Answer:

Introduction

Tolerance is the acceptance and appreciation of diversity, fostering an inclusive environment for all societal groups. Compassion involves empathy and a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by others, particularly the vulnerable. Both are pivotal in realizing SDGs 2030, a collection of 17 objectives covering Economic growth, Social inclusion and Environmental protection. 

Body 

Tolerance and compassion are essential values for achieving the SDGs due to the following reasons

Tolerance:

• SDG 4 (Quality Education): Tolerance in educational settings promotes a learning environment where all students, regardless of background, can thrive. The Right to Education Act in India exemplifies this by ensuring inclusive education.
• SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Tolerance towards different genders and sexual orientations is crucial for achieving gender equality. Eg: Initiatives like the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign in India foster tolerance and support for women’s rights.
• SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Tolerance promotes social inclusion and equality, essential for reducing inequalities. Acceptance of diverse groups ensures equitable opportunities for all, as seen in India’s reservation policies for marginalized communities.
• SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Tolerance ensures inclusive urban development, accommodating diverse needs. Eg: Smart Cities Mission in India aims to create inclusive urban spaces that cater to all citizens.

Compassion:

• SDG 1 (No Poverty): Compassion drives efforts to alleviate poverty. Programs like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) demonstrate compassion by providing employment to reduce poverty.
• SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Compassionate policies ensure food security for all. The Mid-Day Meal Scheme in India, aimed at providing meals to schoolchildren, is an example of a compassionate approach to combating hunger.
• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Compassion is vital for healthcare policies that address the needs of the vulnerable. Eg: Ayushman Bharat scheme providing health insurance to the poor reflects compassion in healthcare.
• SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Compassion in labor policies ensures fair treatment of workers. Eg: implementation of minimum wage laws in India is a compassionate approach to ensuring decent work conditions.

Civil servants can develop and demonstrate tolerance and compassion towards the weaker sections of society through various means

• Empathy Workshops: Participating in workshops that focus on developing empathy and understanding diverse perspectives. For instance, workshops organized by NGOs like SEWA (Self-Employed Women’s Association) can provide insights into the lives of marginalized communities.
• Field Visits and Immersion Programs: Spending time in underprivileged areas to understand their challenges firsthand. Eg: IAS officer Awanish Sharan’s initiatives in Chhattisgarh, including spending time in tribal areas, have helped in developing targeted welfare programs.
• Cultural Competence Training: Gaining knowledge about different cultures and traditions to serve diverse populations better. Eg: Training programs like those conducted by the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) help in this regard. 
• Inclusive Policy Formulation: Involving representatives from weaker sections in policy-making ensures their needs are addressed. Eg: formulation of the Forest Rights Act in India involved inputs from tribal communities, demonstrating inclusive and compassionate policy-making.
• Direct Welfare Initiatives: Launching or supporting initiatives that directly benefit disadvantaged groups. Eg: ‘Hunger-Free City’ initiative by IAS officer Manivannan in Bengaluru aimed at providing meals to the homeless is an example.
• Equitable Service Delivery: Ensuring that government services are delivered fairly to all sections of society. Eg: implementation of the National Food Security Act by civil servants across India is a case in point.
• Public Advocacy: Advocating for the rights and welfare of marginalized groups. Eg: efforts of civil servants like Harsh Mander, who has been vocal about issues affecting the underprivileged, highlight the role of advocacy in public service.

Conclusion 

Thus, cultivating tolerance and compassion is fundamental for civil servants in actualizing the SDGs. By developing these virtues, they can create inclusive, empathetic, and equitable policies, thus driving India towards its developmental objectives with a humane and ethical approach building a society that is not only prosperous but also just and compassionate.

DOWNLOAD PDF