20 marks
250 words
Case study
You are a District Magistrate. A powerful local politician pressures you to clear an industrial project that violates environmental norms, hinting that your transfer depends on it. The project would bring jobs but harm a nearby wetland and the livelihoods of fisherfolk. What options do you have and what will you do?
Decoding the directive: “Case study”
Use the case-study method: stakeholders → dilemmas → options with pros/cons → decision → justification and safeguards.
What UPSC is really asking
The examiner tests your decision-making method and integrity under pressure — not a heroic speech. Identify every stakeholder, name the ethical dilemmas (development vs. environment, career vs. duty), lay out realistic options honestly, then commit to a lawful, defensible course.
Dimensions the examiner expects
Cover these dimensions
- Stakeholders — fisherfolk, politician, industry, environment, you, the public
- Dilemmas — jobs vs. ecology; career security vs. rule of law
- Options — comply, refuse outright, or seek a lawful middle path (compliance-conditioned clearance)
- Chosen action — uphold environmental law; document; escalate through proper channels
- Safeguards & consequences — transparency, record-keeping, willingness to face transfer
Concepts & keywords to name
Use the right vocabulary
- Public office as public trust — duty over career
- Rule of law & due process — environmental clearance norms
- Courage of conviction — a civil-service value
- Sustainable development — reconciling jobs and ecology
Common mistakes to avoid
Don’t do this
- Writing a moral lecture with no options analysis
- Ignoring the fisherfolk / environment stakeholders
- Choosing an unrealistic “I will resign” with no reasoning
- Not addressing how to protect the record and yourself lawfully
Quick hints before you write
Structuring tips
- Show at least three options with honest pros and cons before deciding.
- Ground your decision in specific law and in service values.
- Address consequences — including accepting a possible transfer.
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