Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 3. How does bureaucratic work culture impact efficiency and accountability in public service delivery? Discuss with examples and suggest measures for improvement. (150 words, 10 marks)
Introduction
Bureaucratic work culture encompasses shared norms, routines, and attitudes within civil services (Weberian Model). It significantly shapes administrative behavior and, in turn, influences efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in public service delivery across various levels of governance.
Body
Positive Aspects of Bureaucratic Work Culture
- Commitment to Rule of Law: Upholds constitutional values and procedural integrity in decision-making.
Example: Strict adherence to reservation norms in recruitment ensures social justice.
- Institutional Memory and Continuity: Helps maintain long-term consistency in policy implementation across governments.
Example: National programs like Mid-Day Meal and PDS continue efficiently despite political changes. - Impartiality and Political Neutrality: Enables objective policy execution, independent of political pressure.
Example: Conduct of elections by civil servants under ECI reflects non-partisan functioning.
Negative Impacts on Efficiency and Accountability
- Red-Tapism and Delay Orientation: Excessive emphasis on procedure slows down service delivery.
Example: Delay in releasing disaster relief funds due to file movement across departments. - Lack of Innovation and Risk Aversion: Fear of audits and punitive action discourages experimentation.
Example: Hesitancy in adopting drone technology for agricultural surveys in some states. - Weak Performance Management: Promotions often based on seniority, not on measurable outcomes.
Example: Limited use of performance apraissal in influencing postings or training needs. - Siloed Working and Poor Coordination: Departments operate in isolation, duplicating or overlooking tasks.
Example: Overlap between health and nutrition schemes leads to gaps in ICDS implementation.
Measures for Improvement
- Promote Results-Oriented Culture: Introduce clear KPIs, adopt PRAGATI dashboard for real-time monitoring.
2nd ARC: Recommended shift from rule-bound to result-oriented approach. - Reform HR Practices: Enable lateral entry, link promotions to performance, and strengthen APAR system.
-For instance, NITI Aayog’s Young Professionals program brings in domain expertise. - Capacity Building and Ethical Training: Regular sensitization at LBSNAA and ATIs on leadership and innovation.
Example: Ethics modules and case-based learning as part of iGOTKarmayogi platform. - Encourage Transparency and Accountability: Strengthen use of RTI, e-office, and CPGRAMS to reduce discretion.
Example: Rajasthan’s Jan Soochna Portal enables proactive information disclosure.
Conclusion
Bureaucratic culture deeply influences governance outcomes. While its strengths ensure stability, its flaws demand urgent reform. Transforming this culture is essential for building a citizen-centric, efficient, and accountable public service system in India.
