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Home/upsc: challenges of corruption

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Kavita Singh
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Kavita SinghLearner
Asked: June 17, 2024In:
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Talk about the moral dilemmas that India’s police force faces using relevant instances. Emphasize the causes of police force corruption as well. (150 words)

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Abhishek Singh
    Abhishek Singh Learner

    Answer: Policing is essential for maintaining law and order and smooth functioning of the society. However, police officers in day to day life often face various ethical challenges as follows: Conflict between means and ends: Police officers often face the dilemma of whether to use wrong means to acRead more

    Answer: Policing is essential for maintaining law and order and smooth functioning of the society. However, police officers in day to day life often face various ethical challenges as follows:

    • Conflict between means and ends: Police officers often face the dilemma of whether to use wrong means to achieve good ends in policing. For instance, taking recourse to encounters of criminals to ensure greater peace in the society or using excessive force against a public protest to maintain law and order.
    • Conflict between obedience and legality: In day to day life, police officers often face ethical challenges of whether to follow state directives despite it being illegal or uphold professional integrity and legality of law. For example, state surveillance of opposition leaders through phone tapping by the police undermining the privacy rights enshrined in the Constitution.
    • Acting impartially: Police officers may be limited in their ability to uphold the law by following specific procedures. For example, when an officer is aware of domestic violence but has no court-acceptable evidence to pursue the case.

    Reasons behind police corruption.

    • Misuse of power and discretion: Police personnel wield wide powers and discretion while discharging their functions and those driven by selfish motives can misuse it to accumulate private gains such as receiving free drinks, meals, and other gratuities.
    • Ineffective enforcement of legislations: Ambiguities in legislations and administrative delays coupled with the police discretion “to act or not to act” in respect of certain offenses give ample opportunities to the personnel to resort to corrupt practices.
    • Criminalization of politics: Nexus between the politicians and mafia operators prompt many police personnel to collude with such forces.
    • Vicious cycle of bribery: Policemen who have paid their way through, try to recover the amount as soon as possible and corruption becomes a tool for getting better return on investment.
    • Other factors: Low salary structures, nature and hours of duty, poor training, accommodation problems etc. also perpetuate police personnel to indulge in corruption.

    Thus, there is a need to ensure greater police accountability, better service conditions etc. to abate police corruption in India. Further, implementation of the Supreme Court directions on police reforms under the Prakash Singh case, 2006 enforcing transparent postings and appointments, political neutrality etc. can go a long way in ensuring ethics in police functioning.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 29, 2024In:
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Currently, we discover that corrupt practices persist despite a number of efforts, including the establishment of vigilance commissions and cells, RTI, active media, and codes of conduct, as well as the strengthening of legal processes. a. Evaluate the effectiveness of these ...

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Kareena Khanna
    Kareena Khanna Begginer

    Evaluation of Existing Anti-Corruption Measures 1. Vigilance Commissions and Cells Effectiveness: Increased oversight on corrupt practices within organizations. Enhanced accountability and investigation capabilities. Justifications: Recent examples such as the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) haveRead more

    Evaluation of Existing Anti-Corruption Measures

    1. Vigilance Commissions and Cells

    Effectiveness:

    • Increased oversight on corrupt practices within organizations.
    • Enhanced accountability and investigation capabilities.

    Justifications:

    • Recent examples such as the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) have contributed to some high-profile corruption cases’ resolution, but inefficiencies persist.

    Challenges:

    • Limited power and often bureaucratic delays hinder swift action.
    • Political influence can affect impartiality.

    2. Right to Information (RTI)

    Effectiveness:

    • Empowered citizens to demand transparency.
    • Uncovered numerous corruption cases, e.g., the 2G spectrum scam revelations.

    Justifications:

    • RTI has promoted greater government accountability, but implementation gaps and harassment of RTI activists limit its impact.

    3. Active Media

    Effectiveness:

    • Exposed corruption through investigative journalism, such as the Panama Papers leak.

    Justifications:

    • Media coverage raises public awareness and pressure for action. However, sensationalism can sometimes overshadow facts.

    4. Codes of Conduct and Legal Mechanisms

    Effectiveness:

    • Established standards for ethical behavior and legal recourse.

    Justifications:

    • Laws like the Prevention of Corruption Act provide frameworks, but ineffective enforcement and legal loopholes persist.

    Challenges:

    • Lengthy judicial processes and ineffective implementation undermine effectiveness.

