UPSC Mains 2024 GS4 Q1a: model answer
The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for administrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the statement from the ethical point of view.
What the question wants
Ethical case for and against using AI as an input in administrative decisions.
How to structure it
Intro: AI already used in governance. Body: (1) ethical gains (consistency, speed, less corruption); (2) ethical risks (bias, opacity, accountability gap, privacy); (3) safeguards (human in the loop, audits). Conclusion: AI as aid, not decider.
- 1(1) ethical gains (consistency, speed, less corruption)
- 2(2) ethical risks (bias, opacity, accountability gap, privacy)
- 3(3) safeguards (human in the loop, audits)
Model answer
AI already sorts grievances, flags tax evaders and predicts crop loss in India. The ethical question is whether it can be trusted as an input for decisions that affect lives.
Ethical gains
- Consistency: similar cases treated alike, fewer whims.
- Less scope for bribery when routine decisions are automated.
- Speed and evidence-based targeting of welfare.
Ethical concerns
- Bias: models trained on past data repeat old discrimination against the poor, women or minorities.
- Opacity: a 'black box' cannot give reasons, which natural justice demands.
- Accountability: who answers for a wrong denial of pension, the officer or the vendor?
- Privacy: large data collection risks surveillance.
- Empathy and context cannot be coded.
Safeguards: human in the loop, explainable AI, bias audits, the right to appeal, and DPDP Act protections.
AI can inform judgement but must not replace it; the responsibility stays with the human officer.
Keywords, cases and data to drop in
algorithmic bias black box accountability human in the loop natural justice
Where most answers lose marks
- Writing only about technology benefits.
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Question text as printed in the official UPSC question paper: https://www.upsc.gov.in/sites/default/files/QP_CSM_2024_GenStud_IV_03102024.pdf The model answer is original Battle IAS work; use it to learn structure, not to memorise.