Topic: Agriculture; Government Budgeting.
5) Critically analyse the merits and shortcomings of three new measures that were announced in the recent union budget with an aim to address agrarian distress in India. Also examine what else could have been introduced in the budget to address agrarian distress. (250 Words)
Why this question?
This question, in one place, tries to test your understanding of the issues surrounding new agriculture related initiatives/measures announced in recent budget. Important question for Mains -2018.
Key demand of the question:
You should focus more on demerits of these new announcements. Mention few positives too. And also write on missing initiatives to address rural distress.
Directive Word:
Critically analyse: in parts, examine in detail TWO main parts. Here you can give your opinion as well (Analyse = Examine + Opinion)
Examine: In the Second part of the question, you just have to present facts.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction write why agrarian distress needs holistic, practical solutions. Also highlight importance of political will.
In the body, in THREE parts, analyse and examine merits, shortcomings and missing initiatives in the recent union budget. As stated above, be critical and write more about demerits. (some have this notion that we should not criticise government! You are required to objectively analyse issues, hence wherever there are loopholes, you need to comment on them. But do so objectively with facts. Also praise wherever good things exist)
In the conclusion, suggest why it’s urgent to address agrarian distress. (or come up with a thoughtful conclusion where your concern should be evident)