    Suggested Strategies to Tackle Corruption

    1. Strengthening Whistleblower Protection

    Strategy:

    • Implement robust protection mechanisms to shield whistleblowers from retaliation.

    Justification:

    • Encourages more exposures of corrupt practices and ensures safety for those who report.

    2. Enhancing Digital Transparency

    Strategy:

    • Adopt technology solutions like blockchain for transparency in public procurement and financial transactions.

    Justification:

    • Immutable records can reduce opportunities for corruption, as seen in Estonia’s e-governance model.

    3. Judicial Reforms

    Strategy:

    • Speed up judicial processes and strengthen anti-corruption courts.

    Justification:

    • Quick and efficient justice reduces impunity and deterrence against corrupt acts.

    4. Public Engagement and Education

    Strategy:

    • Promote anti-corruption education and civic engagement programs.

    Justification:

    • Informed citizens are more likely to participate in anti-corruption efforts and demand accountability.

    Conclusion: While existing measures have made some impact, enhancing whistleblower protection, adopting digital transparency tools, and implementing judicial reforms can provide a more comprehensive approach to combatting corruption effectively.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: September 10, 2024In:
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Make recommendations for better ways to combat this threat. (Word count: 150) [2015 UPSC]

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Ariana Reddy
    Ariana Reddy Begginer

    Effective Strategies to Tackle Modern Menaces Cybersecurity Threats: To address the growing threat of cyber-attacks, advanced encryption technologies and artificial intelligence-based threat detection systems are crucial. For instance, India's National Cyber Security Policy 2020 outlines measures toRead more

    Effective Strategies to Tackle Modern Menaces

    Cybersecurity Threats: To address the growing threat of cyber-attacks, advanced encryption technologies and artificial intelligence-based threat detection systems are crucial. For instance, India’s National Cyber Security Policy 2020 outlines measures to protect critical infrastructure and data. Strengthening public-private partnerships can also enhance cybersecurity resilience.

    Climate Change: Combating climate change requires a multi-faceted approach, including a shift towards renewable energy sources and sustainable practices. The Paris Agreement emphasizes global cooperation to limit global warming. Countries should invest in climate adaptation technologies and enforce stricter emission regulations. For example, Denmark’s wind energy initiatives and India’s Solar Power Mission exemplify successful strategies in renewable energy adoption.

    Global Health Crises: To manage global health threats, robust vaccination programs and international collaboration are essential. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for rapid vaccine development and equitable distribution. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving global health surveillance systems are vital for early detection and response. GAVI’s COVAX initiative demonstrates effective international cooperation for equitable vaccine access.

    By implementing these strategies, we can more effectively address these contemporary challenges and enhance global resilience.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 24, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction: Contextual Overview Define Whistle-blower: Explain the role of whistle-blowers in exposing corruption and misconduct. Highlight Risks: Mention the dangers they face, including physical harm and victimization. Thesis Statement: State the need for robust policy measures to protect whistle-blowers. 2. ...

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Whistleblowers play a vital role in exposing corruption, illegal activities, and misconduct within organizations. However, they often face significant risks, including physical harm and victimization by those they expose. To safeguard these individuals, robust protection meRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Whistleblowers play a vital role in exposing corruption, illegal activities, and misconduct within organizations. However, they often face significant risks, including physical harm and victimization by those they expose. To safeguard these individuals, robust protection mechanisms must be established.

    Body

    1. Clear Legal Framework

    A comprehensive legal framework is essential to protect whistleblowers from retaliation and discrimination. The Whistleblower Protection Act of 2014 should be effectively implemented, ensuring that individuals reporting wrongdoing are shielded from adverse actions (Government of India, 2014).

    2. Anonymity

    Providing whistleblowers with the option to remain anonymous is crucial. Anonymity can significantly reduce the risk of retaliation and ensure that individuals feel safe when reporting misconduct.

    3. Protection Against Retaliation

    Legal provisions must explicitly protect whistleblowers from retaliation, including termination, demotion, or harassment. Such protections should be enforced rigorously to create a safe environment for reporting (Transparency International, 2021).

    4. Support and Compensation

    Whistleblowers should receive financial compensation and legal assistance for any harm they suffer due to their disclosures. Support services, including counseling, should also be made available to help them cope with the aftermath of their actions.

    5. Awareness Campaigns

    Regular awareness campaigns can educate employees about the importance of whistleblowing and the protections available to them. These campaigns should highlight the positive impact of whistleblowing on organizational integrity.

