Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Public service, at its core, is a trust vested by citizens in individuals to administer the state’s affairs with integrity and efficiency. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2008) emphasized the need for a ‘value-driven’ civil service. An effective public servant must not only possess technical competence but also a strong ethical foundation. This answer will identify ten such essential values and outline ways to prevent non-ethical behaviour within the public service, ensuring accountability and public trust.
Ten Essential Values for an Effective Public Servant
An effective public servant should embody the following values:
- Integrity: Honesty, trustworthiness, and adherence to moral principles.
- Impartiality: Fairness and objectivity in decision-making, free from bias.
- Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and decisions.
- Transparency: Openness and accessibility of information.
- Dedication to Public Service: Commitment to serving the public interest.
- Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, particularly citizens.
- Courage: Standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
- Efficiency & Effectiveness: Utilizing resources optimally to achieve desired outcomes.
- Rule of Law: Respecting and upholding the constitution and legal framework.
- Professionalism: Maintaining a high standard of conduct and competence.
Preventing Non-Ethical Behaviour in Public Servants
I. Legislative & Institutional Mechanisms
Several legislative and institutional mechanisms can deter unethical conduct:
- Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988: Provides a legal framework to address corruption and bribery.
- Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013: Establishes independent bodies to investigate allegations of corruption against public functionaries.
- Right to Information Act, 2005: Promotes transparency and accountability by granting citizens access to information held by public authorities.
- Central Vigilance Commission (CVC): An independent body responsible for overseeing the investigation of corruption cases.
- State Vigilance Commissions: Similar to CVC, operating at the state level.
II. Administrative Measures
Administrative measures play a crucial role in fostering ethical conduct:
- Regular Audits & Inspections: To detect and prevent irregularities.
- Rotation of Posts: To minimize opportunities for corruption and collusion.
- Streamlined Processes: Reducing discretion and opportunities for rent-seeking.
- Whistleblower Protection: Encouraging individuals to report wrongdoing without fear of reprisal (Whistleblowers Protection Act, 2014).
- Asset Declaration: Requiring public servants to declare their assets periodically.
III. Ethical Training & Capacity Building
Investing in ethical training is paramount:
- Mandatory Ethics Courses: At all stages of a public servant’s career, including induction training at institutions like Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA).
- Case Study Based Learning: Analyzing real-world ethical dilemmas to develop critical thinking and decision-making skills.
- Mentorship Programs: Pairing experienced and ethical officers with junior colleagues.
- Promoting a Culture of Integrity: Leadership must champion ethical values and set a positive example.
IV. Societal & Individual Responsibility
Preventing unethical behaviour requires a collective effort:
- Strengthening Civil Society: Empowering citizens to demand accountability from public servants.
- Media Vigilance: Investigative journalism plays a vital role in exposing corruption and wrongdoing.
- Ethical Leadership: Political leaders must demonstrate integrity and commitment to ethical governance.
- Individual Moral Compass: Public servants must cultivate a strong personal ethical code.
Conclusion
Cultivating a robust ethical framework within the public service is essential for good governance and sustainable development. A multi-faceted approach encompassing strong legal mechanisms, administrative reforms, comprehensive ethical training, and societal engagement is crucial. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation are necessary to address emerging challenges and ensure that public servants remain committed to serving the nation with integrity and dedication.
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.