Hi aspirants, welcome to “upscpedia,” your source for insightful guidance on UPSC exam-relevant topics. In today’s blog, we delve into ethics and governance, addressing questions from a civil servant’s perspective. We explore concepts like good governance, e-Governance’s impact on service delivery, and the delicate balance between transparency and national security. With our best insights and data, we’re here to equip you for success in the UPSC exams. Let’s navigate the world of ethical governance together!
Q.) What do you understand by ‘probity’ in public life? What are the difficulties in practicing it in the present times? How can these difficulties be overcome? (UPSC ETHICS 2014, 10 markers).
Ans.) “Probity” in public life refers to the ethical quality of integrity, honesty, and adherence to high moral principles while performing official duties. In the present times, practicing probity can be challenging due to factors such as increased political polarization, pressures of social media, and the lure of personal gains. Politicians and public servants might face temptations to compromise their principles for short-term benefits or to appease their constituents.
Overcoming these difficulties requires a multi-pronged approach. First, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability through robust laws and regulations can act as a deterrent against unethical behavior. Second, providing comprehensive ethical training and guidance to officials can strengthen their moral compass. Third, enhancing public awareness about the importance of probity and its impact on society can generate public pressure for ethical behavior. Lastly, institutionalizing rewards and recognition for those who exhibit unwavering probity can incentivize others to follow suit. By addressing these challenges, a conducive environment for practicing probity can be established in public life.
Q.) Today we find that despite various measures like prescribing codes of conduct, setting up vigilance cells/commissions, RTI, active media, and strengthening legal mechanisms, corrupt practices are not coming under control. (a) Evaluate the effectiveness of these measures with justifications. (b) Suggest more effective strategies to tackle this menace. (UPSC ETHICS 2015, 10 markers).
Ans.) (a) The measures mentioned have contributed to curbing corrupt practices to some extent, but their effectiveness has limitations. Codes of conduct establish guidelines, but enforcement can be inconsistent. Vigilance cells/commissions enhance oversight, yet delays in proceedings can reduce deterrence. While the RTI promotes transparency, it might not prevent corruption proactively. The media exposes cases, but sensationalism can hinder unbiased reporting. Legal mechanisms offer punishment, but lengthy legal processes and loopholes undermine their efficacy.
(b) More effective strategies involve a holistic approach. Strengthening internal accountability mechanisms within institutions can prevent corruption at its roots. Encouraging a culture of whistleblowing with protection can expose wrongdoings. Technology-driven solutions like e-governance minimize human interface and corruption opportunities. Promoting ethics education from school bells cultivates values early. Swift, time-bound trials and fast-tracking corruption cases reduce impunity. Introducing reward-based systems for ethical behavior can motivate officials. Collaboration between government, civil society, and media in anti-corruption initiatives enhances scrutiny. Ultimately, political will and societal awareness are pivotal in ensuring the success of these strategies in tackling corruption effectively.
Q.) Some recent developments such as the introduction of the RTI Act, media and judicial activism, etc., are proving helpful in bringing about greater transparency and accountability in the functioning of the government. However, it is also being observed that at times the mechanisms are misused. Another negative effect is that the officers are now afraid to take prompt decisions. Analyze this situation in detail and suggest how these negative impacts can be minimized. (UPSC ETHICS 2015, 10 markers).
Ans.) Recent developments like the RTI Act, media activism, and judicial intervention have indeed increased transparency and accountability in governance. However, there are concerns about their misuse and unintended consequences. Some individuals misuse these mechanisms to settle personal scores or hamper functioning. Additionally, the fear of potential scrutiny might lead officers to avoid prompt decisions to evade accusations.
To mitigate these negative impacts, a balanced approach is necessary. Stricter scrutiny of RTI requests to prevent misuse and ensure that the media maintains objectivity can address unwarranted allegations. Improving the RTI Act’s provisions to protect sensitive information while maintaining transparency can strike a better balance. Training officials to make timely decisions based on sound judgment, along with clear guidelines on accountability, can alleviate their fear. Implementing fast-track legal processes for unjustified accusations against officers can reduce apprehensions. Encouraging a culture where accountability is shared collectively rather than individually can foster a more supportive environment for decision-making. Overall, a nuanced understanding and fine-tuning of these mechanisms can minimize their negative effects while preserving their beneficial impact on governance.
Q.) What do you understand by the terms ‘governance’, ‘good governance, and ‘ethical governance’? (UPSC ETHICS 2016, 10 markers).
Ans.) The term “governance” refers to the processes, structures, and institutions through which a government manages and directs the affairs of a society. “Good governance” involves effective, transparent, and accountable management of public resources to achieve sustainable development and meet the needs of citizens. It encompasses principles like participation, rule of law, transparency, responsiveness, equity, and inclusiveness. “Ethical governance” builds upon good governance by emphasizing adherence to moral and ethical principles in decision-making and policy implementation. It involves honesty, integrity, and consideration of the greater societal good. Ethical governance goes beyond legality to ensure that actions are not only legal but also morally justified. From a civil servant’s perspective, practicing ethical governance entails not only efficient administration but also a commitment to upholding ethical values while serving the public interest.
Q.) “The Right to Information Act is not all about citizens’ empowerment alone, it essentially redefines the concept of accountability. Discuss. (UPSC ETHICS 2018, 10 markers).
