Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The term ‘public servant’ denotes an individual employed by the state and paid from public funds, entrusted with carrying out functions of the government. Rooted in the concept of ‘trusteeship’, public service in India draws its legitimacy from the Constitution, particularly Articles 12-14 and 311. The role of a public servant has evolved from a mere executor of policies to a facilitator of good governance, a change driven by increasing citizen expectations, liberalization, and the rise of digital technologies. Understanding this evolving role is crucial for ensuring effective and ethical administration.
Defining ‘Public Servant’ and Constitutional Basis
According to the Indian Constitution, a ‘public servant’ includes any person in the service of the Union or a State, whether appointed or holding office under the Constitution. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of personnel, from the President and Prime Minister to lower-level administrative staff. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2008) emphasized the need for a citizen-centric public service, highlighting the importance of responsiveness, accountability, and transparency.
Core Values and Expected Roles
The expected role of a public servant is multifaceted, built upon a foundation of core values:
- Integrity: Maintaining honesty, impartiality, and ethical conduct in all dealings.
- Accountability: Being answerable for decisions and actions, ensuring transparency and preventing misuse of power.
- Efficiency & Effectiveness: Delivering services promptly and effectively, maximizing the impact of public resources.
- Rule of Law: Upholding the Constitution and laws of the land, ensuring equal treatment under the law.
- Public Welfare: Prioritizing the needs and interests of the public, acting in the public good.
These values translate into specific roles:
- Policy Implementation: Translating government policies into tangible outcomes. For example, effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) required dedicated public servants at the grassroots level.
- Service Delivery: Providing essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure to citizens. The Aadhaar-enabled Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme exemplifies improved service delivery through technology.
- Maintaining Law and Order: Ensuring peace and security, upholding the rule of law.
- Development Administration: Planning and executing development programs to improve socio-economic conditions.
- Crisis Management: Responding effectively to natural disasters and other emergencies.
Contemporary Challenges
Public servants today face several challenges:
- Political Interference: Undue influence from political actors can compromise impartiality and objectivity.
- Corruption: Bribery, nepotism, and abuse of power erode public trust and hinder development. According to the Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index 2023, India ranked 93 out of 180 countries.
- Lack of Capacity: Insufficient training, skills gaps, and outdated technology can limit effectiveness.
- Red Tape & Bureaucracy: Excessive procedures and delays can frustrate citizens and impede progress.
- Erosion of Ethics: Declining ethical standards and a focus on self-interest can undermine public service values.
Evolving Roles in the Digital Age
The digital revolution is transforming the role of public servants. They are now expected to be:
- Tech-Savvy: Proficient in using digital tools and technologies to improve service delivery and decision-making.
- Data-Driven: Utilizing data analytics to identify trends, assess performance, and inform policy decisions.
- Collaborative: Working effectively with other government agencies, private sector organizations, and civil society groups.
- Citizen-Engaged: Actively seeking feedback from citizens and involving them in the policy-making process.
The National Programme on Capacity Building for Civil Servants (NPCCBS) launched in 2023, aims to equip civil servants with the necessary skills for the changing landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a public servant is more than just an employee of the state; they are custodians of public trust and agents of social change. Their role demands unwavering integrity, a commitment to public welfare, and adaptability to evolving challenges. Strengthening ethical frameworks, investing in capacity building, and promoting a culture of accountability are essential for ensuring that public servants effectively serve the nation and uphold the principles of good governance. The future of India’s progress hinges on a robust and ethical public service.
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.