All 8 questions from UPSC Civil Services Mains Public Administration
2025 Paper I (400 marks total). Every stem reproduced in full,
with directive-word analysis, marks, word limits, and answer-approach pointers.
8Questions
400Total marks
2025Year
Paper IPaper
Topics covered
Public Choice, decision-making, media accountability, administrative principles, administrative law (1)New Public Management, New Public Governance, Mary Parker Follett, socio-psychological approach, Public Private Partnership (1)Leadership in conflict, rule of law foundations, checks and balances (1)Delegated legislation, administrative discretion, leadership accountability, bureaucracy theory (1)E-governance, neo-liberal taxation, policy analysis, civil service ethics, women empowerment (1)Riggs's industria, state role in development, affirmative action in public services (1)LPG and NPM paradox, comparative public administration approaches, competency mapping (1)Civil society and state, tacit knowledge in policy making, management aid tools (1)
A
Q1
50M150wCompulsoryexplainPublic Choice, decision-making, media accountability, administrative principles, administrative law
Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) Imperfect market and political factors limit the application of Public Choice approach. Explain. (10 marks)
(b) The fine art of decision-making is not making decisions that others can make. Comment. (10 marks)
(c) Has the media nixed its role in holding the governments accountable and ensuring transparency? Argue. (10 marks)
(d) Is Herbert Simon justified in criticizing some principles of administration as proverbs? Analyse. (10 marks)
(e) Administrative Law has evolved from the need to create a system of Public Administration under law. Elucidate. (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक प्रश्न का उत्तर लगभग 150 शब्दों में लिखिए :
(a) अपूर्ण बाजार और राजनीतिक घटक लोक चयन उपागम के अनुप्रयोग को सीमित करते हैं । समझाइए । (10 अंक)
(b) निर्णय लेने की उत्कृष्ट कला वह निर्णय लेना नहीं है जो दूसरे ले सकते हैं । टिप्पणी कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(c) क्या संचार माध्यमों ने सरकारों को जवाबदेह बनाने और पारदर्शिता सुनिश्चित करने की अपनी भूमिका को शून्य बना दिया है ? तर्क प्रस्तुत कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(d) क्या हरबर्ट साइमन की प्रशासन के कतिपय सिद्धांतों की लोकोक्तियों के रूप में आलोचना न्यायसंगत है ? विश्लेषण कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(e) प्रशासनिक विधि कानून के अधीन लोक प्रशासन की व्यवस्था को सुजित करने की आवश्यकता से उत्पन्न हुई है । स्पष्ट कीजिए । (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Public Administration Theory & Indian Institutional Application. (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) comment: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (d) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (e) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise theory + Indian anchor + critical analysis
50MexamineNew Public Management, New Public Governance, Mary Parker Follett, socio-psychological approach, Public Private Partnership
(a) New Public Management has actually been a transitory state in evolution from traditional Public Administration to what is here called New Public Governance. Examine. (20 marks)
(b) Mary Parker Follett pioneered the evolution of socio-psychological approach to the study of organizations. Explain. (15 marks)
(c) Under the New Public Management framework 'Public Private Partnership' challenges the entropy of closed and open models of organization. Analyse. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) वास्तव में नव लोक प्रबंध, परंपरागत लोक प्रशासन से लेकर जिसे अब नव लोक शासन कहते हैं तक के उद्भव में एक अल्पकालिक अवस्था रही है । परीक्षण कीजिए । (20 अंक)
(b) मेरी पार्कर फॉलेट ने संगठन के अध्ययन की सामाजिक-मनोवैज्ञानिक उपागम के उद्भव का मार्ग प्रशस्त किया । व्याख्या कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(c) नव लोक प्रबंध रूपरेखा के अधीन 'सार्वजनिक निज भागीदारी' संगठन के बंद और खुले प्रतिमानों के उत्क्रम-माप को चुनौतियाँ देती है । विश्लेषण कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: New Public Management (NPM) to New Public Governance (NPG) transition. (a) examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward Full marks: Comprehensive analysis with clear distinctions, Indian examples, and strong theoretical grounding.
Define NPM's market-oriented features (efficiency, privatization).
Identify NPM's limitations (fragmentation, lack of accountability).
50MdiscussLeadership in conflict, rule of law foundations, checks and balances
(a) In conflict situations in organizations, leadership migrates to the aggressive and relegates the emotionally matured to the background. Discuss. (20 marks)
(b) The foundations of Public Administration, New Public Management and Public Governance rest on 'rule of law'. Discuss. (15 marks)
(c) The principles of checks and balances count among the most fundamental constitutional values. Comment. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) संगठनों की संघर्षपूर्ण स्थितियों में, नेतृत्व आक्रामक रूप को धारण करता है तथा भावुकतापूर्ण परिपक्व को पृष्ठभूमि में धकेलता है । विवेचना कीजिए । (20 अंक)
(b) लोक प्रशासन, नव लोक प्रबंध और लोक शासन की आधारशिलाएँ 'विधि के शासन' पर आधारित हैं । विवेचना कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(c) अवरोध और संतुलन का सिद्धान्त महत्वपूर्ण संवैधानिक मूल्यों में गिना जाता है । टिप्पणी कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Concept > Thinker > Indian institutional application > Reform. (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) comment: context > arguments both sides > judgment > close Full marks: Demonstrates deep understanding of all three concepts with precise Indian institutional examples, clear distinctions between frameworks, and references to specific constitutional provisions or judgments.
