UP PCS Mains-2025

General Studies-4 (Full Length Test)

Section-A (Short Answer Questions)

1. Identify and discuss the core ethical principles that guide public life. How do these principles contribute to building trust and transparency in governance? 8

2. "Social influence is a powerful force in shaping attitudes and behaviours." Examine the different types of social influence and their impact on attitude formation and change. 8

3. What are the foundational values of civil service, and why are they essential for good governance? Illustrate with suitable examples. 8

4. What does ‘aptitude’ mean in the context of public service? What measures can be adopted to enhance the aptitude of public servants both individually and collectively? 8

5. How does the work culture in government institutions impact the quality of service delivery to citizens? Suggest measures to improve efficiency and responsiveness in public administration. 8

6. Information sharing is a key aspect of citizen-centric governance. Discuss the benefits of information sharing in ensuring participative democracy. 8

7. The growing influence of corporate funding in political parties pose significant ethical concerns. How can ethical issues related to funding be addressed in India's political system? 8

8. Discuss Swami Vivekananda’s views on selfless service and their relevance in fostering ethical governance. 8

9. Explain the relationship between attitudes and social norms. How does society influence the development of personal and collective attitudes? 8

10. Emotional Intelligence is considered a crucial trait for civil servants. Analyze how EI helps in decision-making, conflict resolution, and public service delivery. 8

Section-B (Long Answer Questions)

11. Ethics encompasses various dimensions, analyze the moral, legal, professional, and social dimensions and explain their significance in shaping human conduct. 12

12. How do family and society contribute to the development and inculcation of human values in individuals, and what role do they play in shaping moral and ethical behavior? 12

13. Amit is a young and honest officer who strongly believes in integrity and ethical governance. He was recently appointed as a procurement officer in a government department. One day, his senior instructed him to approve a tender for a contractor known for substandard work and unethical practices. Amit knew that rejecting the tender would upset his senior and could negatively impact his career prospects, but approving it would compromise public funds and harm the quality of infrastructure. Despite immense pressure, Amit refused to approve the tender, citing ethical concerns and transparency norms. As a consequence, he was transferred to a remote location with limited career growth opportunities.  Comment on Amit’s decision in the light of ethical governance and anti-corruption principles. 12

14. How can the study of attitudes be applied in shaping effective communication strategies for government programs and social initiatives? Discuss with examples. 12

15. As a civil servant in a state facing rising child trafficking, you must implement the Chief Minister’s strict crackdown through surveillance, harsh penalties, and labor regulation.  While industries argue this may disrupt livelihoods, civil society calls for rehabilitation and awareness over punitive measures. Should the government prioritize strict enforcement or adopt a holistic approach combining rehabilitation, awareness, and economic support? 12

16. How do non-partisanship and impartiality shape decision-making in civil services? Discuss their role in maintaining administrative neutrality. 12

17. Explain the concept of ‘integrity’ and its role in maintaining ethical standards in civil services. Support your answer with examples. 12

18. Discuss the role of codes of conduct in promoting public accountability. How can they be strengthened to make civil servants more answerable to the public? 12

19. Global cooperation and international relations are often guided by ethics and principles. Critically examine how ethical considerations shape India's foreign relations in the contemporary world. 12

20. Corruption erodes the foundations of governance. Examine the factors that contribute to corruption in India’s public sector and suggest institutional reforms to curb it. 12