Model Answer

Introduction

Civil society groups play a crucial role in advocating for women’s representation in state legislatures in India, striving for a balanced and inclusive democracy. Despite these efforts, no state has achieved more than 20% representation of women in its Assembly, with Chhattisgarh leading at 18% and several states having minimal or no female representation.

Contribution of Civil Society Groups

Sensitization Programs

Organizations like Jagori and Swayam conduct awareness programs that educate the public about women’s rights and encourage political participation. These initiatives are vital for fostering a supportive environment for women in politics.

Leadership Training

The Women’s Political Empowerment Program by the Institute of Social Sciences (ISS) has empowered over 15,000 women in local governance, preparing them for roles in state legislatures. Such training equips women with essential skills for political engagement.

Policy Advocacy

The Centre for Social Research advocates for policy changes, notably the Women’s Reservation Bill, which seeks to reserve seats for women in legislatures, addressing the gender imbalance in political representation.

Research and Documentation

PRIDE India focuses on data collection and research to support advocacy for women’s rights, providing a factual basis for policy discussions and reforms.

Grassroot Mobilization

SEWA (Self Employed Women’s Association) mobilizes women at the grassroots level, laying a foundation for nurturing future female leaders in state legislatures.

Challenges

Despite these contributions, challenges persist:

• Patriarchal Society: Deep-rooted norms, particularly in states like Haryana, hinder women’s participation.
• Low Representation: Women make up only 10% of state legislative assemblies, far below the global average of 25.5%.
• Safety Concerns: According to an Amnesty International report, women politicians face severe threats and harassment, deterring their political involvement.
• Resource Constraints: In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, women candidates received only 9% of total political funding (Association for Democratic Reforms).

Conclusion

Civil society groups have significantly contributed to advancing women’s representation in Indian state legislatures. However, addressing challenges such as safety, funding, and systemic barriers remains critical for ensuring that women can participate meaningfully in the political process. Continued support and innovative strategies will be essential for fostering an inclusive political landscape in India.

Model Answer

Introduction

The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976, was enacted to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign contributions by NGOs and individuals in India. The most significant amendments occurred in 2020, aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability. However, these changes have raised concerns regarding their implications for civil society.

Key Amendments and Their Implications

Decrease in Administrative Expenses

One notable amendment reduced the cap on administrative expenses from 50% to 20%. This change severely limits NGOs’ ability to allocate funds for essential operational costs, such as staff salaries, office rent, and training. According to a report by the Centre for Budget and Governance Accountability, this restriction could undermine the sustainability of many organizations (CBGA, 2021).

Prohibition on Sub-Grants

The new regulations prohibit NGOs from transferring foreign funds to other entities, affecting collaboration with smaller grassroots organizations that depend on larger NGOs for financial support. While intended to prevent fund misuse, this restriction may hinder effective program outreach and development in underserved areas (Human Rights Watch, 2020).

Mandatory Aadhaar Requirement

The amendment mandates that NGO office bearers provide Aadhaar numbers for registration and renewal. Critics argue this raises privacy concerns and potential misuse of personal data. The government claims it enhances accountability, but organizations fear it may deter participation due to privacy issues (Privacy International, 2021).

Centralized FCRA Account

NGOs are required to open an FCRA account in a designated State Bank of India branch in Delhi. This centralization can simplify monitoring for the government but may pose logistical challenges for NGOs in remote regions, potentially complicating access to funds (The Hindu, 2020).

Extended Suspension of Registration

The government can now suspend an NGO’s FCRA registration for up to 360 days, increased from 180. This extension provides more time for investigations but risks paralyzing NGOs’ operations due to funding unavailability (Economic and Political Weekly, 2021).

Enhanced Government Discretion

The amendments grant the government greater discretion to cancel FCRA licenses if NGOs are deemed detrimental to public interest. Critics argue this vague criterion could be misused to suppress dissent and limit civil society activities (Amnesty International, 2021).

Conclusion

While the amendments to the FCRA aim to improve accountability, they pose significant challenges to the operational capacity of NGOs in India. Striking a balance between regulation and the vibrant functioning of civil society is crucial for democracy’s health.

