Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q.4. Identify eight essential values that are needed to be an effective public servant. Describe the ways and means to prevent non-ethical behavior in the public servants. (150 words,10 marks)
Introduction
The 2nd ARC rightly observed that while rules dictate actions, values inspire integrity; they are the moral compass of effective public service and democratic governance.
Body
Eight Essential Values for Public Servants
Integrity: Remaining honest and incorruptible preserves public trust in institutions. Example: Raju Narayanaswamy (IAS) exposed corruption despite facing repeated transfers.
2. Empathy: Understanding citizens’ struggles leads to inclusive and humane policies. Example: Sreedhanya Suresh (IAS), from a tribal background, champions social equity.
3. Accountability: Owning decisions enhances transparency and institutional reliability. Example: P. Narahari (IAS) resolved grievances directly via social media.
4. Impartiality: Acting without prejudice upholds fairness and institutional neutrality. Example: Prakash Singh (IPS) advocated police reforms free from political bias.
5. Selflessness: Serving people selflessly ensures equitable development. Example: S. R. Sankaran (IAS) worked tirelessly for Dalits and tribal welfare.
6. Transparency: Visible procedures reduce scope for arbitrary or corrupt practices. Example: Tukaram Mundhe (IAS) made civic finances open to public scrutiny.
7. Compassion: Administering with humanity reinforces the dignity of all stakeholders. Example: Harsh Mander left IAS to serve the homeless and marginalised.
8. Moral Courage: Taking ethical stands despite pressure safeguards public interest. Example: Rajni Sekhri Sibal (IAS) exposed the Haryana recruitment scam.
Ways to Prevent Non-Ethical Behaviour
- Ethical codes and training: Formal guidelines and case-based modules shape moral reasoning.
Example: LBSNAA uses real-life dilemmas to train officers in ethics.
- Whistleblower protection: Legal safeguards encourage reporting without fear of reprisal. Example: Satyendra Dube (IES) exposed NHAI corruption despite threats to life. 3. Transparent HR processes: Merit-based recruitment and promotion block nepotism and bias.
Example: UPSC’s anonymised evaluation upholds fairness in civil service selection. 4. Media and public scrutiny: External vigilance ensures greater accountability and discipline. Example: Parveen Kaswan (IFS) uses social media for public engagement. 5. Institutional oversight: Lokpal and Lokayuktas bring legal checks on public functionaries. Example: Karnataka Lokayukta exposed major mining scams and corruption. 6. Citizen charters and standards: Setting benchmarks boosts service delivery and trust. Example: e-Mitra under Sevottam in Rajasthan improved efficiency and feedback.
Conclusion
A values-driven bureaucracy, bound by ethics and accountability, transforms governance into justice. Public trust thrives when moral conviction backs public action—making civil service a guardian of democratic ideals.
