Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: Both I and II follow.
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This course of action problem deals with an Institute that has been criticised by a Committee for not implementing its regular programmes despite increased staff strength and for not preparing a firm action plan for studies and research. You must decide which of the suggested courses of action are logical responses to this criticism. The question focuses on accountability and structural reform in an academic or research institution.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Logical courses of action in this context should:
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Evaluate course of action II first. If an Institute fails to implement planned programmes, it is reasonable and necessary for it to explain why. A report that gives reasons for non implementation helps the Committee and oversight bodies to understand obstacles, such as resource issues, management problems, or unrealistic targets. Therefore, II clearly follows as a demand for accountability.
Step 2: Evaluate course of action I. The criticism also indicates that even with increased staff, the Institute could not implement programmes or create a proper action plan. This may suggest that current objectives are too broad, vague, or misaligned with actual capacity. Redefining broad objectives to make them more practical can help translate them into an implementable action plan. Thus, I is a logical longer term reform step.
Step 3: Consider how I and II relate. II addresses past failure by seeking explanation. I looks to the future by aligning objectives with realistic planning. They are complementary and not mutually exclusive.
Step 4: Decide which courses follow. Since both accountability for the past and structural reform for the future are sensible, both I and II follow.
Verification / Alternative check:
Think of a real Institute in such a situation. It would first be asked to justify why programmes were not completed, which matches II. Then governance bodies might ask it to revise its objectives and planning method to avoid repetition of the same problem, which matches I. If only II is done, reasons are known but systemic issues may continue. If only I is done, changes are made without understanding what went wrong earlier. Combining both steps is the most rational approach, confirming our conclusion.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates may focus only on punishment or explanation and ignore the need for structural improvements, while others may jump only to reforms without seeking accountability for past failures. Logical course of action questions often expect you to recognise both dimensions when the statement clearly shows systemic issues and repeated non implementation.
Final Answer:
Both I and II follow.
Discussion & Comments