OPSC OAS 2022 PrelimsPolityQuestion 15
Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2022 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
During which part of the ‘public policy cycle’ does the government explore potential policy responses?
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (B) Policy formulation
Explaination
The government explores potential policy responses in Policy Formulation.
Public Policy Cycle stages in order:
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Agenda Setting | Identifying and recognising the problem requiring government attention |
| 2. Policy Formulation | Government explores potential policy responses, analyses alternatives, consults stakeholders and experts |
| 3. Policy Adoption | Officially selecting and approving a particular policy option |
| 4. Policy Implementation | Executing the chosen policy through government machinery |
| 5. Policy Evaluation | Assessing effectiveness and outcomes of the implemented policy |
| 6. Policy Feedback | Using evaluation results to revise, continue or terminate the policy |
Policy Formulation specifically involves:
- Identifying all possible policy alternatives
- Cost-benefit analysis of each option
- Consulting experts, stakeholders and interest groups
- Examining technical and financial feasibility
- Drafting the actual policy document or legislation
- Narrowing down to the most suitable response
It is at this stage that the government actively explores, designs, and deliberates on what the policy response should be. Policy Feedback on the other hand is the final stage dealing with review and revision based on outcomes.