Define the paradox of aggressive vs. mature leadership in conflict
Explain why aggression often dominates in high-stress organizational settings
Provide an Indian administrative or corporate conflict example
Discuss the long-term costs of relegating emotional maturity
Define 'rule of law' in the context of public administration
Link rule of law to traditional Public Administration foundations
Explain the role of rule of law in New Public Management
Connect rule of law to modern Public Governance frameworks
50MexplainDelegated legislation, administrative discretion, leadership accountability, bureaucracy theory
(a) "Delegated legislation should be clear and should confine to the limits determined by the legislature." In light of the statement explain how misuse of administrative discretion can be checked? (20 marks)
(b) Leadership is not only about taking credit for success but also owning up and being accountable for failures. Elucidate. (15 marks)
(c) Bureaucracy constitutes the imaginary state and is the spiritualism of the State. Explain. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) "प्रत्यायोजित विधान सुस्पष्ट और विधायिका द्वारा निर्धारित सीमाओं के अन्तर्गत होना चाहिए ।" उपर्युक्त कथन के प्रकाश में व्याख्या कीजिए कि किस प्रकार प्रशासनिक स्वविवेक के दुरुपयोग को नियंत्रित किया जा सकता है ? (20 अंक)
(b) नेतृत्व न केवल सफलताओं का श्रेय लेना है बल्कि असफलताओं को स्वीकार करना और उसके प्रति उत्तरदायी होना भी है । स्पष्ट कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(c) नौकरशाही काल्पनिक राज्य है और वह राज्य का आध्यात्मिकबाद है । व्याख्या कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Public Administration Paper 1 (Concept > Thinker > Indian Application > Reform). (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with specific Indian examples and critical analysis.
Judicial review via writs (Art 32/226)
Legislative control (Parliamentary committees)
Administrative control (LDA, Ombudsman)
Delegation doctrine (essential functions)
Definition of accountable leadership
Distinction between credit-taking and responsibility
50M150wCompulsorydiscussE-governance, neo-liberal taxation, policy analysis, civil service ethics, women empowerment
Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) E-advocacy model of e-governance can facilitate democratization of public policy making. Discuss. (10 marks)
(b) Neo-liberal policies have enhanced the scope and opportunities of taxation for the government. Explain. (10 marks)
(c) Policy analysis process is limited if possible outcomes and alternate potential policies are neglected. Discuss. (10 marks)
(d) Values and ethics in civil services are shaped by global practices and trends. Explain. (10 marks)
(e) Economic development alone is not a sufficient component for women development and empowerment. Discuss. (10 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक प्रश्न का उत्तर लगभग 150 शब्दों में लिखिए :
(a) ई-गवर्नेंस का ई-एडवोकैसी प्रतिमान लोक नीति निर्माण के लोकतंत्रीकरण को सुगम बना सकता है । विवेचना कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(b) नव-उदारवादी नीतियों ने सरकार के लिए कराधान के विषय-क्षेत्र और अवसरों को बढ़ा दिया है । व्याख्या कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(c) यदि संभावित परिणामों और वैकल्पिक संभाव्य नीतियों की उपेक्षा की जाती है तो नीति विश्लेषण प्रक्रिया सीमित हो जाती है । विवेचना कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(d) सिविल सेवाओं के मूल्यों एवं नैतिकता को वैश्विक प्रथाएँ और प्रवृत्तियाँ स्वरूपित करती हैं । व्याख्या कीजिए । (10 अंक)
(e) महिलाओं के विकास एवं सशक्तिकरण के लिये केवल मात्र आर्थिक विकास ही पर्याप्त घटक नहीं है । विवेचना कीजिए । (10 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Concept > Thinker > Indian institutional application > Reform. (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (d) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (e) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with specific Indian examples and theoretical depth.