Ans.) The Right to Information (RTI) Act is not solely about empowering citizens; it fundamentally reshapes the notion of accountability. By granting citizens the right to access information held by public authorities, the Act creates a mechanism for transparency in governance. This transparency, in turn, leads to greater accountability of public officials and institutions. The Act shifts accountability from being solely an internal obligation within the government to a dynamic process where citizens actively participate in holding authorities answerable for their actions. As citizens gain the means to scrutinize decisions and actions, public officials are incentivized to act prudently and responsibly. The RTI Act thus transforms accountability from a passive concept to an active, participatory process that fosters a culture of responsible and transparent governance, where citizens play a pivotal role in ensuring the government’s actions align with public interest and ethical standards.
Q.) What do you understand by probity in governance? Based on your understanding of the term, suggest measures for ensuring probity in government. (UPSC ETHICS 2019, 10 markers).
Ans.) Probity in governance refers to upholding the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct in the functioning of government institutions and public officials. It involves making decisions and performing duties with a sense of moral responsibility, transparency, and accountability.
To ensure probity in government, several measures can be adopted from a civil servant’s standpoint. Implementing stringent codes of conduct and ethical guidelines can set clear expectations for behavior. Fostering a culture of transparency through mechanisms like mandatory asset declarations and financial disclosures prevents unethical practices. Establishing independent oversight bodies, such as anti-corruption commissions, promotes accountability. Regular ethics training and workshops help enhance awareness and sensitivity toward ethical dilemmas. Whistleblower protection mechanisms encourage reporting of wrongdoing without fear of reprisal. Encouraging a strong work ethic and leading by example as civil servants can influence the overall ethical atmosphere. Collaborating with civil society, media, and experts can collectively ensure probity by creating a system of checks and balances. Ultimately, creating an environment where probity is prioritized in every aspect of governance is vital for the overall well-being of society.
Q.) There is a view that the official secrets act is an obstacle to the implementation of the Right to Information Act. Do you agree with the view? Discuss. (UPSC ETHICS 2019, 10 markers).
Ans.) The perception that the Official Secrets Act (OSA) impedes the implementation of the Right to Information (RTI) Act holds some validity. While the OSA aims to safeguard sensitive information, it can inadvertently clash with the transparency goals of the RTI Act. Balancing the two requires careful navigation.
From a civil servant’s standpoint, the key lies in striking a balance between national security concerns and citizens’ right to access information. Ensuring that only genuinely sensitive information is classified under the OSA prevents misuse. Differentiating between legitimate secrecy and information that should be disclosed under the RTI Act is essential. Developing clear guidelines for the classification of information over time can address concerns about historical transparency.
Furthermore, building trust with the public by demonstrating responsible handling of sensitive data can foster understanding. Promoting dialogue between government bodies and the RTI commission can lead to nuanced interpretations of where the two Acts intersect.
In essence, while the OSA serves a crucial purpose, its implementation should align with the spirit of the RTI Act, allowing informed and responsible disclosure while safeguarding national interests.
Q.) Wisdom lies in knowing what to reckon with and what to overlook. An officer engrossed with the periphery, ignoring the core issues before him, is no rare in the bureaucracy. Do you agree that such preoccupation of an administrator leads to the travesty of justice to the cause of effective service delivery and good governance? Critically evaluate. (UPSC ETHICS 2022, 10 markers).
Ans.) Indeed, the notion that an officer consumed by peripheral matters, while neglecting core issues, can compromise effective service delivery and good governance holds substantial merit. Administrators must strike a balance between addressing immediate concerns and focusing on underlying problems.
From a civil servant’s standpoint, overlooking core issues can perpetuate inefficiencies and inhibit long-term improvements. Prioritizing quick fixes might lead to superficial solutions that do not address systemic challenges. Neglecting core issues can result in recurrent problems, eroding public trust and satisfaction.
Conversely, addressing core issues might require more time and effort, but it ensures sustainable solutions. Identifying root causes enables structural reforms that lead to lasting positive outcomes. By striking a balance, administrators can address both immediate concerns and persistent challenges, thereby upholding the principles of justice and effective service delivery while promoting good governance. It is imperative to recognize that peripheral issues are often symptoms, while core issues drive the overall health of an administrative system.
Q.) What do you understand by the term ‘good governance’? How far recent initiatives in terms of e-Governance steps taken by the State have helped the beneficiaries? Discuss with suitable examples. (UPSC ETHICS 2022, 10 markers).
Ans.) “Good governance” entails effective and transparent management of public affairs to ensure equitable and sustainable development, accountability, and citizens’ participation. Recent e-Governance initiatives by the State hold the potential to enhance service delivery and promote good governance in India. For instance, the Digital India program has digitized various services, simplifying processes and reducing corruption. The UIDAI’s Aadhaar project has streamlined identification, benefiting welfare schemes’ implementation. The online portal for income tax filing simplifies tax compliance PM Jan Dhan Yojana used technology for direct benefit transfer, reducing leakages.
However, challenges persist. Digital divide limits access in rural and marginalized areas. Data privacy concerns arise from the collection and handling of personal information. Technical glitches can disrupt services. For example, Aadhaar authentication failures have hindered beneficiaries’ access to services. Ensuring robust cybersecurity is crucial to protect against data breaches.
In conclusion, while e-Governance initiatives have improved service delivery and transparency, addressing challenges is pivotal. A holistic approach, including digital literacy promotion, addressing privacy concerns, and strengthening cybersecurity, can optimize the benefits of e-Governance, contributing to enhanced good governance in India.
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