Describe the relevance of the following in the context of civil services: (a) Ethical governance (b) Probity in public life

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Points to Remember:

  • Ethical Governance: Focuses on the moral principles guiding government actions and decisions. It emphasizes accountability, transparency, and fairness.
  • Probity in Public Life: Highlights integrity, honesty, and incorruptibility in the conduct of public officials. It aims to prevent corruption and maintain public trust.
  • Civil Services: Refers to the permanent bureaucracy responsible for implementing government policies and providing public services.

Introduction:

The Indian Civil Services (ICS), now the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and other allied services, form the backbone of India’s governance structure. Their effectiveness hinges on upholding the highest ethical standards. Ethical governance and probity in public life are not merely desirable attributes but fundamental requirements for a just and efficient civil service. The absence of these principles leads to corruption, inefficiency, and erosion of public trust, undermining the very foundation of a democratic society. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) report extensively highlighted the need for strengthening ethical governance and probity within the civil services.

Body:

(a) Ethical Governance in Civil Services:

  • Meaning and Scope: Ethical governance in the context of civil services encompasses a wide range of principles, including transparency in decision-making, accountability to the public, impartiality in the application of laws, and fairness in the allocation of resources. It also involves adherence to the rule of law, respect for human rights, and commitment to public service.
  • Relevance: Ethical governance fosters public trust, improves service delivery, and promotes good governance. It ensures that government actions are aligned with the values and aspirations of the citizens. A transparent and accountable civil service is less susceptible to corruption and more responsive to the needs of the people.
  • Challenges: Bureaucratic inertia, political interference, and lack of effective oversight mechanisms can hinder ethical governance. The pressure to meet targets can sometimes lead to compromises on ethical principles. Examples include instances of biased decision-making, favoritism, and nepotism.
  • Examples: The implementation of the Right to Information Act (RTI) has significantly enhanced transparency and accountability in governance. Initiatives like e-governance aim to minimize human intervention and reduce opportunities for corruption.

(b) Probity in Public Life in Civil Services:

  • Meaning and Scope: Probity in public life refers to the integrity, honesty, and incorruptibility of public officials. It demands that civil servants act with the highest ethical standards, avoiding any conflict of interest and rejecting any form of bribery or undue influence.
  • Relevance: Probity is crucial for maintaining public trust and confidence in the government. It ensures that public resources are used efficiently and effectively for the benefit of the citizens. A civil service known for its probity attracts talented individuals and fosters a culture of excellence.
  • Challenges: Low salaries, lack of opportunities for advancement, and societal pressures can tempt civil servants to engage in corrupt practices. Weak enforcement of anti-corruption laws and a lack of whistleblower protection can also contribute to the problem.
  • Examples: The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) plays a vital role in combating corruption within the civil services. The establishment of Lokayuktas and Lokpal at state and national levels provides mechanisms for investigating allegations of corruption against public officials. Supreme Court judgments on issues of corruption have strengthened the legal framework for maintaining probity.

Conclusion:

Ethical governance and probity in public life are indispensable for a well-functioning civil service. Strengthening these principles requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes:

  • Strengthening institutional mechanisms: Enhancing the effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies, improving whistleblower protection, and promoting transparency through technology.
  • Promoting ethical leadership: Training and development programs for civil servants should emphasize ethical decision-making and leadership.
  • Enhancing public awareness: Educating citizens about their rights and responsibilities in holding the government accountable.
  • Improving remuneration and working conditions: Attracting and retaining talented individuals in the civil service requires competitive salaries and a supportive work environment.

By fostering a culture of ethical governance and probity, India can build a more efficient, accountable, and trustworthy civil service, contributing significantly to its holistic development and upholding constitutional values. This will ultimately lead to a stronger and more prosperous nation.

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