    6. Confidentiality

    It is imperative to maintain the confidentiality of whistleblowers and the information they provide. This measure ensures their safety and encourages more individuals to come forward.

    7. Independent Body

    Establishing an independent body to investigate complaints made by whistleblowers can enhance accountability. This body should have the authority to take appropriate actions against those accused of wrongdoing.

    8. Training

    Regular training for employees on identifying and reporting misconduct is essential. Training should also include guidance on how to protect themselves from retaliation if they choose to blow the whistle.

    Conclusion

    Strengthening protection mechanisms for whistleblowers is crucial for promoting transparency and accountability in organizations. By implementing these measures, societies can foster an environment where individuals feel safe to report unethical practices without fear of retribution.

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Khushi saini
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Khushi sainiLearner
Asked: June 14, 2024In:
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Public authorities continue to seek bribes despite the fact that it is against the law and ineffective, and executives in the private sector are nevertheless motivated to comply. Talk about how businesses might create a structure that outlaws the practice ...

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Devendra Singhal
    Devendra Singhal Begginer

    Answer: Bribery refers to the offering, giving, soliciting, or receiving of any item of value as a means of influencing the actions of an individual holding a public office. A kickback is a form of bribery wherein an illegal commission is paid to someone typically in exchange for preferential treatmRead more

    Answer: Bribery refers to the offering, giving, soliciting, or receiving of any item of value as a means of influencing the actions of an individual holding a public office. A kickback is a form of bribery wherein an illegal commission is paid to someone typically in exchange for preferential treatment. For example, a buyer receives kickbacks from a supplier in exchange for being issued a purchase order in preference over other suppliers whose goods or services may be of lower price or higher quality. Bribery may lead to lower profit margins, and returns, and lead to a decline in employee morale. Despite this, the World Bank reports that roughly one-third of firms around the world use kickbacks. Therefore, corporations must have a resistance plan in place to address this practice. Such a plan should be informed by the following:

    • Anticipate bribery risk: Management must better understand what motivates the official seeking the backhander. They can then offer alternatives that are within their mandate and laws of the land.
    • Account for the cost of avoiding bribery into projections: Denying bribes to the seeker may be as costly as offering it. It may lead to delays in delivery or even an outright failure to get a contract. Firms should calculate these costs in their business plan and also explain this to the investors.
    • Identify new markets: Certain markets, often called ‘moon markets,’ are infamous for the lack of motivation to change. Corporations may choose to treat these markets as inaccessible and revise their ambitions. This may mean a contraction in profits in the short term, but in the long- run, it also means building a more resilient company.
    • Gather intelligence: Firms must invest in gathering intelligence to identify moon markets and other costs associated with avoiding bribery. For instance, Coca-Cola uses data from Transparency International to build a map of its bribery risks and then determines where to focus its anti-corruption efforts.
    • Recalibrating performance-based targets: In markets with high corruption risk, frontline employees have little incentive to refuse a kickback if it means failing to meet their targets and risking a significant portion of their compensation. Employees should not receive “a haircut” for saying no to corruption. For instance, after paying multi-million dollar fines for bribery, GlaxoSmithKline did away with sales targets. Also, Novartis capped its performance-based compensation, and representatives are now rated based on their values and behavior, and not sales quota.
    • Reporting cases: A corporation must be transparent in its commitment against bribery and allied practices. They must report such instances through appropriate channels as they deem fit.

    An enlightened management must rely upon its products and services rather than bribery and kickbacks. Companies that create state-of-the-art products and strategies to sell them without bribes will help dismantle this age-old system that perpetuates poverty abroad and stifles creativity within.

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Rajashree Shirke
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Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 23, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Briefly introduce corruption as a prevalent issue in Indian society. Mention the view that corruption thrives due to social acceptance and the perception that it is aspirational. State your stance on the issue, whether you agree or disagree, and ...

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Corruption continues to be a major issue in India, deeply rooted in various sectors like politics, business, and governance. I agree with the view that corruption thrives in Indian society due to its social acceptance and the perception that it is aspirational, although recRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Corruption continues to be a major issue in India, deeply rooted in various sectors like politics, business, and governance. I agree with the view that corruption thrives in Indian society due to its social acceptance and the perception that it is aspirational, although recent shifts in public attitudes indicate growing resistance.

