Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Public service, at its core, is a trust vested by citizens in individuals to act in the public interest. The effectiveness and legitimacy of this service are heavily reliant on ethical foundations, prominently featuring principles like integrity, transparency, and accountability. These aren’t merely buzzwords but fundamental pillars of good governance, crucial for fostering public trust and ensuring efficient service delivery. In recent times, with increasing scrutiny of public officials and a growing demand for ethical conduct, understanding these terms is paramount for aspiring and serving civil servants alike.
Integrity
Definition: Integrity refers to the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. In public service, it encompasses adherence to ethical codes, resisting corruption, and maintaining impartiality in decision-making.
Integrity demands that public servants prioritize public interest over personal gain. It involves consistently demonstrating honesty, trustworthiness, and fairness in all actions. A civil servant with integrity will refuse bribes, disclose conflicts of interest, and uphold the law even when it is inconvenient.
Example: The actions of IAS officer Armstrong Pame, who single-handedly constructed a 100km road in Manipur, demonstrate integrity by prioritizing public welfare despite facing bureaucratic hurdles and potential personal risks.
Transparency
Definition: Transparency implies openness, communication, and accountability. In the context of public service, it means making information accessible to the public, allowing scrutiny of government actions, and operating in a manner that is free from hidden agendas.
Transparency is vital for building public trust and preventing corruption. The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, is a landmark legislation promoting transparency in India. It empowers citizens to access information held by public authorities, fostering accountability and enabling informed participation in governance.
Example: The proactive disclosure of information by the Department of Expenditure regarding budget allocations and expenditure details exemplifies transparency in government functioning.
Accountability
Definition: Accountability refers to the obligation to answer for one’s actions. In public service, it means being responsible for decisions and actions, accepting consequences for failures, and being answerable to the public and higher authorities.
Accountability can be achieved through various mechanisms, including audits, performance evaluations, and citizen feedback mechanisms. The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts (1992) enhanced accountability at the local level by devolving powers and responsibilities to Panchayats and Municipalities.
Mechanisms for Accountability:
| Mechanism | Description |
|---|---|
| Social Audit | A process where the community monitors and evaluates the implementation of public programs. |
| Citizen Charters | Documents outlining service standards and grievance redressal mechanisms. |
| CVC/Lokpal | Institutions tasked with investigating corruption and ensuring accountability of public servants. |
Example: The implementation of the Public Services Grievance Redressal System (PGS) allows citizens to lodge complaints online and track their resolution, enhancing accountability within the public service.
Conclusion
Integrity, transparency, and accountability are not isolated concepts but interconnected pillars supporting good governance. Their effective implementation requires a systemic approach, encompassing robust legal frameworks, ethical training for public servants, and active citizen participation. Strengthening these principles is crucial for building a responsive, efficient, and trustworthy public service that truly serves the needs of the nation and fosters sustainable development. Continuous efforts towards promoting these values are essential for realizing the vision of a New India.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.