RAS question
The National Youth Policy 2026 represents a shift towards which governance model?
Correct answer: (B) Participatory, digitally enabled, outcome-focused governance.
The proposed National Youth Policy 2026 represents a shift towards a participatory, digitally enabled and outcome-focused youth governance framework.
Explanation
The proposed National Youth Policy 2026 is framed as a move beyond the broader guiding approach of the National Youth Policy 2014 towards a more structured and outcome-oriented paradigm. PIB states that MY Bharat supports this shift by operating as a digital ecosystem for youth registration, profiling and participation in experiential learning, volunteering and multi-stakeholder events. The consultative policy process, including feedback through MY Gov and MY Bharat along with inter-ministerial and State/UT consultations, explains the participatory element. Real-time dashboards and the Output-Outcome Monitoring Framework support systematic tracking of youth engagement and programme effectiveness. Together, these features make option B the precise governance model described.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) A centralised top-down model is ruled out because the policy formulation process is described as consultative, with citizen feedback and State/UT-level consultations.
- (C) A privatised governance model is not supported because public policy tools, ministry-linked platforms and official monitoring frameworks are described, not transfer of governance to private actors.
- (D) Regional autonomous governance is not the shift described; State/UT consultations are mentioned, but the policy is presented as a national youth governance framework aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047.
Concept
This tests governance models in policy design, especially how participation, digital platforms and outcome monitoring shape implementation. RAS repeatedly asks such questions because current government schemes are often examined through their administrative design, not just their names.