    Social Acceptance and Aspirational View of Corruption

    Corruption often creates an image of success, with individuals who accumulate wealth and power through corrupt means being admired. In many cases, achieving success “by any means necessary” is seen as a shortcut to wealth, normalizing unethical practices. This normalization is further reflected in the widespread acceptance of “speed money,” where bribes are seen as a practical way to expedite services or get things done. For example, in sectors like bureaucracy and police, corruption is seen as the only effective way to bypass systemic inefficiencies, creating a cycle that is hard to break.

    Shifting Attitudes and Anti-Corruption Movements

    However, over time, there has been a growing intolerance towards corruption in India. The India Against Corruption Movement in 2011 became a significant turning point, mobilizing public opinion and pressuring the government for greater accountability. As a result, legislative measures like the Right to Information Act (2005) and the Lokpal Act (2013) were enacted to combat corruption more effectively.

    Corruption in Elections and Public Sentiment

    Corruption has also become a key issue in Indian elections, influencing the political landscape. Public outrage over high-profile scandals, such as the 2G spectrum case, coal allocation scam, and allegations of “40% commission” governments, has led to electoral shifts, showing that the public is increasingly intolerant of corrupt practices.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, while corruption thrives due to its social acceptance and perceived aspirational nature, there has been a marked shift in public sentiment toward greater accountability and the need for institutional reforms. Strengthening anti-corruption laws, promoting ethical leadership, and integrating ethics into education are essential for a long-term solution.

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Adheesh Raman
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Adheesh RamanLearner
Asked: February 11, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define Key Terms: Briefly explain bribery and kickbacks, highlighting their definitions and implications. Contextual Statement: Mention the prevalence of bribery in business, referencing the World Bank’s report that about one-third of firms globally engage in kickbacks. 2. Importance ...

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer 1. Anticipate Bribery Risk Management should conduct thorough assessments to understand the motivations behind public officials' demands for bribes. By identifying these motivations, companies can propose lawful alternatives that align with their operational mandates, thereby reducing tRead more

    Model Answer

    1. Anticipate Bribery Risk

    Management should conduct thorough assessments to understand the motivations behind public officials’ demands for bribes. By identifying these motivations, companies can propose lawful alternatives that align with their operational mandates, thereby reducing the temptation to engage in corrupt practices.

    2. Account for Costs

    Corporations must factor in the potential costs of avoiding bribery in their financial projections. This includes recognizing that refusing to pay bribes may lead to delays or loss of contracts. By transparently communicating these costs to investors, companies can foster a culture of ethical decision-making that prioritizes long-term integrity over short-term gains.

    3. Identify New Markets

    Certain markets, often referred to as “moon markets,” are notorious for corruption. Companies should assess whether these markets align with their ethical standards and consider withdrawing from them if necessary. While this may result in short-term profit losses, it ultimately contributes to building a more resilient and principled organization.

    4. Gather Intelligence

    Investing in intelligence gathering is crucial for identifying high-risk areas for bribery. For example, Coca-Cola utilizes data from Transparency International to map out bribery risks and strategically focus its anti-corruption efforts.

    5. Recalibrate Performance Targets

    To discourage employees from accepting kickbacks, companies should revise performance-based targets. For instance, GlaxoSmithKline eliminated sales targets after facing significant fines for bribery, while Novartis shifted its compensation structure to prioritize values and behavior over sales quotas.

    6. Reporting Mechanisms

    Establishing transparent reporting channels for bribery incidents is essential. Corporations should commit to openly addressing and reporting any instances of bribery, reinforcing their zero-tolerance policy against corruption.

    By implementing these strategies, corporations can create a robust framework that not only deters bribery but also fosters a culture of accountability and ethical business practices.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 29, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly mention the common belief that poverty drives corruption. State that corruption is prevalent among all socioeconomic classes. 2. Understanding the Relationship Between Poverty and Corruption Explain that while poverty can lead to corrupt practices, it is not the ...

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction While poverty is often cited as a cause of corruption, it is crucial to recognize that corruption permeates all segments of society, including the affluent and powerful. The motivations behind corrupt practices often extend beyond financial desperation. Basic Causes of CorrRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    While poverty is often cited as a cause of corruption, it is crucial to recognize that corruption permeates all segments of society, including the affluent and powerful. The motivations behind corrupt practices often extend beyond financial desperation.

