1. Definition of Public Servant: A public servant is an individual employed in the government sector whose role is to serve the public interest and execute government policies. This includes bureaucrats, judges, police officers, and other government officials who work to uphold laws and provide services to citizens.

2. Important Aptitudes for Civil Services:

• Analytical Thinking: The ability to analyze complex problems and devise effective solutions is crucial. For example, IAS officers in Andhra Pradesh successfully managed flood relief operations by employing robust analytical skills to assess damage and coordinate resources effectively.
• Decision-Making Skills: Effective decision-making involves assessing situations and making informed choices swiftly. The response to the COVID-19 crisis required civil servants to make timely decisions on lockdowns and resource allocation.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication and empathy are necessary to handle diverse public interactions and address grievances effectively. Initiatives like the ‘Janta Darbar’ by several state governments showcase civil servants engaging directly with citizens to resolve issues.

Overall, a blend of analytical thinking, decision-making, and interpersonal skills are essential for effective performance in civil services.

Gita’s Anasakta Yoga and Its Message to Civil Servants

1. Understanding Anasakta Yoga: Anasakta Yoga, or the Yoga of Non-Attachment, is a concept from the Bhagavad Gita, specifically in Chapter 2, Verse 47. It emphasizes performing one’s duty without attachment to the results or outcomes of the actions. The focus is on selfless action and dedicating efforts to the larger good rather than personal gains.

2. Message to Civil Servants:

• Focus on Duty: Anasakta Yoga teaches civil servants to concentrate on performing their duties diligently, irrespective of personal recognition or rewards. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many civil servants worked tirelessly, prioritizing public health and safety over personal comfort, exemplifying non-attachment to the outcomes of their efforts.
• Detachment from Results: The principle encourages detachment from the results of one’s actions, reducing stress and frustration. This is crucial in administrative roles where outcomes can be influenced by various factors beyond one’s control. For instance, the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) involves long-term impacts; thus, officials must focus on effective implementation rather than immediate results.
• Ethical and Selfless Service: It promotes selfless service, guiding civil servants to act with integrity and commitment to public welfare. The recent Clean India Campaign (Swachh Bharat Mission), where officials and citizens worked towards a cleaner India, reflects the values of Anasakta Yoga, focusing on the mission’s purpose rather than personal accolades.

In summary, Anasakta Yoga offers a profound message to civil servants: to perform their duties with dedication and integrity, while remaining detached from the results, thereby ensuring effective and selfless public service.

Impartiality and Commitment in Civil Services

a. Impartiality: Impartiality is a core principle of civil services, requiring neutrality and fairness in decision-making. Civil servants must perform their duties without bias or favoritism. For example, the Supreme Court’s involvement in the Delhi police investigation into the Delhi riots of 2020 underscores the need for impartial law enforcement to ensure justice.

b. Commitment: Commitment reflects a civil servant’s dedication to public service and ethical standards. It involves going beyond mere compliance to actively promote societal welfare and effectiveness. The efforts of IAS officers like Satyendra Dubey, who was committed to transparency and corruption-free execution of projects, exemplify this principle.

Conclusion: Impartiality ensures fairness in governance, while commitment drives effective and ethical public service, both essential for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of civil services.