Answer:

Introduction             

Ethics encompasses the moral principles guiding individual and collective behavior, emphasizing values like integrity, fairness, and responsibility. Public governance implies the system and process employed by public institutions to manage resources, make decisions, and provide services, underpinned by principles of transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to people.

Body 

Ethics and public governance are deeply intertwined in the following ways:

• Transparency in Decision-Making: Ethics in Public Governance mandates openness in government processes. For instance, the Right to Information Act in India embodies this principle, allowing citizens to request information from public authorities, thereby fostering transparency and accountability.
• Public Trust and Participation: Ethics in governance foster public trust, crucial for effective administration. The Kerala State’s response to the 2018 floods, involving transparent and inclusive disaster management, strengthened public trust and community participation.
• Ethical Policymaking: Public governance involves formulating policies that reflect moral and ethical values. India’s National Education Policy 2020, focusing on accessibility and equity, is an example of ethical considerations shaping policy.
• Responsibility Towards Environment: Ethics in public governance promotes responsibility towards the environment. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, aimed at cleanliness and environmental conservation, reflects an ethical commitment to sustainability and public health.
• Professionalism in Bureaucracy: Ethics in public governance ensures professionalism and adherence to a code of conduct in the bureaucracy. The example of T.N. Seshan, former Chief Election Commissioner of India, illustrates the impact of ethical professionalism in strengthening electoral processes and democracy.

Role of ethical practices in enhancing the effectiveness and accountability of public administration 

• Promoting Fairness in Public Service Delivery: Ethical practices ensure fair and unbiased service delivery in public administration. Eg: the implementation of the JAM (Jan Dhani – Aadhaar – Mobile) trinity system for equitable distribution of social benefits, demonstrates how ethical practices can enhance fairness and inclusivity in service delivery.
• Strengthening Accountability Mechanisms: Ethical practices strengthen accountability in public governance. The establishment of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) in India ensures accountability and proper utilization of public funds, demonstrating the effectiveness of ethical oversight.
• Combating Corruption Effectively: Ethical practices are vital in combating corruption. The establishment of the Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, aimed at addressing corruption at higher levels of government, illustrate the commitment to ethical governance.
• Promoting Social Justice and Equity: Ethical practices in public administration are instrumental in promoting social justice. The implementation of schemes like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) illustrates how ethical practices can address social inequities.
• Safeguarding Public Interest: Ethical practices ensure that actions and policies of public administration are aligned with the public interest. The environmental regulations enforced by bodies like the National Green Tribunal in India safeguard public interest by ensuring sustainable development.

Conclusion 

Overall, the symbiotic relationship between ethics and public governance is pivotal for a robust, transparent, and accountable administration. Embedding ethical practices in governance enhances effectiveness, builds public trust, and ensures equitable outcomes, paving the way for a more just, inclusive, and prosperous society. 

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