Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q.4. Dedication to public service goes beyond duty; it demands personal sacrifice and initiative. Evaluate this statement by citing examples of civil servants who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to public service. (150 words, 10 marks)
Introduction
Dedication to public service means selfless commitment to the welfare of citizens. It goes beyond routine duty, often requiring personal sacrifice, initiative, and courage—traits seen in civil servants who inspire through exceptional service.
Body
Dedication to Public Service Goes Beyond Duty
- “Public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the nation.” — Margaret Chase Smith
- True dedication involves working beyond office hours to address urgent public needs.
- It requires taking bold initiatives to solve local problems without waiting for orders.
- Personal sacrifice, including safety and comfort, is often necessary to serve people effectively. Example: IAS Sandeep Nanduri led anti-manual scavenging efforts in Thoothukudi through active ground-level monitoring.
Exceptional Traits Demonstrating Dedication in Public Service
- Personal Sacrifice: Officers put the welfare of the people above personal comfort and risk. Example: Iqbal Singh Chahal’s tireless COVID-19 response in Mumbai under immense personal and professional pressure.
- Field Engagement: Direct involvement with communities bridges gaps between policy and ground realities. Example: IAS Shubham Gupta mentored UPSC aspirants from underprivileged backgrounds by engaging with them directly.
- Innovative Solutions: Officers devise creative approaches to solve persistent public service challenges. Example: Rohini Bhajibhakare initiated a behavioural approach to drive sanitation change in her district.
- Crisis Leadership: Leadership during emergencies highlights extraordinary dedication and resilience. Example: Smita Sabharwal spearheaded maternal health initiatives in Medak, reducing mortality rates.
- Ethical Stand: Standing firm against corruption and external pressures demonstrates moral courage. Example: Kiran Bedi reformed the Tihar prison system by introducing transparency and accountability.
- Voluntary Service: Going beyond job descriptions reflects genuine commitment to the public good. Example: Durga Shakti Nagpal led a bold crackdown on illegal sand mining despite political backlash.
- Empathy-Driven Actions: Addressing public hardship with sensitivity improves governance outcomes. Example: Renu Raj ensured food and essentials reached flood victims during Kerala’s disaster.
- Inspiring Others: Leading by example motivates peers and the public to act with integrity. Example: IPS Ankit Goyal’s community policing initiatives boosted local participation and trust.
Conclusion
Dedication in public service is not just about fulfilling responsibilities but about creating lasting impact. Officers who show initiative, sacrifice, and empathy uphold the noblest ideals of governance.
