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UPSC MainsGENERAL-STUDIES-PAPER-IV20225 Marks30 Words
Q13.

Probity in public life

How to Approach

This question requires a conceptual understanding of probity and its importance in public life. The answer should define probity, discuss its components (integrity, honesty, transparency), highlight the challenges to probity in the Indian context, and suggest measures to promote it. A structure focusing on definition, importance, challenges, and remedies will be effective. Referencing relevant committees and reports will add value.

Model Answer

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Introduction

Probity, derived from the Latin ‘probitas’ meaning ‘uprightness’, refers to strong moral principles and honesty in public life. It is the bedrock of a responsive and accountable governance system. In a democracy, public servants are entrusted with immense power and resources, making probity not merely a desirable trait but an ethical imperative. Recent instances of corruption and lack of transparency in various sectors underscore the urgent need to reinforce probity in public administration and ensure public trust in institutions.

Understanding Probity

Probity encompasses several key elements:

  • Integrity: Adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character.
  • Honesty: Truthfulness and sincerity in conduct and speech.
  • Transparency: Openness and accessibility of information regarding government actions and decisions.
  • Accountability: Being answerable for one’s actions and decisions.
  • Impartiality: Fairness and objectivity in decision-making, free from bias.

Importance of Probity in Public Life

Probity is crucial for several reasons:

  • Good Governance: It fosters efficient, effective, and equitable governance.
  • Public Trust: It builds confidence in public institutions and enhances citizen participation.
  • Economic Development: It attracts investment, promotes economic growth, and reduces corruption-related losses.
  • Social Justice: It ensures fair and equal access to public services and opportunities.
  • Rule of Law: It strengthens the rule of law and upholds constitutional values.

Challenges to Probity in India

Several factors impede probity in public life in India:

  • Corruption: Widespread corruption at various levels of government. According to Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index 2023, India ranked 93rd out of 180 countries.
  • Lack of Transparency: Limited access to information and opaque decision-making processes.
  • Political Interference: Undue influence of politicians in administrative matters.
  • Weak Enforcement Mechanisms: Ineffective implementation of anti-corruption laws and inadequate penalties.
  • Nepotism and Favoritism: Preferential treatment based on personal relationships rather than merit.
  • Criminalization of Politics: The presence of individuals with criminal backgrounds in politics.
  • Colonial Legacy: A historical legacy of bureaucratic apathy and corruption.

Measures to Promote Probity

Strengthening probity requires a multi-pronged approach:

  • Strengthening Institutions: Empowering anti-corruption agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).
  • Legislative Reforms: Enacting and implementing robust anti-corruption laws, such as the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (amended in 2018).
  • Promoting Transparency: Implementing the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 effectively and proactively disclosing information.
  • E-Governance: Utilizing technology to streamline processes, reduce human interaction, and enhance transparency. The Digital India initiative is a step in this direction.
  • Ethical Training: Providing regular ethics training to public servants. The Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) plays a crucial role in this regard.
  • Citizen Empowerment: Encouraging citizen participation in governance and providing mechanisms for grievance redressal.
  • Whistleblower Protection: Strengthening the Whistleblower Protection Act, 2014 to protect individuals who report corruption.
  • Judicial Reforms: Expediting the disposal of corruption cases and ensuring swift and impartial justice.

The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2008) emphasized the need for a ‘probity pact’ between the government and citizens to promote ethical governance.

Conclusion

Probity in public life is not merely a moral obligation but a fundamental requirement for a thriving democracy and a prosperous nation. Addressing the challenges to probity requires sustained efforts from all stakeholders – government, civil society, and citizens. By strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and fostering a culture of ethics, India can build a governance system that is accountable, responsive, and worthy of public trust. A continuous focus on ethical conduct and integrity is essential for realizing the nation’s full potential.

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.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Accountability
The obligation of an individual or organization to be answerable for its actions and decisions, and to accept responsibility for the consequences.
Transparency
The principle of openness and accessibility of information regarding government actions, decisions, and policies, allowing citizens to scrutinize and hold public officials accountable.

Key Statistics

India’s rank in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2023 is 93 out of 180 countries.

Source: Transparency International

As of 2023, over 6.3 million RTI applications were filed across India since the Act’s inception in 2005.

Source: Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Government of India (knowledge cutoff 2023)

Examples

The 2G Spectrum Scam

The 2G spectrum allocation scam (2010) exposed widespread corruption and irregularities in the allocation of 2G licenses, causing significant financial losses to the exchequer and eroding public trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the role of the CVC?

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the apex body responsible for overseeing vigilance activities in the Central Government. It investigates allegations of corruption, advises on vigilance matters, and promotes integrity in public administration.

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