QUESTION 2(a)
GS4
10 marks
Impact of digital technology as reliable source of input for rational decision making is a debatable issue. Critically evaluate with suitable example.
WRITE IN
7 min
150 words
What the examiner wants
Critically evaluate whether digital technology gives reliable inputs for rational decision-making, with an example.
Critically evaluateJudge the merits and the limits with evidence, and give a clear verdict.
Demand-wise check
- 1Supports: data-driven targeting (JAM trinity, DBT), dashboards, predictive analytics, less discretion≈30 words
- 2Limits: data errors and exclusion (Aadhaar authentication failures), algorithmic bias, privacy, digital divide, over-reliance≈30 words
- 3Example from Indian governance≈30 words
- 4Conclusion: technology informs judgement but cannot replace it≈30 words
Open in about 20 words and close in about 20.
Answer plan
ContextBenefits with exampleLimits with exampleBalanced verdict
Where marks usually go
- One-sided praise of technology
- No example although asked
Draw this
- Balance scale: reliability vs risks
Value addition
- ExampleDBT cut leakages; the government claims cumulative savings of about ₹3.5 lakh crore by removing fake beneficiaries.DBT Mission
- ExampleRation denials due to biometric authentication failures in Jharkhand (2017–18) showed the risk of technology-only decisions.Right to Food Campaign / media reports
Mapped topper copies
Reviewed public-source references related to this PYQ. Same-syllabus references are labelled separately.
- Abhishek Singh · Page 12 ↗Reviewed PYQ reference
- Ritika Chitlangia · Page 14 ↗Reviewed PYQ reference
- Shakti Dubey · AIR 1 · Page 3 ↗Same syllabus reference
- Aakash Garg · AIR 5 · Page 7 ↗Same syllabus reference
Links open original public sources. MainsBuddy does not host these answer sheets.
Next: plan for one minute, write it in 7 minutes, then get it checked.