Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Define the Indian Party System: Briefly explain what the Indian party system entails and its significance in a democratic setup. State the Thesis: Mention that the system is undergoing a transitional phase characterized by contradictions and paradoxes. Body 1. Rise ...
Model Answer Introduction The size of a cabinet is crucial in determining the efficacy of a government. It is often argued that the cabinet should be as large as necessary to manage governmental work effectively and as manageable as the Prime Minister can oversee. However, the relationship between cRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The size of a cabinet is crucial in determining the efficacy of a government. It is often argued that the cabinet should be as large as necessary to manage governmental work effectively and as manageable as the Prime Minister can oversee. However, the relationship between cabinet size and government efficacy is complex and multifaceted.
Advantages of a Larger Cabinet
A larger cabinet can enhance decision-making by incorporating diverse perspectives, which is particularly important in a multicultural society like India. For instance, during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government from 2004 to 2014, a larger cabinet was formed to accommodate various coalition partners, ensuring representation from different regions and social groups. This inclusivity potentially led to more comprehensive policy-making, as each minister could focus on specific areas of governance.
Disadvantages of a Larger Cabinet
Despite these advantages, a larger cabinet can hinder efficiency. As the number of ministers increases, coordination becomes more challenging, leading to blurred responsibilities and delayed decision-making. Historical examples illustrate this point: the first cabinet of independent India, led by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, consisted of only 15 ministers, allowing for swift and effective decision-making during a critical period. In contrast, larger cabinets, such as those during the United Front government in the mid-1990s, were often criticized for their sluggishness and inefficiency.
The 91st Amendment to the Constitution of India, enacted in 2003, sought to address the issue of oversized cabinets by limiting the total number of ministers to 15% of the Lok Sabha’s total membership, reflecting a recognition of the need for balance between representation and efficiency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while a larger cabinet can promote inclusivity and representation, it may also lead to inefficiencies that undermine government efficacy. The ideal cabinet size should strike a balance between these competing needs, as evidenced by Narendra Modi’s first term (2014-2019), where a smaller cabinet was able to function effectively. Ultimately, the relationship between cabinet size and government efficacy is influenced by various factors, including political context and the Prime Minister’s leadership style.
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Model Answer Introduction The Indian party system, characterized by its diverse political landscape, is currently navigating a phase of transition filled with complexities. This evolution reflects the dynamic nature of India’s democracy and the multifaceted forces at play within its political institRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Indian party system, characterized by its diverse political landscape, is currently navigating a phase of transition filled with complexities. This evolution reflects the dynamic nature of India’s democracy and the multifaceted forces at play within its political institutions.
Body
Rise of Regional Parties
In recent years, regional parties have gained significant traction, often addressing local aspirations and identities. For instance, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) gained prominence in Delhi, while the Trinamool Congress (TMC) emerged as a powerful force in West Bengal. Although these parties promote federalism by giving voice to regional concerns, they can also lead to fragmentation within the political landscape, complicating national governance (Source: Chhibber, P., & Kollman, K. (2004). The Formation of National Party Systems).
National Parties’ Changing Dynamics
The shift in the dominance of national parties is another hallmark of this transitional phase. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has emerged as the preeminent national party, particularly evident in the 2014 and 2019 general elections, where it significantly weakened the long-standing reign of the Indian National Congress (INC). This change reflects a broader realignment in Indian politics, showcasing the complexities of party loyalty and voter behavior (Source: Kumar, A. (2020). Electoral Politics in India: The New Normal).
Coalition Politics
The landscape of coalition politics is yet another paradox. The formation of alliances, such as the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), mirrors the diversity of Indian society. However, it also poses challenges for political stability, as coalition partners often have conflicting agendas and priorities (Source: Jaffrelot, C. (2019). The BJP: The Rise of Hindu Nationalism in India).
Influence of Social Media
Lastly, the role of social media in shaping political narratives cannot be overlooked. The BJP’s effective use of social media during elections illustrates its power in mobilizing support. However, this also raises concerns about misinformation and the overall quality of political discourse, highlighting a paradox in modern political engagement (Source: Sharma, K. (2021). Social Media and Political Communication in India).
Conclusion
As India’s democracy evolves, it is imperative to confront these contradictions and paradoxes to ensure the stability and integrity of its political system while accommodating the diverse aspirations of its citizens.
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