Model Answer

Introduction

The emergence of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in India has played a crucial role in developmental activities, particularly in rural areas. While some argue that this growth reflects a gradual withdrawal of the state from development, it can also be viewed as a complementary strategy to empower communities and foster sustainable development.

Role of SHGs in Developmental Activities

Financial Inclusion

SHGs significantly contribute to financial inclusion by providing access to credit, savings, and insurance services, particularly for marginalized groups such as women and the poor. This access enables families to manage finances more effectively and invest in their futures.

Women’s Empowerment

Participation in SHGs empowers women, granting them decision-making power, enhancing self-confidence, and facilitating opportunities for skill development and entrepreneurship. This empowerment is vital for promoting gender equity in society.

Livelihood Generation

SHGs create sustainable livelihood opportunities by facilitating skill development, promoting micro-enterprises, and providing access to markets and resources. This has led to improved economic conditions for many rural households.

Social Cohesion

By uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds, SHGs foster social cohesion and a sense of collective responsibility. This community-driven development approach enhances problem-solving capabilities within communities.

Measures Taken by the Government of India to Promote SHGs

National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM)

Launched in 2011, the NRLM aims to promote SHGs and enhance their capacity to access financial services, develop livelihood opportunities, and participate in decision-making processes.

Micro-Credit Schemes

The government has introduced various micro-credit schemes, such as the Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) and the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, to provide affordable credit to SHGs and support their entrepreneurial activities.

Skill Development Programs

Several skill development and training programs have been initiated to enhance the employability of SHG members, promoting self-reliance and economic independence.

Marketing Support

The government organizes trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets to provide marketing support to SHGs, helping them access broader markets for their products.

Financial Incentives

Financial incentives like interest rate subsidies and credit guarantees are offered to encourage banks to extend credit to SHGs, facilitating their growth and sustainability.

Conclusion

Through various initiatives to support SHGs, the Government of India is fostering a synergistic relationship between state-led efforts and community-based actions. This collaborative approach enhances sustainable, inclusive, and equitable development for all citizens.

Model Answer

Introduction

Development and welfare schemes play a crucial role in uplifting marginalized sections of society, aiming for socio-economic development. While these initiatives are essential for addressing disparities, they can be perceived as discriminatory. This duality requires a nuanced discussion.

Arguments Supporting Discrimination

Focused Approach

Critics argue that schemes like reservation policies in education and government jobs create a perception of unfairness among non-reserved categories. This can dilute meritocracy, leading some to view these measures as discriminatory rather than equitable.

Resource Allocation

Welfare initiatives such as MGNREGA primarily target rural populations, potentially neglecting urban poor communities. This focus can foster feelings of exclusion among those in urban areas who also face significant economic challenges (The Hindu).

Potential for Misuse

Programs like the Public Distribution System (PDS), intended to provide essential commodities to the economically weaker, often face corruption and diversion of resources, undermining their effectiveness.

Creation of Dependency

Schemes providing free utilities to farmers can inadvertently create a dependency culture, discouraging self-reliance and sustainable practices.

Geographical Disparities

Certain schemes, such as the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE), may lead to perceptions of discrimination in regions that do not receive similar attention.

Counter-Arguments: Necessity for Targeted Approaches

Social Justice

Welfare schemes like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao aim to address gender imbalances and promote the education of girls, working towards a more equitable society.

Economic Equity

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana has fostered financial inclusion, bringing many into the formal banking sector and promoting economic equity.

Health and Wellbeing

Ayushman Bharat provides substantial health coverage to the poor, ensuring access to necessary healthcare services.

Educational Equity

The Mid Day Meal Scheme not only promotes education among disadvantaged children but also addresses malnutrition.

Infrastructure Development

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana connects rural areas with urban centers, facilitating access to economic opportunities.

Tribal Empowerment

VAN DHAN YOJANA supports the tribal economy by providing market avenues for forest products.

Conclusion

While criticisms of development and welfare schemes as being discriminatory hold merit, it is essential to recognize their role in promoting inclusivity and equity. A balanced approach that addresses these concerns while continuing to support targeted interventions is crucial for fostering a more equitable society. Effective implementation and monitoring can help ensure these schemes serve their intended purpose without perpetuating discrimination.