Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Briefly introduce the CAG and its constitutional basis. State the assertion that it is the most significant office for ensuring financial accountability and transparency. Significance of the CAG Highlight Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s perspective on the CAG’s role. Explain the independence of ...
Model Answers Introduction Pressure groups in India, organized groups seeking to influence public policy, have played a crucial role in shaping the country's democratic processes. Their influence has evolved over time, driven by various factors such as human rights advocacy, administrative reforms,Read more
Model Answers
Introduction
Pressure groups in India, organized groups seeking to influence public policy, have played a crucial role in shaping the country’s democratic processes. Their influence has evolved over time, driven by various factors such as human rights advocacy, administrative reforms, and economic liberalization.
Factors Contributing to the Growth of Pressure Groups
- Human Rights and Legal Reforms: Increased awareness of human rights has led to more active pressure groups pushing for legislative changes, such as the Supreme Court’s judgments on LGBTQ rights and Triple Talaq. These groups, like the BMMA, have successfully influenced policy through legal routes.
- Source: Supreme Court judgments (Naz Foundation, Triple Talaq).
- Administrative and Economic Reforms: Reforms like the Right to Information Act and the Draft Data Protection Bill reflect the growing influence of pressure groups in demanding government accountability. Business associations, including FICCI and CII, consult the government on matters like tax policies.
- Source: Right to Information Act, Internet Freedom Foundation.
- Women’s Empowerment: Increased female literacy and empowerment have bolstered women-centric pressure groups, such as SEWA, which has advocated for women’s labor rights.
- Source: SEWA’s activism on women’s worker rights.
- Devolution of Power: The decentralization of power through the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments has allowed pressure groups to operate more effectively at grassroots levels.
- Source: 73rd/74th Constitutional Amendment Act.
Challenges to Pressure Groups’ Influence
Despite their growing prominence, pressure groups face challenges, such as government crackdowns on foreign-funded NGOs and accusations of being politically motivated.
- Source: FCRA violations, IB report on economic protests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while pressure groups in India have seen increased influence over time, their role remains complex, with both growing opportunities and challenges in shaping public policy.
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Model Answers The Significance of the CAG in India's Constitution The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, established under Article 148 of the Constitution, plays a vital role in maintaining financial accountability and transparency within the government. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar recognized theRead more
Model Answers
The Significance of the CAG in India’s Constitution
The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, established under Article 148 of the Constitution, plays a vital role in maintaining financial accountability and transparency within the government. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar recognized the importance of this office, asserting it to be one of the most significant under the Constitution.
Auditing Responsibilities
The CAG is tasked with auditing the financial transactions of both central and state governments, including public sector undertakings. This auditing ensures compliance with laws and regulations, safeguarding public funds and promoting lawful expenditure (Source: Constitution of India).
Executive Accountability
Through its reports, the CAG holds the Executive accountable to Parliament. These reports inform legislative bodies about the government’s financial management, serving as a critical resource for lawmakers and the public alike (Source: CAG Annual Reports).
Resource Efficiency
The CAG also evaluates whether government expenditures are legally authorized and effectively utilized. It assesses the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of public spending, highlighting any wastefulness in financial administration (Source: CAG Performance Audits).
In summary, the CAG’s independent oversight fosters a culture of financial accountability and transparency, reinforcing the democratic framework of governance in India.
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