Context (IE | IE | TH): Recently, FM Nirmala Sitharaman presented a White Paper on the Indian economy in the Lok Sabha.
It highlighted the “policy misadventures and scams” under the Congress-led UPA government’s 10-year tenure.
In response to that, the Congress party has released a ‘Black Paper’. It highlighted the failures of the Modi government and alleged that the last 10 years have been a period of injustice.
What is White Paper?
It provides comprehensive information, analysis, and proposals on a specific topic or issue.
Stanford Law School says the public can access the document.
It offers a detailed assessment of economic indicators, reforms, and their implications for various sectors.
Governments, organisations, or experts often produce it to shape the policy.
It serves as a crucial tool for informing policymakers, stakeholders, and the public about the government’s policies, initiatives, and their intended impact on the economy.
There are no specific rules or guidelines regarding the issuance of White Papers in the Lok Sabha.
The Opposition also has the right to demand a White Paper from the government on matters regarding which it is unclear.
The state government can also present it in an assembly.
Modi Govt. has presented 2 white papers in 10 years.
On the revenue model for the railways in August 2014
On the rationalisation of freight and fares. (Source: One India)
What is black paper?
It presents a critical or dissenting viewpoint on a particular topic, issue, or policy.
It uses analysis, evidence, and alternative proposals to address controversial subjects.
