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
Q. You are a government officer under the central government. In the pursuit of improved public services, the central government is implementing a digital transformation initiative, involving the collection and analysis of citizens' data. You are vested with the responsibility of implementing the digital transformative initiative of the central government. During the implementation process, concerns were raised about the right to privacy and the potential misuse of personal data by private tech firms. While the initiative promises socio-economic development, questions about fair benefits distribution and societal inequalities have emerged due to a lack of clear regulations.
A. What are the ethical challenges that you face as an officer in charge of the digital transformation initiative?
B. How would you balance the competing interests of the government, the citizens, and the private tech firms in this situation?
12 Jan, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
Ravish, a young and dedicated civil servant known for his competence and integrity, was assigned to a district plagued by a low literacy ratio and controlled by an education mafia involved in extorting money from students for facilitating cheating in exams. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Ravish swiftly grasped the intricate workings of the mafia, discovering their clandestine methods and the complicity of local authorities and strongmen.
Upon investigation, Ravish unearthed the involvement of some of his office employees in this illicit nexus. Taking decisive action, he initiated stringent measures against them and conducted raids to dismantle the illegal operations. Unaccustomed to facing such resistance, the mafia became alarmed, with some office employees tipping them off about Ravish's determination to eradicate bribery and cheating promotion in the district.
In response, the mafia adopted a hostile stance and launched a counter-offensive. They resorted to threatening Ravish with dire consequences, and his family, including his wife and elderly mother, became targets of stalking and virtual surveillance, causing immense mental distress. The situation escalated when a thug visited Ravish's office, warning him to cease the raids or face a fate similar to some of his predecessors, one of whom had been killed by the mafia a decade earlier.
A. Considering the challenges faced by Ravish in dealing with the education mafia, what are the various options available to him to address the situation effectively?
B. Provide a critical assessment of each of the options outlined for Ravish in addressing the challenges posed by the education mafia in the district.
05 Jan, 2024 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
You are posted as the District Magistrate (DM) in a remote district in India. This district is known for its rich tribal culture and pristine natural beauty. However, it also faces challenges like poverty, limited healthcare and education facilities, and deforestation due to illegal logging.
A multinational pharmaceutical company (MNC) approaches you with a proposal to set up a research facility in the district. The MNC claims that the research facility will bring economic development, employment opportunities, and better healthcare services to the district. The MNC also offers you a hefty amount of money as a personal incentive to approve the proposal.
However, you are aware that the research facility will have negative impacts on the environment, the tribal culture, and the rights of the local people. The MNC has a history of unethical practices such as exploiting natural resources, violating human rights, and conducting illegal experiments on animals and humans. You also suspect that the MNC has some hidden agenda behind the research facility.
As the DM, you have to decide whether to accept or reject the proposal.
A. What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this case? How will you resolve them?
B. What are the possible consequences of your decision for yourself, the district, and the MNC? Justify your answer with suitable arguments and examples. (250 words)
29 Dec, 2023 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
An IAS officer, Mr. Sharma, is working in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare as a Joint Secretary. He is responsible for drafting a policy on surrogacy, which aims to regulate the practice of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and protect the rights and interests of the surrogate mothers, the intended parents, and the children born through surrogacy.
Mr. Sharma is married to Mrs. Sharma, who is a successful lawyer and a partner in a reputed law firm. They have been trying to have a child for the past 10 years, but have failed due to medical reasons. They have also explored the option of adoption, but have faced many hurdles and delays in the process.
One day, Mrs. Sharma informs Mr. Sharma that she has found a surrogate mother through an online platform, who is willing to carry their child for a reasonable amount of money. She also tells him that she has consulted her law firm and they have assured her that they can handle the legal formalities and paperwork for the surrogacy arrangement. She urges Mr. Sharma to agree to this option, as it is their last chance to have a biological child of their own. However, the current law prohibits commercial surrogacy and allows only altruistic surrogacy for eligible couples.
1. What are the ethical issues involved in this case?
2. What are the possible options available to Mr. Sharma?
3. What should Mr. Sharma do in this situation? Justify your answer with suitable arguments. (250 words)
22 Dec, 2023 GS Paper 4 Case Studies -
Case Studies
You hold a responsible position in a ministry in the government, One day in the morning you received a call from the school of your 11-year-old son that you are required to come and meet the Principal. You proceed to the school and find your son in the Principal's office. The Principal informs you that your son had been found wandering aimlessly in the grounds during the time classes were in progress. The class teacher further informs you that your son has lately become a loner and did not respond to questions in the class, he had also been unable to perform well in the football trials held recently. You bring your son back from the school and in the evening, you along with your wife try to find out the reasons for your son's changed behaviour. After repeated cajoling, your son shares that some children had been making fun of him in the class as well as in the WhatsApp group of the students by calling him stunted, duh and a frog. He tells you the names of a few children who are the main culprits but pleads with you to let the matter rest. After a few days, during a sporting event, where you and your wife have gone to watch your son play, one of your colleague's son shows you a video in which students have caricatured your son. Further, he also points out to the perpetrators who were sitting in the stands. You purposefully walk past them with your son and go home. Next day, you find on social media, a video denigrating you, your son and even your wife, stating that you engaged in physical bullying of children on the sports field. The video became viral on social media. Your friends and colleagues began calling you to find out the details. One of your juniors advised you to make a counter video giving the background and explaining that nothing had happened on the field. You, in turn posted a video which you have captured during the sporting event, identifying the likely perpetrators who were responsible for your son's predicament. You have also narrated what has actually happened in the field and made attempts to bring out the adverse effects of the misuse of social media.
(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, UPSC Mains 2023)
15 Dec, 2023 GS Paper 4 Case Studies