Read the passage given below:
Public sector procurement is increasingly adopting automated algorithmic decision-making systems to streamline vendor selection and optimize resource allocation. While proponents argue that these automated systems reduce administrative overhead and mitigate human bias, recent empirical evaluations reveal significant governance challenges. Algorithms trained on historical procurement data often inadvertently perpetuate past systemic inequities and vendor concentration, favoring established contractors over smaller, innovative enterprises. Furthermore, the lack of transparency in proprietary scoring models hinders meaningful administrative oversight and public accountability. To ensure equitable public spending, administrative frameworks must move beyond mere technological adoption and establish robust regulatory checks. This includes mandatory algorithmic audits, clear human-in-the-loop oversight mechanisms, and transparent data disclosure protocols for all public tenders. Technological modernization in public administration cannot be treated as a self-regulating panacea; rather, it requires active institutional stewardship to align automated efficiency with fundamental principles of fairness, competitiveness, and democratic accountability.
Based on the passage, which of the following statements correctly capture the core central themes expressed by the author?
- Automated procurement tools require continuous regulatory oversight and institutional stewardship to ensure fairness and prevent historical bias.Answer
- Technological efficiency in public spending must be balanced with transparency, human oversight, and democratic accountability.Answer
- CProprietary scoring models have successfully eliminated vendor concentration and administrative overhead across public sector tenders.
- DAutomated decision-making systems should be completely prohibited from public administration due to unavoidable ethical risks.