Mains Answer Writing - 18 Feb, 2026
GS2
Indian Polity
15 marks
The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 has amended provisions of the Right to Information framework regarding disclosure of personal information. Examine whether prioritising data privacy over transparency affects democratic accountability in India.
Tips for your answer
- Start with the constitutional tension – briefly frame privacy vs transparency: link RTI to democratic accountability (Art. 19(1)(a)) and privacy to dignity (Puttaswamy judgment). This sets analytical depth in 2–3 lines.
- Compare old vs new position – explain how earlier “public interest override” allowed disclosure of personal info of public officials, and how the amendment risks automatic denial → impact on corruption checks, welfare schemes, and public funds monitoring.
- End with balanced conclusion + solution – don’t take an extreme stand; suggest safeguards: proportionality test, harm-based disclosure, role of Information Commissions, and clear guidelines to reconcile privacy with transparency.
More Challenges
View All- View Challenge
GS2
Indian Polity
26 Feb, 2026
“Changing the name of a State in India reflects the cooperative yet asymmetrical nature of Indian federalism.”
Discuss the constitutional procedure for renaming a State and examine the role played by the State Legislature and Parliament in this process. - View Challenge
GS3
Economy
Yesterday
“Asset monetisation has emerged as a critical pillar of India’s infrastructure financing strategy.”
In this context, critically examine the objectives, mechanisms and challenges of the National Monetisation Pipeline 2.0 (NMP 2.0). How can it contribute to sustainable infrastructure development while safeguarding public interest? - View Challenge
GS3
Internal Security
24 Feb, 2026
“Modern terrorism is increasingly technology-driven rather than territory-driven.”
Examine this statement in the context of recent counter-terrorism challenges faced by India.
Master Answer Writingfor UPSC Mains
Join thousands of aspirants mastering answer writing with daily challenges, instant AI evaluation, and topper copies