    Basic Causes of Corruption

    1. Greed

    Greed is a primary driver of corruption. Individuals may engage in unethical behaviors to acquire wealth, power, or status. This insatiable desire for more can lead to significant breaches of trust and legality.

    2. Lack of Accountability

    When institutions lack accountability and transparency, corruption thrives. Without consequences for corrupt actions, individuals may feel emboldened to engage in unethical behavior.

    Example: The 2015 Volkswagen emissions scandal involved the company cheating on emissions tests, undermining public trust and demonstrating the consequences of unaccountable corporate behavior.

    3. Weak Enforcement Mechanisms

    Ineffective enforcement of laws facilitates corruption. When individuals believe they can act without fear of repercussions, they are more likely to engage in corrupt practices.

    4. Culture of Corruption

    In some societies, corruption is normalized, making it difficult to combat. When corrupt behavior is viewed as necessary or acceptable, it becomes entrenched in everyday life.

    Example: Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye was impeached in 2017 for corruption, highlighting how political corruption can become systemic within powerful circles.

    5. Sports Corruption

    Corruption in sports illustrates how the powerful can exploit systems for personal gain. The 2015 FIFA scandal involved officials arrested for corruption, reflecting a broader issue within sports administration.

    Conclusion

    Corruption is not solely a product of poverty; it is fueled by greed, lack of accountability, weak enforcement, and a culture that accepts corrupt behavior. Addressing these root causes is essential for fostering ethical behavior across all societal segments.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: September 10, 2024In:
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Give reasons for your assessment of these measures’ efficacy.

upsc: challenges of corruption
  1. Visha Patnaik
    Visha Patnaik Learner

    To evaluate the effectiveness of measures, it's crucial to understand which specific measures are being referred to. However, I'll provide a general framework that can be adapted to various contexts, with recent examples to illustrate the points. 1. Introduction: Evaluating the effectiveness of measRead more

    To evaluate the effectiveness of measures, it’s crucial to understand which specific measures are being referred to. However, I’ll provide a general framework that can be adapted to various contexts, with recent examples to illustrate the points.

    1. Introduction: Evaluating the effectiveness of measures involves assessing their impact, efficiency, and outcomes relative to their objectives. This framework can be applied to different types of measures, such as economic policies, environmental regulations, or public health interventions.

    2. Economic Measures:

    a. Economic Stimulus Packages: Recent Example: The Indian government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan (2020) aimed to boost economic growth post-COVID-19. Effectiveness: This measure provided liquidity support, enhanced credit facilities, and stimulus to MSMEs. Justification: The initiative helped stabilize the economy and supported small businesses, though the pace of recovery was uneven.

    b. GST Implementation: Recent Example: Goods and Services Tax (GST) was implemented to streamline tax collection and reduce tax evasion. Effectiveness: GST has simplified tax structure and broadened the tax base. Justification: The introduction of GST led to increased compliance and revenue, though issues like compliance burden and IT glitches initially posed challenges.

    3. Environmental Measures:

    a. Plastic Waste Management Rules: Recent Example: Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2021, aimed to reduce single-use plastics. Effectiveness: The rules have led to improved waste segregation and recycling. Justification: Implementation has faced hurdles, such as lack of infrastructure and enforcement challenges, but public awareness and local initiatives have shown positive trends.

    b. Carbon Pricing Mechanisms: Recent Example: India’s carbon market initiatives, like the National Clean Energy Fund, are designed to mitigate carbon emissions. Effectiveness: These mechanisms have incentivized renewable energy projects. Justification: While progress has been made, there is a need for more comprehensive and aggressive policies to meet long-term emission reduction targets.

    4. Public Health Measures:

    a. COVID-19 Vaccination Drive: Recent Example: India’s COVID-19 vaccination campaign aimed to achieve mass immunization. Effectiveness: Rapid vaccination rollout has significantly reduced COVID-19 cases and deaths. Justification: The drive’s success was marked by the administration of over 2 billion doses, though vaccine hesitancy and logistical challenges affected initial phases.

    b. National Health Mission: Recent Example: National Health Mission (NHM) focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure and access. Effectiveness: NHM has expanded healthcare facilities and services in rural areas. Justification: Despite improvements, challenges remain in terms of quality and accessibility, especially in remote regions.

    5. Conclusion: The effectiveness of measures should be continuously monitored and adjusted based on their outcomes and changing circumstances. Recent examples demonstrate both successes and areas needing improvement, highlighting the need for adaptive and evidence-based policy-making.

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