GS-II · UPSC Mains PYQGovernance 2021 10 Marks
Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.
Microtheme: SHGs · Asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2021.
Model Answer Approach
- Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to SHGs.
- Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.
- Body: 2–3 thematic sub-heads with crisp points, examples and counter-arguments. Add a relevant case study or committee/report.
- Conclusion (30–40 words): Forward-looking — recommendations, way forward, or a constitutional/ethical anchor.
Structure Checklist
- ✓ Definition / context in intro
- ✓ Minimum 1 data point or report
- ✓ Multi-dimensional arguments
- ✓ Counter-view / limitations
- ✓ Diagram, flowchart or map (if applicable)
- ✓ Way forward in conclusion
Keywords to Use
viciousinequalitypovertymalnutritionthroughmicrofinancingexplainexamples
Related UPSC Mains Questions
From the same microtheme — SHGs.
- “Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine, is aimed at asset creation and income security of the rural poor in India”. Evaluate the role of Self Help Groups in achieving the twin objectives along with empowering women in rural India.📅 2020 · 📌 15
- ‘The emergence of Self Help Groups(SHGs) in contemporary times points to the slow but steady withdrawal of the state from developmental activities’. Examine the role of the SHGs in developmental activities and the measures taken by the Govern- ment of India to promote the SHGs.📅 2017 · 📌 15
- The Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP), which is India’s own in- novation, has proved to be one of the most effective poverty alleviation and women empowerment programmes. Elucidate.📅 2015 · 📌 12.5
- The penetration of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in rural areas in promoting participation in development programmes is facing socio-cultural hurdles. Examine.📅 2014 · 📌 12.5
- The legitimacy and accountability of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and their patrons, the micro-finance outfits, need systematic assessment and scrutiny for the sustained success of the concept. Discuss.📅 2013 · 📌 10
