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Question

Rampura, a remote district inhabited by a tribal population, is marked by extreme backwardness and abject poverty. Agriculture is the mainstay of the local population, though it is primarily subsistence due to the very small land holdings. There is insignificant industrial or mining activity. Even the targeted welfare programs have inadequately benefited the tribal population. In this restrictive scenario, the youth has begun to migrate to other states to supplement the family income. Plight of minor girls is that their parents are persuaded by labour contractors to send them to work in the Bt Cotton farms of a nearby state. The soft fingers of the minor girls are well suited for plucking the cotton. The inadequate living and working conditions in these farms have caused serious health issues for the minor girls. NGOs in the districts of domicile and the cotton farms appear to be compromised and have not effectively espoused the twin issues of child labour and development of the area.

You are appointed as the District Collector of Rampura. Identify the ethical issues involved. Which specific steps will you initiate to ameliorate the conditions of minor girls of your district and to improve the over-all economic scenario in the district?

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2020 (Prelims) CSAT Previous Year Paper (04-Oct-2020)

Assuming the role of District Collector of Rampura, the ethical issues are profound. We face failures in social justice and equity for minor girls, stemming from systemic neglect, gender discrimination, and denial of rights. This highlights a lapse in public service ethics, particularly accountability and responsiveness. Overall economic stagnation points to a lack of frugality and efficient resource use, impacting the community's well-being.

To ameliorate conditions for minor girls:

  1. Enforce Laws: Strictly implement POCSO, Child Marriage Act, and RTE, ensuring safety and education.
  2. Education & Health: Launch "Back to School" drives with incentives, vocational training, and adolescent health services including nutrition and sanitation.
  3. Community Mobilization: Engage women’s SHGs and local leaders to foster protective environments and challenge patriarchal norms.

To improve the overall economic scenario:

  1. Skill Development: Establish centers focusing on local strengths, linking skills to market demands. Promote micro-enterprises.
  2. Infrastructure: Prioritize road connectivity, electricity, and irrigation to attract investment.
  3. Financial Inclusion: Facilitate access to credit for small businesses and farmers through government schemes.
  4. Transparency: Streamline administration, reduce red tape, and combat corruption to create a predictable business environment.
  5. Data-Driven Governance: Implement robust data collection to identify poverty pockets and measure impact.

My approach would be rooted in compassion, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to public welfare, aiming to build a thriving and equitable Rampura.

Answered By:

Anushka Goel

Anushka Goel is a dynamic exam mentor who has cracked multiple competitive exams including CUET, NDA, IBPS Clerk, RRB Office Assistant and SSC CHSL. With a strong academic record and a strategic approach to exam preparation, she has mentored thousands of students in their early career journey. Anushka is known for curating smart, concept-driven MCQs and study resources that closely align with actual exam trends.

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