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In addition to morality and intellectual prowess, empathy and compassion are some other essential traits that help civil servants be more capable of handling important situations or making difficult choices. Provide appropriate examples to clarify. (Word count: 150) [UPSC 2022]
Empathy and Compassion in Civil Service
Introduction
While intellectual competency and moral qualities are essential for civil servants, empathy and compassion are equally crucial in effectively addressing critical issues and making impactful decisions.
Empathy and Compassion: Key Attributes
Conclusion
Empathy and compassion are critical for civil servants to connect with people, address their issues effectively, and make well-rounded decisions that enhance public welfare and trust.
Model Answer
Introduction
Empathy and compassion are crucial attributes that can significantly enhance the effectiveness of civil servants. These qualities enable them to understand the needs and concerns of the citizens they serve, leading to more responsive policies and programs.
Body
Understanding the Needs of the People
Empathy allows civil servants to put themselves in the shoes of the citizens, grasping their challenges and aspirations. For instance, Bezwada Wilson, an Indian civil servant and activist, dedicated his life to eradicating manual scavenging, demonstrating how empathy can drive meaningful change in society.
Effective Decision-Making
Compassion enables civil servants to consider the well-being of the populace when making decisions. E. Sreedharan, known as the “Metro Man of India,” played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the Delhi Metro project, showcasing how compassionate decision-making can lead to significant infrastructure improvements that benefit the public.
Building Trust and Credibility
Demonstrating empathy and compassion helps civil servants establish trust with the public, enhancing their credibility. Dr. Abhay Bang, a public health expert, founded the Society for Education, Action, and Research in Community Health (SEARCH) to provide healthcare services to marginalized communities in rural Maharashtra, illustrating how compassion fosters trust and community engagement.
Tailoring Services and Policies
Empathy aids civil servants in designing services and policies that are sensitive to diverse needs. Dr. Prakash Amte and his wife, Dr. Mandakini Amte, established Lok Biradari Prakalp, focusing on healthcare, education, and livelihood support for tribal communities in Maharashtra, exemplifying how tailored services can promote inclusivity.
Conflict Resolution and Problem-Solving
Compassion allows civil servants to approach conflicts with understanding, seeking equitable solutions. Kamal Kishore played a significant role in post-disaster management during the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, demonstrating how compassionate leadership can effectively address crises.
Conclusion
Empathy and compassion are essential attributes for civil servants, complementing intellectual competence and moral qualities. By prioritizing these qualities, civil servants can ensure that their policies and programs genuinely serve the needs of their communities.