UPSC Public Administration – Complete Ultimate Digital Library | Shaktimatha Learning

 

📘 Public Administration – Paper I
Page–11: Governance
Previous Year Questions & Model Answers

Prepared for UPSC Mains by Shaktimatha Learning

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Q1. Distinguish between Government and Governance.

Answer Framework:

• Government: formal institutions and authority of the state
• Governance: processes and mechanisms of decision-making
• Governance includes state, market, and civil society
• Government is hierarchical; governance is network-based
• Governance is broader and participatory

Conclusion: Governance goes beyond government to include multiple stakeholders.

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Q2. Explain the concept and elements of Good Governance.

Answer Framework:

• Good governance focuses on quality of administration
• Key elements: transparency, accountability, participation
• Rule of law and responsiveness
• Efficiency and effectiveness
• Equity and inclusiveness

Conclusion: Good governance is essential for sustainable development.

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Q3. “E-Governance is a powerful instrument of good governance.” Discuss.

Answer Framework:

• Use of ICT in governance
• Improves transparency and accountability
• Enhances service delivery and citizen convenience
• Reduces corruption and delays
• Challenges: digital divide and capacity gaps

Conclusion: E-governance strengthens citizen-centric administration.

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Q4. Examine the role of NGOs and Civil Society in governance.

Answer Framework:

• Policy advocacy and awareness creation
• Service delivery at grassroots level
• Social audit and accountability
• Bridge between state and citizens
• Issues of regulation and accountability

Conclusion: NGOs strengthen participatory and inclusive governance.

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Q5. Discuss the role of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in governance.

Answer Framework:

• Promote grassroots participation
• Women empowerment and financial inclusion
• Support local development initiatives
• Strengthen decentralised governance
• Link between government schemes and beneficiaries

Conclusion: SHGs enhance democratic governance from below.

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Q6. Examine the role of Public–Private Partnerships (PPP) in governance.

Answer Framework:

• Collaboration between government and private sector
• Infrastructure development and service delivery
• Risk sharing and efficiency gains
• Concerns: accountability and public interest
• Need for strong regulatory framework

Conclusion: PPPs can enhance governance if properly regulated.

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Q7. Identify major challenges to good governance in India.

Answer Framework:

• Corruption and lack of transparency
• Bureaucratic delays and red-tapism
• Weak accountability mechanisms
• Digital divide
• Capacity constraints at local levels

Conclusion: Addressing governance challenges is key to inclusive development.

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Prepared by Shaktimatha Learning
Good Governance → Public Trust → Sustainable Development