UPSC Public Administration – Complete Ultimate Digital Library | Shaktimatha Learning

 

📘 Public Administration – Paper I
Page–6: Accountability & Control
Previous Year Questions & Model Answers

Prepared for UPSC Mains by Shaktimatha Learning

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Q1. Explain the concept of accountability in Public Administration.

Answer Framework:

• Meaning: obligation to explain and justify actions
• Accountability to legislature, executive, judiciary and citizens
• Essential for democratic administration
• Ensures transparency and responsibility
• Challenges in modern welfare states

Conclusion: Accountability is the foundation of good governance.

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Q2. Evaluate legislative control over administration in India.

Answer Framework:

• Parliamentary questions and debates
• Committees: PAC, Estimates Committee
• Budgetary approval and discussion
• Strengths: democratic and representative
• Limitations: party dominance, limited time

Conclusion: Legislative control is vital but needs strengthening.

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Q3. Examine the role of executive control in administration.

Answer Framework:

• Hierarchy and supervision
• Rules, regulations and manuals
• Performance appraisal systems
• Merits: continuous and prompt control
• Demerits: risk of arbitrariness

Conclusion: Executive control is effective when combined with accountability.

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Q4. Discuss the importance of judicial control over administration.

Answer Framework:

• Judicial review of administrative actions
• Protection of fundamental rights
• Writ jurisdiction of courts
• Role of tribunals
• Ensures rule of law

Conclusion: Judicial control safeguards citizens against abuse of power.

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Q5. Examine the role of the Comptroller and Auditor General in ensuring accountability.

Answer Framework:

• Constitutional position of CAG
• Audit of receipts and expenditure
• Performance and propriety audit
• Reports to Parliament
• Limitations and delays

Conclusion: CAG strengthens financial accountability in democracy.

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Q6. “Citizen-centric mechanisms have strengthened administrative accountability.” Discuss.

Answer Framework:

• Right to Information (RTI)
• Role of media and civil society
• Social audit and public participation
• Lokpal and Lokayuktas
• Shift from internal to external accountability

Conclusion: Citizen engagement has made administration more responsive.

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Prepared by Shaktimatha Learning
Accountability → Transparency → Trust