In response to the Central government’s decision to present a ‘White Paper’ scrutinizing the economic performance during the UPA government’s 10-year tenure (2004-2014), the Congress party has released a ‘Black Paper’ highlighting the Narendra Modi government’s decade-long governance. Congress President and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, presented the ‘Black Paper’ today, before the release of government’s White Paper.
The Budget Session of Parliament was expented by a day until February 10 to discuss the White paper. Originally scheduled to conclude on February 9, the session was extended for an additional day. Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Pralhad Joshi, announced the government’s plan to table a ‘White Paper’ comparing the economic landscape pre and post-2014, emphasizing the transition from UPA rule to BJP governance. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will lead the presentation of this ‘White Paper’, aiming to showcase the alleged economic downturn during the Congress-led UPA era and the subsequent revival under the current administration led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Black Papers and White Papers serve different functions in academic, governmental, and organizational settings. Here’s a breakdown of their characteristics:
What’s Black Paper?
A Black Paper presents a critical or dissenting viewpoint on a particular topic, issue, or policy. It challenges prevailing narratives, policies, or viewpoints through critical analysis, addressing controversial subjects, providing evidence, and proposing alternative approaches.
Characteristics of Black Papers:
- Critical Analysis: Involves critical analysis and evaluation of existing policies, practices, or viewpoints.
- Oppositional Stance: Expresses opposition or dissent, challenging prevailing narratives or perspectives.
- Controversial Topics: Often addresses contentious or controversial topics, offering alternative viewpoints or interpretations.
- Evidence-Based Arguments: Relies on evidence, data, and logical arguments to support critical assessment and perspective.
- Advocacy for Change: May advocate for policy changes, reforms, or alternative approaches to address perceived deficiencies or injustices.
What’s White Paper?
In contrast, a White Paper provides comprehensive information, analysis, and proposals on a specific topic or issue. It aims to inform decision-making processes, propose solutions, or present recommendations for action. It’s often produced by governments, organizations, or experts to shape the policy.A White Paper 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. It offers a detailed assessment of economic indicators, reforms, and their implications for various sectors.
Characteristics of White Papers:
- Comprehensive Information: Offers detailed and comprehensive information on a particular topic, issue, or policy.
- Objective Tone: Maintains an objective and neutral tone, presenting information and analysis without strong opinions or biases.
- Policy Recommendations: May include proposals or recommendations for policy changes, initiatives, or reforms based on thorough analysis and research.
- Authoritative Sources: Often cites authoritative sources, research findings, and expert opinions to support arguments and recommendations.
- Educational and Informative: Aims to educate stakeholders, policymakers, and the public about complex issues, providing insights and analysis to facilitate informed decision-making.
