Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Context Setting: Briefly introduce Mission Karmayogi as an initiative aimed at enhancing the standards of conduct and behavior among civil servants. Thesis Statement: State how this mission empowers civil servants to improve efficiency and service delivery at ...
Model Answer Introduction In public administration, the establishment of a robust Code of Ethics is essential for maintaining integrity, probity, and transparency in governance. While a Code of Conduct sets procedural boundaries, a Code of Ethics provides moral guidance that is crucial for ethical dRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
In public administration, the establishment of a robust Code of Ethics is essential for maintaining integrity, probity, and transparency in governance. While a Code of Conduct sets procedural boundaries, a Code of Ethics provides moral guidance that is crucial for ethical decision-making among public officials.
Key Principles of a Code of Ethics
1. Integration of Universal Ethical Principles
The Code should incorporate Kohlberg’s stages of moral development, focusing on higher levels of moral reasoning, such as justice and fairness. This approach ensures alignment with both local and global ethical standards, promoting a universal understanding of right and wrong.
2. Engagement of Diverse Stakeholders
Involving a wide range of stakeholders during the drafting process reinforces the ethical framework’s inclusivity. For example, public consultations were integral in formulating the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, which ensured that various societal values were represented (Source: Government of India).
3. Protection for Whistleblowers
The Code should include provisions from the Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2011, safeguarding individuals who report unethical practices. This encourages transparency and accountability by protecting those who expose wrongdoing without fear of retaliation (Source: Government of India).
4. Ethical Guidance for Complex Situations
To assist public servants in navigating ethical dilemmas, the Code should incorporate principles of moral relativism, offering contextual guidance for decision-making in complex scenarios.
5. Mandatory Ethics Education
Continuous ethics training should be mandated, based on cognitive-behavioral ethics, to ensure that public servants internalize ethical values. Regular workshops and seminars can help reinforce these principles.
6. Inclusion of Ethical Performance in Appraisals
Integrating ethical behavior metrics into performance evaluations encourages public servants to prioritize integrity. Article 309 of the Indian Constitution provides a framework for incorporating such metrics into civil service appraisals (Source: Constitution of India).
7. Transparency in Code Updates
Regular reviews and updates to the Code of Ethics are vital for maintaining its relevance. Mechanisms akin to legislative reviews can ensure that the Code adapts to contemporary governance challenges and societal expectations.
Conclusion
A well-structured Code of Ethics, complemented by an effective Code of Conduct, fosters a culture of ethical governance in public administration. As Kautilya wisely stated, “In the happiness of the people lies the happiness of the king; their welfare is his welfare.” This underscores the importance of ethical governance in protecting the well-being of society.
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Model Answer Introduction Mission Karmayogi aims to elevate the standards of conduct and behavior among civil servants, fostering efficiency in public service. This initiative is designed to cultivate a "future-ready civil service" characterized by integrity and professionalism, ultimately enhancingRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Mission Karmayogi aims to elevate the standards of conduct and behavior among civil servants, fostering efficiency in public service. This initiative is designed to cultivate a “future-ready civil service” characterized by integrity and professionalism, ultimately enhancing service delivery at the grassroots level.
High Standards of Conduct and Behavior
1. Ethical Grounding
Mission Karmayogi emphasizes integrity, accountability, and transparency in public service, drawing from deontological ethics. It integrates the Nolan Principles into the training at the LBSNAA, ensuring ethical governance.
2. Behavioural Training
The mission leverages behavioural science to instill a “service-before-self” ethos among civil servants. Training focuses on positive reinforcement and modeling ethical conduct to enhance commitment to public welfare.
3. Continuous Learning
Through the iGOT Karmayogi platform, civil servants engage in lifelong learning, which mirrors Singapore’s SkillsFuture program. This AI-based platform offers personalized learning, aiding civil servants in adapting to evolving governance needs.
4. Performance Monitoring
Utilizing 360-degree performance appraisals, the mission aligns individual achievements with governance goals, promoting accountability and ethical decision-making, as recommended by the 2nd ARC.
5. Holistic Development
By integrating Indian ethics, such as Karma Yoga, with modern administrative theories, the mission fosters both personal growth and professional competence.
Enhancing Productivity and Grassroots Service Delivery
1. Capacity Building
Mission Karmayogi develops essential skills in public administration and project management, enabling efficient grassroots service delivery.
2. Decentralised Decision-Making
By promoting decentralized governance, the mission empowers officers to make localized decisions. The Punchhi Commission advocates for this approach, ensuring faster decision-making.
3. Technology Integration
The use of AI and big data analytics streamlines public services and optimizes service delivery. For instance, Tamil Nadu’s e-District program reduces citizen interactions with government offices.
4. Community Engagement
Training civil servants to engage with local communities fosters participatory governance. The Kudumbashree initiative in Kerala exemplifies effective community-centric service delivery.
5. Inclusivity in Services
Mission Karmayogi ensures that marginalized groups receive fair and inclusive services, akin to the implementation of MGNREGA, which targets vulnerable populations.
Conclusion
Mission Karmayogi embodies the principle that “Sheelam Param Bhushanam” (character is the highest virtue), reinforcing the ethical character of civil servants. By enhancing their skills and promoting accountability, this initiative empowers civil servants to deliver high-quality services, ensuring effective governance and public trust.
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