AdminModel Answers to PYQs (2019-2024)
1] Critically assess the role of pressure groups in the decision-making process of the government. [2024/15m/200w/7c]
A pressure group is an organized group that seeks to influence government policy or at times public opinion without seeking to directly assume power. As defined by Gabriel Almond, “interest articulation structures,” that convey the demands of their members to the political system.
In India, we have multiple organized and unorganized pressure groups representing the interests of different groups. Acting as intermediaries between the public and government, these groups affect various aspects of government policy.
Douglas Verney in his analysis, describes how business pressure groups compete with labour unions for economic policy influence. These groups enjoy significant access to policymakers and at times overpower grassroots or labour organizations. In India, the 2019 corporate tax cut can be cited as a major achievement by the lobbying efforts of business pressure groups like FICCI and CII.
On similar lines, Rajni Kothari suggests that pressure groups, like those representing Dalits and marginalized communities, often struggle against well-funded economic groups and face considerable challenges.
Rudolph and Rudolph on the other hand suggest that pressure groups that align with political parties to maximize their influence. However, they also warn that such affiliations lead to intense competition among pressure groups, sometimes shifting their focus from issue-based advocacy to partisan alignment.
In India, there are numerous pressure groups, representing at times, competing socio-economic interests. Together these form the mosaic of Indian polity and affect policy making. [229 words]
The post contains answers to the last 6-year papers i.e. (2024-2019). Answers to the previous year questions from 2013-2024 are a part of our book PSIR Optional Model Answers to PYQs (2013-2024). Click here to know more.
