UPPSC MAINS 2023 Paper-4

Points to Remember: The interplay between integrity and knowledge. The dangers of knowledge without ethical grounding. The limitations of integrity without sufficient knowledge. The need for a balanced approach to both. Introduction: The quote “Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, but knowledge without integrity is dangerous and terrible” highlights the crucial interdependence of moral … Read more “Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, but knowledge without integrity is dangerous and terrible.” What do you understand by this statement? Discuss.

Points to Remember: Definition of corruption and non-performance of duty. Different types of corruption. The link between non-performance and corruption. Arguments for and against considering non-performance as corruption. Policy implications and recommendations. Introduction: Corruption, broadly defined, is the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. This encompasses a wide range of actions, from bribery and … Read more “Non-performance of duty by a public servant is a type of corruption.” Do you agree with this statement? Explain logically.

Keywords: Civil servants, resistance to change, persuasion, stakeholders, new policies, initiatives. Required Approach: Analytical, with elements of factual description and practical advice. Points to Remember: Understanding the sources of resistance. Effective communication strategies. Building consensus and collaboration. Managing conflict and negotiation. Measuring and evaluating success. Introduction: Implementing new policies and initiatives within the public sector … Read more Describe the strategies that civil servants can employ to overcome resistance to change and effectively persuade stakeholders to support new policies and initiatives.

Points to Remember: Human action in ethics refers to actions performed by humans with moral significance. Determinants of ethical human action include individual factors (morals, values), social factors (culture, laws), and situational factors (context, consequences). Consequences of ethical (or unethical) human action impact individuals, society, and the environment. Introduction: Human action in ethics refers to … Read more What is meant by Human Action in Ethics? Discuss the determinants and consequences of ethics in Human Action.

Points to Remember: Rajeev’s moral dilemma: Helping a stranger vs. pursuing a government job. The conflict between personal values and career aspirations. The importance of empathy and compassion. The societal implications of bystander apathy. The potential costs and benefits of altruistic actions. Introduction: Rajeev’s actions present a classic ethical dilemma: the conflict between personal values … Read more Rajeev is an idealist. He believes that, “Service to humanity is service to God.” One day, he was going for an interview for a government job. He saw a severely injured person lying on the road who was asking for help. No one came forward to help. Rajeev took the injured person to the hospital and saved his life. But due to this reason, he lost the opportunity to get a government job. Comment on Rajeev’s decision in the light of the above circumstance.

Points to Remember: Honesty and Integrity Objectivity and Impartiality Accountability Openness and Transparency Leadership and Decision-Making Respect for the Law Introduction: Public life encompasses the activities and interactions within a society that relate to the governance, administration, and well-being of its citizens. The principles guiding this sphere are crucial for a functioning and just society. … Read more What are the major principles of public life? Discuss with suitable examples.

Keywords: Social media, public opinion, influence, civil servant, problem-solving. Required Approach: Analytical and solution-oriented. Points to Remember: The dual nature of social media influence (positive and negative). The role of a civil servant in maintaining public trust and order. Strategies for mitigating misinformation and promoting responsible social media use. The importance of transparency, accountability, and … Read more Nowadays, social media is used to influence public opinion either in a positive or negative way. Being a civil servant, how will you solve this issue?

Points to Remember: Public welfare as the primary goal of public policy. Foresight and anticipation of unintended consequences during implementation. Balancing competing interests and values. The role of evidence-based policymaking. Ethical considerations for civil servants. Introduction: The statement emphasizes the dual responsibility of civil servants in policymaking: prioritizing public welfare during formulation and anticipating unforeseen … Read more “While formulating public policies, a civil servant must safely focus on public welfare, and while implementing those policies, he must have foresight to infer possible unexpected consequences.” Do you agree with this statement? Give arguments and justifications for your answer.

Points to Remember: The Bhagavad Gita’s core tenets: Dharma (duty), Karma (action), Bhakti (devotion), and Jnana (knowledge). Applicability of Gita’s principles to ethical dilemmas faced by civil servants. Potential challenges in applying ancient scripture to modern governance. Balancing personal beliefs with professional responsibilities. Introduction: The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture, offers a profound philosophical … Read more Can Bhagavad Gita be an ethical guide for civil servants? Comment.

Points to Remember: Ethical governance prioritizes moral principles and values in all aspects of leadership and decision-making. Transparency, accountability, and fairness are cornerstones of ethical governance. It fosters trust and strengthens institutions. Unethical governance leads to corruption, inefficiency, and social unrest. Promoting ethical governance requires a multi-pronged approach involving legal frameworks, institutional reforms, and societal … Read more What do you understand by Ethical Governance? Elucidate with examples.