On February 8, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman brought forward a "white paper" based on the Indian Economy in the Parliament. The document makes a comparison between the 10-year economic governance records of the Congress-led government and the BJP-led governments.
In response, the Congress Party has released a "Black Paper". The black paper presents the analysis of the Narendra Modi government's governance so far.
What exactly is meant by a "White Paper"?
A white paper is one that usually provides extensive data regarding a specific matter. A white paper might be presented by the government on a specific issue, such as corruption in the country. This white paper thus will carry comprehensive information regarding corruption in the country along with the possible solutions to the problem. The aim of a white paper is to foster better decision-making and present the right solutions and recommendations for the actions ahead. Usually, a white paper is produced by organizations, experts, and governments.
Therefore, the paper presented in the Parliament was not actually a white paper in the literal sense. The paper presented by the center carried a comparison based on a wide range of economic parameters between the records of the two governments.
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What are some key characteristics of a White Paper?
First things first, what makes it a white paper is the fact that it contains comprehensive information about an issue. The information presented in a white paper is detailed in nature and carries all the dots of a matter.
However, what makes this information reliable is the fact that white papers carry an objective tone. A white paper is free of all biases and carries a neutral tone.
What makes a white paper even more credible is the fact that it is based on reliable sources. These sources are often research findings and authoritative sources.
It is also important to note that one of the most important characteristics of a white paper is that it aims to inform and educate policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public.
In that case, what exactly is a "Black Paper"?
A Black Paper, unlike a White Paper shows a critical viewpoint on a specific policy, topic, or issue. The Black Paper presents a critical analysis of the prevailing policies, issues, or narratives. It caters to controversial subjects. Moreover, a Black Paper also carries the right evidence to support the arguments and also presents alternative approaches.
What are some key characteristics of a Black Paper?
First things first, a black paper provides a detailed critical evaluation of the already existing views, practices, and policies.
Secondly, a Black Paper presents dissent with regard to a specific matter.
Often, a black paper caters to controversial issues that need thorough critical evaluation.
Next, it is important to note that the oppositional stance taken in a black paper is not based on personal opinions and biases. Rather, just like in the case of a white paper, a black paper also relies on credible resources.
The Takeaway
Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and the president of Congress presented the Black Paper even prior to the release of the White Paper by the government. Originally, the Budget Session of the Parliament was expected to end on February 9, but it got extended by a day till February 10 for the purpose of discussing the White Paper.
As far as the concepts of white and black papers are concerned, it is important to note that both black and white papers serve distinct ye important functions in organizational, academic, and governmental settings.
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