Q.
In the context of civil service, discuss the significance of the following: (i) public trust, (ii) objectivity, (iii) strength of character, (iv) empathy, and (v) selflessness. (10 Marks, 150 words) additional
December 30, 2023
GS Paper IV
Ans:
- Public Trust:
- Public trust is crucial for civil servants as it establishes the credibility and legitimacy of the government.
- It ensures that citizens have confidence in the integrity and competence of the civil service, leading to effective governance and public cooperation.
- For Example: Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Minister of Health and Family Welfare during COVID-19, gained public trust through transparent communication and effective measures.
- Objectivity:
- Objectivity is vital for civil servants as it ensures that decisions and actions are based on facts, evidence, and unbiased analysis rather than personal biases or external influences.
- It promotes fairness, transparency, and accountability in decision-making processes, leading to better outcomes for the public.
- For Example: T.N. Seshan, former Chief Election Commissioner, implemented electoral reforms impartially, ensuring fairness in the electoral process.
- Strength of Character:
- Strength of character refers to the moral and ethical fortitude of civil servants to uphold their values and principles in the face of challenges and temptations.
- It involves displaying honesty, integrity, and courage in fulfilling their responsibilities, even in difficult circumstances, which fosters public trust and confidence.
- For Example: Kiran Bedi, as the first female IPS officer, displayed unwavering strength of character by introducing reforms in Tihar Jail and implementing community policing initiatives.
- Empathy:
- Empathy is essential for civil servants as it allows them to understand and connect with the experiences, needs, and concerns of the public they serve.
- It enables civil servants to make decisions and design policies that genuinely address the welfare and well-being of individuals and communities, leading to more inclusive and responsive governance.
- For Example: Dr. Ayyaj Tamboli’s (IAS) efforts revitalized a defunct district hospital in the Bijapur district of Maoist-affected area.
- Selflessness:
- Selflessness is the willingness to prioritize the interests and needs of the public over personal gain or self-interest.
- Civil servants are entrusted with serving the public, and selflessness ensures that their actions are driven by the greater good rather than personal motives. It promotes fairness, impartiality, and the effective utilization of public resources.
- For Example: Sonam Wangchuk, an education reformist, selflessly works to provide quality education to children in remote areas of Ladakh through his organization, SECMOL.
