Essay Topics

1. The policy of being too cautious is the greatest risk of all.

2. Evil unchecked grows, evil tolerated poisons the whole system.

Case Study

You are the secretary of the public works department in a state. You are responsible for overseeing the construction and maintenance of various infrastructure projects in the state. Recently, a bridge that was built by your department collapsed, killing several people and injuring many others. The bridge was inaugurated just a few months ago and was supposed to be a model of engineering excellence. The public is outraged by this incident and blames your department for negligence and corruption. They demand your resignation and hold protests outside your office. Some media channels also accuse you of being involved in a scam and taking bribes from the contractor who built the bridge. You are shocked and saddened by this tragedy and want to find out the truth behind the collapse. You also want to defend your reputation and integrity, which you have earned through years of hard work and honesty.

What will you do in this situation? Explain the ethical issues involved and the course of action you will take.

Q. Discuss the main principles of Chanakya’s philosophy for civil servants and how they are relevant for the contemporary Indian bureaucracy. (150 words)

Q. Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service are essential qualities that a civil servant should possess in order to perform his/her duties effectively and ethically. Discuss. (150 words)

Q. The Indian Space Sector has been globally recognized for building cost-effective satellites, and now India is even taking foreign satellites to space. In this light discuss the significance of New Space Policy and challenges associated with it. Also, suggest measures to harness the full potential of space sector. (250 words)

Q. What are the primary causes contributing to train accidents in India? Highlighting the expert committee's recommendations propose effective measures that can be implemented to address these causes and enhance the safety and reliability of India's railway network. (250 words)

Q. How has the Supreme Court of India interpreted the law on sedition in various landmark judgments? Analyse the impact of these judgments on the freedom of speech and expression in India. Do you think sedition law is still relevant in a democratic country like India? Give reasons for your answer. (250 words)

Q. What are the main factors and objectives behind OPEC+ decision to decrease its oil production? Evaluate the impact of this decision on India and how shall India tackle the situation. (250 words)

Q. Examine the distinguishing features of Dravidian temple architecture and analyze the significant role played by the Chola Dynasty in shaping this architectural style. (250 words)

Q. What is urban heat island effect and what are its causes and consequences? Suggest some measures to mitigate the urban heat island effect in Indian cities. (150 words)

Essay topics:

1. The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.

2. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

Case Study

Mr. Chandrakant is a principal in a college. There is a professor who happens to be the brother-in-law of an MLA of the ruling Party. The professor’s behavior towards fellow female teachers and students is derogatory. Several females have accused him of harassing them. The victims have lodged several complaints about his behavior. They are also afraid of filing a police complaint against him as he has threatened them to spoil their career if they do so.

Mr. Chandrakant is in a dilemma. He wants to act against the professor, but he also fears the political backlash from the MLA and his party. He knows that the professor is misusing his power and influence to harass the females and violate their dignity and rights. He also knows that the victims are suffering from mental trauma and insecurity due to the professor's actions.

1. What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

2. What are the options available for Mr. Chandrakant?

3. What should Mr. Chandrakant do and why?

Q. What are the main teachings of Socrates and how are they relevant for ethical decision making in public service? Illustrate with examples. (150 words)

Q. All Birds find shelter during a rain. But Eagle avoids rain by flying above the Clouds. Problems are common, but attitude makes the difference!!!” - APJ Abdul Kalam.

Analyze the meaning and implications of this quote for a civil servant. (150 words)

Q. What is the 30*30 initiative and what are its implications for biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation? Discuss the challenges and opportunities for India in achieving this target. (250 words)

Q. Discuss the linkages between development and extremism in India. How can the government address the root causes of violent movements that challenge the internal security of the country? Illustrate your answer with suitable examples. (250 words)

Q. Socio-religious practices like Jallikattu are in conflict with animal rights. Critically analyze in light of recent judgement by supreme court. (250 words)

Q. What are the issues with Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994? Elaborate and suggest measures to tackle them. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and its impact on the climate and weather patterns of the Indian Ocean region. Examine the potential socio-economic and environmental consequences of positive and negative phases of IOD. (250 words)

Q. Discuss the significance of Chausath Yogini Architecture in the Indian temple tradition. How does it reflect the socio-cultural and religious aspects of the era in which it was built? (150 Words)

Essay topics

1. A great leader uplifts with innovation or enables others too.

2. Each one of us has both; good and evil virtues. Those who decide to focus on the good ones succeed in life.

Case Study

You are a superintendent of police in a district that has a high incidence of crimes against women, such as rape, dowry harassment, domestic violence, etc. You have been trying to improve the situation by sensitizing the police personnel, creating awareness among the public, strengthening the legal and medical support systems, etc. However, you face many challenges and constraints in your efforts, such as lack of adequate staff and infrastructure, political interference and pressure, social stigma and prejudice, media sensationalism and trial by public opinion, etc. One day, you receive a call from a woman who claims that she has been gang-raped by four men who are influential and well-connected in the society. She says that she is afraid to go to the police station or the hospital as she fears for her safety and reputation. She requests you to help her.

1 What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this case?

2. What are the possible options available to you to deal with this situation?

3. What would be your preferred course of action and why?

Q. What do you understand by the term ‘ethical competence’? Why is it important for a civil servant to develop ethical competence? (150 words)

Q. What do you understand by the term 'emotional intelligence'? How does it differ from general intelligence (IQ)? Explain with examples how emotional intelligence can be useful for a civil servant in dealing with various stakeholders.

Q. Recently, the RBI has withdrawn the higher value currency notes as part of its Clean Note policy. Analyze the potential benefits and drawbacks of this step, considering its implications on the Indian economy. (250 Words)

Q. Discuss the concept of Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (MRT) and its potential implications for human health and reproduction. (250 Words)

Q. Recently, the Kudumbshree Scheme of Kerala has completed its 25 years. In the light of this, discuss the role of Self-Help Groups in promoting women empowerment and poverty alleviation in rural areas of India. (250 words)

Q. Analyze the significance of India-Australia relations in the context of regional and global dynamics. Suggest the measures to further strengthen the relations with Australia. (250 words)

Q. Discuss the significance of role of women in combating climate change. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the impacts of permafrost thawing on global climate change and its implications. Suggest measures to mitigate the adverse effects of permafrost thawing. (150 Words)