Civil Services Prep

The concept of the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme is almost a century old in India with early beginnings in the Madras Presidency in pre-independent India. The scheme has again been given impetus in most states in the last two decades. Critically examine its twin objectives, latest mandates, and success.

Model answer

  1. An electronic cash transfer system for welfare schemes is an ambitious project to minimize corruption, eliminate wastage, and facilitate reforms. Comment. 10 marks
  2. Many State Governments further bifurcate geographical administrative areas like Districts and Talukas for better governance. In light of the above, can it also be justified that a larger number of smaller States would bring in effective governance at the State level? Discuss. 10 marks
  3. Discuss the recommendations of the 13th Finance Commission which have been a departure from the previous commissions for strengthening the local government finances. 10 marks
  4. Discuss Section 66A of the IT Act, with reference to its alleged violation of Article 19 of the Constitution. 10 marks
  5. Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health.Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government to achieve the same. 10 marks
  6. The role of individual MPs (Members of Parliament) has diminished over the years and as a result, healthy constructive debates on policy issues are not usually witnessed. How far can this be attributed to the anti-defection law, which was legislated but with a different intention? 10 marks