Define e-advocacy as a specific e-governance model
Explain how it facilitates citizen participation in policy
Provide an Indian example (e.g., MyGov, RTI portal)
50ManalyseRiggs's industria, state role in development, affirmative action in public services
(a) F. W. Riggs's 'industria'-interdependent economy is a precursor for some features of post-modern Public Administration. Analyse. (20 marks)
(b) The role and responsibility of the State in the development process has been overemphasized and given undue importance. Critically examine. (15 marks)
(c) Affirmative action for equal opportunity is a corner-stone in recruitment to public services. Discuss it in global context. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) एक. डब्लू. रिग्स की 'औद्योगिक'-अन्तर्निर्भर अर्थव्यवस्था उत्तर-आधुनिक लोक प्रशासन के कतिपय लक्षणों की पूर्वसूचक है । विश्लेषण कीजिए । (20 अंक)
(b) विकास प्रक्रिया में राज्य की भूमिका एवं उत्तरदायित्व को आवश्यकता से अधिक बल और अनावश्यक महत्व दिया गया है । आलोचनात्मक परीक्षण कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(c) लोक सेवाओं में भर्ती के लिए समान अवसर सुनिश्चित करने में सकारात्मक कार्रवाई एक आधार स्तम्भ है । वैश्विक सन्दर्भ में इसका विश्लेषण कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: F. W. Riggs's Ecological Model (SAMS). (a) analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward | (b) critique: the claim > its strengths > its weaknesses > your judgment | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Deep analysis of Riggs' model with strong Indian examples; balanced critique of State role; comprehensive global discussion of affirmative action.
Define 'industria' as interdependent economy
Identify specific post-modern PA features
Explain the causal link/precursor relationship
Provide Indian administrative instance
State the claim of overemphasis
Arguments for State's essential role (market failure)
50MelaborateLPG and NPM paradox, comparative public administration approaches, competency mapping
(a) The objective of Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization and of New Public Management was to limit government functions and reduce public expenditure. However both functions and expenditure has increased. Account for the paradox. (20 marks)
(b) The basis of comparative study of Public Administration has evolved from institutional approach to the contemporary political economic process approach. Have all these approaches enabled the development of a theory of Comparative Public Administration? Justify your answer. (15 marks)
(c) Can competency mapping linked to career development incentivise civil servants commitment to effective service delivery? Elaborate. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) उदारीकरण, निजीकरण और वैश्वीकरण तथा नव लोक प्रबन्ध का उद्देश्य सरकारी कार्यों को सीमित करना और सार्वजनिक व्यय को कम करना था । तथापि कार्यों और व्यय दोनों में वृद्धि हुई है । विरोधाभास के कारण बताइये । (20 अंक)
(b) लोक प्रशासन के तुलनात्मक अध्ययन का आधार संस्थागत उपागम से समकालीन राजनीतिक-आर्थिक प्रक्रिया उपागम तक विकसित हुआ है । क्या इन सभी उपागमों ने तुलनात्मक लोक प्रशासन के सिद्धान्त के विकास को आसान बनाया है ? अपने उत्तर की पुष्टि कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(c) क्या क्षमता मानचित्रण को सिविल सेवकों के जीवनवृत्ति विकास के साथ जोड़ना प्रभावी सेवा प्रदायगी के प्रति प्रतिबद्धता को प्रोत्साहित कर सकता है ? विस्तार से व्याख्या कीजिए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Public Administration Paper 1. (a) account for: state the phenomenon > the causes in order of weight > conclusion | (b) justify: claim > 3-4 reasons > evidence > conclusion | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise definitions, strong Indian anchors, clear analytical link to the specific command word, and balanced conclusion.
Define LPG and New Public Management (NPM) objectives
Identify causes of rising government functions (e.g., welfare, security)
Identify causes of rising expenditure (e.g., subsidies, debt)
Link theory to Indian administrative reality
Define Institutional Approach vs Political-Economic Process Approach
Evaluate the contribution of each to theory development
Provide examples of comparative studies (e.g., India vs US)
Conclude on the existence/validity of a unified theory
50MdiscussCivil society and state, tacit knowledge in policy making, management aid tools
(a) The effectiveness of civil society in development process is only when state institutions are receptive to inputs from the civil society organizations. Discuss. (20 marks)
(b) Evaluate the role and scope of tacit knowledge and personal experience as an important source of knowledge in policy making process. (15 marks)
(c) The efficacy of management aid tools depends on the purpose and appropriateness of tools and techniques. Explain with examples. (15 marks)
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) विकास प्रक्रिया में नागरिक समाज की प्रभावशीलता तभी संभव है जब राज्य संस्थाएं नागरिक समाज संगठनों से प्राप्त सुझावों को स्वीकार करें । विवेचना कीजिए । (20 अंक)
(b) नीति निर्माण प्रक्रिया में ज्ञान के एक महत्वपूर्ण स्रोत के रूप में उपलब्धिज्ञान और व्यक्तिगत अनुभव की भूमिका का मूल्यांकन कीजिए । (15 अंक)
(c) प्रबन्धकीय सहायक साधनों की प्रभावकारिता उपकरणों और तकनीकों के उद्देश्य और उपयुक्तता पर निर्भर करती है । उदाहरणों सहित समझाइए । (15 अंक)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Public Administration Paper 1 (SLPM-P-PBD). (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) evaluate: criteria > evidence > balanced judgment | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Comprehensive analysis with Indian institutional anchors, specific examples, and balanced judgment
Define the role of civil society in development
Explain the necessity of state receptivity
Provide Indian examples of state-civil society interaction