You have successfully passed several rounds in your quest to become an IAS officer, and you have now been chosen for the in-person interview. On your way to the interview location on the day of the interview, you witnessed an accident in which a mother and her child—who just so happened to be your relatives—were seriously hurt. They required aid right away.
In such a circumstance, how would you have responded? Explain what you did. (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- Context: Briefly introduce the situation of witnessing an accident involving relatives on the day of the IAS interview.
- Thesis Statement: State the importance of responding effectively in emergencies, highlighting the ethical and moral obligations of a civil servant.
2. Body
A. Immediate Response to the Accident
- Assess the Situation: Explain the importance of quickly evaluating the condition of the injured (the mother and child).
- Prioritize Aid: Describe the need to provide any immediate assistance within your capabilities.
B. Call for Emergency Services
- Contact Authorities: Emphasize the critical step of calling for an ambulance and providing precise location details.
- Fact: Timely medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes in emergency situations (World Health Organization, 2018).
C. Inform the Interview Panel
- Notification: After ensuring that help is on the way, outline the importance of informing the interview panel about the delay.
- Detailed Explanation: Mention the necessity of communicating your actions and the urgency of the situation.
3. Justification for Actions Taken
A. Humanitarian Obligation
- Discuss the moral responsibility to assist relatives in distress.
B. Upholding Core Values
- Reinforce the values of empathy and public service inherent in civil service roles.
C. Demonstrating Crisis Management Skills
- Highlight the ability to handle emergencies effectively, a critical skill for an IAS officer.
D. Transparency and Integrity
- Emphasize the importance of honesty and integrity in communication with the interview panel.
4. Conclusion
- Summary: Recap the actions taken and their alignment with the ideals of public service.
- Final Reflection: Stress that prioritizing ethical responsibilities and humanitarian actions is essential for a future IAS officer.
Handling a Personal Emergency on the Day of the Interview
Situation Analysis: As an IAS aspirant selected for a personal interview, encountering an accident involving injured relatives on the way to the venue presents a critical dilemma. Immediate action is required to address both the emergency and the interview commitment.
Immediate Action:
Justification for Action:
Conclusion: In such a scenario, immediate action to assist the injured relatives is the foremost priority, reflecting ethical responsibility and human compassion. Subsequently, informing the interview panel about the situation ensures transparency and maintains professional integrity. This approach balances humanitarian concerns with professional commitments, showcasing the qualities required for an IAS officer.
Model Answer
Introduction
The scenario presented involves an aspiring IAS officer who encounters a severe accident involving relatives on the day of their crucial interview. This situation demands a prompt and thoughtful response, balancing personal obligations with professional aspirations.
Body
In the event of witnessing my injured relatives—a mother and child—requiring immediate assistance, my actions would be as follows:
1. Prioritize Immediate Help
2. Call for Emergency Services
3. Inform the Interview Panel
Justification for the Action Taken
1. Humanitarian Obligation
2. Upholding Core Values
3. Demonstrating Crisis Management Skills
4. Transparency and Integrity
Conclusion
While missing the interview may have short-term implications, prioritizing the immediate welfare of my injured relatives aligns with the ideals of public service. This response illustrates responsibility, empathy, and crisis management skills—qualities vital for an aspiring IAS officer.