Discipline generally implies following the order and subordination. However, it may be counter-productive for the organisation. Discuss.

Points to Remember: Discipline’s dual nature: order & subordination vs. counter-productivity. Factors influencing discipline’s effectiveness. Balancing discipline with creativity and autonomy. Potential negative consequences of excessive discipline. Strategies for fostering positive discipline. Introduction: Discipline, in an organizational context, typically refers to a system of rules and regulations designed to ensure order, obedience, and adherence to … Read more

State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance.

Points to Remember: Three basic universal values in civil services: Integrity, Impartiality, and Accountability. Importance of each value in ensuring effective and ethical governance. Consequences of lacking these values. Introduction: Civil services form the backbone of any effective and just governance system. The conduct and actions of civil servants directly impact the lives of citizens. … Read more

What do you understand by the terms ‘governance’, ‘good governance’ and‘ethical governance’?

Points to Remember: Governance encompasses the processes and structures through which societies are managed. Good governance emphasizes effectiveness, accountability, and transparency. Ethical governance integrates moral principles and values into governance processes. Introduction: The terms “governance,” “good governance,” and “ethical governance” are increasingly crucial in discussions about effective and just societies. Governance, in its broadest sense, … Read more

Discuss the Public Services Code as recommended by the 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission.

Points to Remember: Key features of the Public Services Code as envisioned by the 2nd ARC. Emphasis on ethics, accountability, and efficiency. Mechanisms for implementation and enforcement. Challenges in implementation and potential solutions. Introduction: The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2nd ARC), established in 2005, played a crucial role in recommending reforms for the Indian administrative … Read more

One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real life example.

Points to Remember: Integrity: Adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. Compromise: To settle a dispute by mutual concession; to endanger (something valued) by careless or unwise action. Refusal to be compromised: Unyielding adherence to one’s principles, even under pressure. Introduction: Integrity is a cornerstone of ethical conduct, representing the unwavering … Read more

Examine the relevance of the following in the context of civil service: (a) Transparency (b) Accountability (c) Fairness and justice (d) Courage of conviction (e) Spirit of service

Points to Remember: Transparency: Openness and accessibility of information. Accountability: Answerability for actions and decisions. Fairness and Justice: Impartial treatment and equitable application of laws. Courage of Conviction: Willingness to act on one’s beliefs, even in the face of opposition. Spirit of Service: Dedication to public good and selfless commitment. Introduction: The Indian Civil Service … Read more

Conflict of interest in the public sector arises when(a) official duties,(b) public interest, and(c) personal interest are taking priority one above the other. How can this conflict in administration be resolved? Describe with an example.

Points to Remember: Conflict of interest arises when an individual’s personal interests clash with their official duties and the public interest. Transparency, robust ethics codes, and effective enforcement mechanisms are crucial for resolving conflicts of interest. Independent oversight bodies and whistleblower protection are vital for accountability. Introduction: Conflict of interest in the public sector is … Read more

Public servants are likely to confront with the issues of “Conflict of Interest”. What do you understand by the term “Conflict of Interest”and how does it manifest in the decision making by public servants? If faced with the conflict of interest situation how would you resolve it? Explain with the help of examples.

Points to Remember: Definition and understanding of Conflict of Interest (COI). Manifestations of COI in public servant decision-making. Mechanisms for resolving COI situations. Examples illustrating COI and its resolution. Introduction: Conflict of Interest (COI) is a situation in which a public servant’s personal interests, or the interests of those close to them, could improperly influence … Read more

Why should impartiality and non-partisanship be considered as foundational values in public services, especially in the present-day socio-political context? Illustrate your answer with examples.

Points to Remember: Impartiality: Treating all individuals and groups equally, without bias or favoritism. Non-partisanship: Remaining neutral and objective, avoiding alignment with any political party or ideology. Public service: The provision of services to the public by government employees and agencies. Socio-political context: The current social and political environment, characterized by increasing polarization and distrust … Read more