UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Statements A, B, C and E are correct because they describe multi-actor governance, unequal burdens on disadvantaged groups, location of informal settlements and the role of participation in improving accountability. Statement D is false since user charges can be designed with lifeline tariffs or subsidies to protect poorer users. Statement F is false because decentralisation outcomes depend on power structures, capacity and accountability mechanisms. Thus, the option containing A, B, C and E while excluding D and F is correct.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect as it omits E and therefore does not mention participatory budgeting and planning, which are important innovations for more inclusive urban governance.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it excludes C, so it fails to emphasise the spatial concentration of disadvantaged groups in high-risk locations, which is central to urban environmental inequities.

Option C:
Option C is correct since it integrates governance structures, justice concerns, spatial patterns and participatory tools, while rejecting simplistic claims about user charges and decentralisation.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect as it includes D, which claims user charges cannot be pro-poor, even though carefully designed tariffs can protect vulnerable users.