UPSC MAINS ANSWER WRITING

Approach to Answer: ​1. Introduction (approx. 30-40 words): ​Acknowledge the constitutional status of Parliament (Article 79) as the central institution of Indian democracy. ​Mention its multi-functional role: legislation, oversight of the executive, representation, and deliberation. ​2. Body - Part 1: Factors contributing to the decline/questioning of efficacy (approx. 100 words): ​Decline in sitting days: Parliament meets for fewer days annually compared to earlier decades. ​Bypassing Committees: A significant number of bills are not referred to Department Related Parliamentary Standing Committees (DRSCs) for scrutiny. ​Falling quality of debate: Rushed passage of important bills without adequate discussion (e.g., using the "guillotine"). ​Ordinance Raj: Re-promulgation of ordinances, which undermines Parliament's primary legislative role. ​Executive Dominance & Whipping: Anti-defection law often reduces legislators to voting as per party dictates, curbing independent deliberation. ​Disruptions: Frequent adjournments due to political deadlocks. ​3. Body - Part 2: Measures to restore efficacy (approx. 80 words): ​Mandatory Scrutiny: Make it mandatory to refer all major bills to committees. ​Calendar of Sittings: Fix a minimum number of working days per year. ​Strengthening the Opposition: Codify rights for the opposition (e.g., a 'Shadow Cabinet' concept or specific days for opposition-led debates). ​Effective use of tools: Revitalize Question Hour and Zero Hour. ​Speaker's role: Ensure the Speaker acts impartially to facilitate debate rather than just manage numbers. ​4. Conclusion (approx. 30-40 words): ​Summarize that a robust Parliament is essential for a healthy democracy. ​Conclude that structural and procedural reforms are needed to ensure it remains a vibrant forum for "Deliberation and Accountability."