Probity refers to having strong moral principles and integrity. It is characterized as being incorruptible and adhering to ethical standards such as honesty, transparency, and accountability. Probity implies a steadfast commitment to doing what is right, even in the face of challenges or temptations to engage in dishonest or corrupt practices.
Significance of probity in governance:

• Legitimacy and trust: It assures the public that the actions of the government will be in their best interest, thereby fostering confidence and trust in the system.
• Ethical outcomes and transparency: It ensures that the decisions and actions are guided by ethical principles, which in turn promote transparency, as a person with probity has no difficulty in making the processes and decisions open and accessible to the public.
• Accountability and checks on power: Increased transparency in governance processes helps in holding individuals and institutions accountable for their actions.
• Upholding the Constitutional values: People with probity will uphold the rule of law, protect individual rights, and ensure that governance is in accordance with democratic ideals.
• Reduced politicization of bureaucracy: Probity in governance reduces politicization, thereby addressing nepotism, preventing political partisanship, and minimizing corrupt practices and negative perceptions.

Role of leadership in fosteringprobity and ethical governance in public service:

• Promoting social justice and development: Ethical leaders prioritize fair and equitable practices, ensuring that resources and opportunities are distributed in a just manner. For instance, Gandhiji’s commitment towards non-discrimination and development at the grassroots level fostered ethical governance.
• Fostering transparency and accountability: Transparent leaders ensure that information is readily available to the public, thereby promoting trust and encouraging accountability. For example, focus on electoral reforms for an accountable electoral system by T.N. Seshan, former Chief Election Commissioner, reflected his probity.
• Creating resilient systems: In the face of changing circumstances, leaders develop policies and procedures that are adaptable and responsive, fostering resilience and ability to effectively navigate uncertainties. In this context, Dr. Varghese Kurien’s contribution to the success of milk revolution was a testimony to the integrity he inspired in his team, which led to the creation of a resilient supply chain.
• Success in the face of adversities: Ethical leaders exhibit determination, and quick problem- solving skills, which propel their team to success. For instance, Narayana Murthy achieved success with Infosys despite facing failure in his first venture due to his sheer perseverance and commitment to the culture of ethics.
• Establishing people-centric systems: Ethical leaders create people-centric systems that prioritize public interest over personal or political agendas, which lead to good governance for all. For example, Kiran Bedi, the first female IPS officer of India, known for her commitment to probity and ethical governance, voiced for a number of people-centric reforms reforms in Tihar jail, transparency in police administration, whistleblowing policy, etc.

For procedures, processes, and systems to ensure probity in governance and deliver efficient and equitable socio-economic development, it is essential to ensure effective implementation of laws, rules, and regulations, and create a culture that is free of corruption.