Toppers' CopiesPYQ · Coming soon

GS Paper 4 Toppers' Copies

All questions · 57 questions

  1. Open question 56
    Q11 · 20 MARKS

    The government has proposed a phased strategic disinvestment of the State Public Sector Bank, allowing private companies to acquire stakes and manage various banking operations. This decision has sparked widespread outrage among the bank employees, leading to a strike, As the head of the workers’ union, you attended a crucial meeting with state officials, where they outlined issues such as inefficiency, corruption, and deteriorating service quality. The officials presented data showing that the bank has been operating at a significant loss for several years, with mounting non-performing assets (NPAs), outdated technology, and increasing customer complaints about poor service. In response, you presented the workers’ perspective, emphasising their long- standing grievances. The employees are concerned about job security, fearing that privatisation will lead to mass layoffs, reduced benefits, and a loss of the job stability traditionally associated with public sector employment. There are also ‘ concerns about the potential for increased fees and reduced access to banking services for lower-income customers. Meanwhile, the state public sector bank is in a dire state. Branches are frequently understaffed, leading to long queues and delays, and customers are facing issues with accessing basic banking services, leading to a massive public outcry. The media has picked up the story, with reports highlighting the plight of the employees and the inconvenience to the public. The situation is tense, with public protests growing louder and the strike showing no signs of abating. The deadlock between the two parties has intensified, with neither side willing to compromise. Amidst this standoff, state officials have approached you with an offer of a substantial bribe and other perks to secure your compliance with the privatisation plan. They argue that this phased approach is necessary to modernize the banking sector, attract investment, and ensure sustainable operations. a) What are the ethical issues involved in the given case? b) What are the options available to you? Evaluate each of these options and choose the option you would adopt giving reasons. c) Based on the given case study, mention steps taken to improve the banking sector in India.

    Topper: Vikas · AIR 27 · 2025 · Page 44

  2. Open question 57
    Q12 · 20 MARKS

    Anil Gupta, founder of ABC industries, decided to appoint his son Rohan Gupta as the new CEO of the company despite his distaste for family business. This decision side-lined several experienced and talented executives who had been with the company for decades. With Rohan Gupta at the helm, many senior executives found their roles diminished. Mr. Suresh Mehta, the former head of operations with over 25 years of experience, was moved to a less influential position. Similarly, Ms. Anjali Desai, a renowned marketing strategist, saw her projects shelved in favour of initiatives proposed by Rohan’s close associates. This resulted in a significant portion of the company’s top talent sitting idle, leading to frustration and a decline in morale. Rohan’s tenure was marked by a series of poor strategic decisions. His decision to delve into unrelated sectors such as real estate and retail without adequate research or planning, just based on his friend’s suggestion. These ventures drained the company’s resources and failed to generate expected returns. The side-lining of experienced executives and the influx of Rohan’s inexperienced associates led to significant internal conflicts. Disagreements on strategic directions and management practices became common, creating a toxic work environment. The board of directors was often split, with one faction supporting Rohan and the other backing the side-lined senior executives. This infighting made it difficult to implement cohesive strategies, weakening the company’s market position. Soon, ABC Industries had lost a significant portion of its market share to competitors. The company’s financial health deteriorated, and it was forced to lay off a substantial part of its workforce. a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case? b) What action should Anil Gupta take for the resurgence of the company? c) What steps have been taken by the government to improve corporate governance in India?

    Topper: Vikas · AIR 27 · 2025 · Page 49

  3. Open question 58
    Q13 · 20 MARKS

    Ms. Radhika, a dedicated civil servant tasked with overseeing the Right to Education (RTE) implementation in her state, is jolted by the tragic death of Rani, a Dalit student, who succumbed to injuries inflicted by a teacher’s violent assault. The incident rapidly gains media attention, sparking intense demands for accountability and justice from the opposition. Reflecting on her past visits to schools, Ms. Radhika remembers Rani as a promising and eager learner, whose enthusiasm was marred by the harsh reality of social exclusion. Rani’s caste marked her for isolation, both from peers and teachers. She recalls the evident disparity in her treatment—fewer opportunities, less attention, and unfair bias directly linked to her caste identity. Upon deeper scrutiny, Ms. Radhika uncovers systemic flaws within the urban education framework. Complaints about caste discrimination during school admissions surfaced, revealing a failure to uphold RTE’s core tenets. Admission policies and classroom environments perpetuated caste biases, with students from marginalised backgrounds facing segregation and unfair treatment. Educational materials often reinforced caste prejudices, while parents from lower-caste communities struggled to engage in their children’s schooling due to systemic barriers. The situation deteriorates further when local politicians, motivated by caste biases, attempt to suppress the incident, thus obstructing justice for Rani. Political pressure influences the administration to downplay the issue, risking the concealment of the deeper, systemic inequalities in urban education. Ms. Radhika faces a daunting challenge: addressing these injustices while navigating potential backlash from influential communities and safeguarding her own career amidst the turmoil. a) What are the ethical issues involved in the given case for Ms. Radhika? b) List the moral values that will guide her. c) How can Ms. Radhika ethically navigate the entrenched nature of caste-based discrimination within the urban education system?

    Topper: Vikas · AIR 27 · 2025 · Page 54

  4. Open question 84
    Q14 · 10 MARKS

    (a) Ethics is not morality, nor is it religion, law, or values, but it overlaps with alof them. Explain with relevant examples.

    Topper: Sandeep Badad · AIR 82 · 2025 · Page 5

  5. Open question 85
    Q15 · 10 MARKS

    (a) The e Abrecdidy gro und for y evaluate the is often the first school of values, but it may also becom iases, st es and bi i ituges. Critically evaluate the dual role of family in value inculcation in a society.

    Topper: Sandeep Badad · AIR 82 · 2025 · Page 9

  6. Open question 86
    Q16 · 10 MARKS

    (b) Some argue that promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) may come at the cost of meritocracy and objectivity. How can{public institution» balance these ethical considerations?

    Topper: Sandeep Badad · AIR 82 · 2025 · Page 11

  7. Open question 87
    Q17 · 10 MARKS

    {e) “Work is worship, but faughter is Ie. Anyone who take life too seriously must prepare himself for a miserable existence. Anyone who greets joys and sorrows with@qual facility ean really get the best of life.” Sardar Patel.

    Topper: Sandeep Badad · AIR 82 · 2025 · Page 17

  8. Open question 88
    Q18 · 10 MARKS

    (b) Runitive vigilance) deters corruption {preventive vigilange reduces opportunities for corruption while participative vigilancg fosters a culture of transparency and accountability, eliminating the root cause of corruption. Critically examine this oS eat Riedel taba statement with relevant examples

    Topper: Sandeep Badad · AIR 82 · 2025 · Page 21

  9. Open question 89
    Q19 · 10 MARKS

    Explain why emotional intelligence is as important as technical competence in public service. Illustrate with suitable examples.

    Topper: Sandeep Badad · AIR 82 · 2025 · Page 25

  10. Open question 90
    Q20 · 20 MARKS

    (a) Identify the ay Ghical dilen) as faced by Priya in this situation. ensigns)of Mr. Kulkarni’s actions. Do you think his stified? ae for your answer.: pit? Analyse the merits and demerits of each option.

    Topper: Sandeep Badad · AIR 82 · 2025 · Page 31