Roadmap for Answer Writing

I. Introduction

• Define persuasion and social influence in the context of public service.
  Example: “Persuasion refers to the act of influencing others’ beliefs or behaviors, while social influence pertains to the ways in which individuals change their actions to align with societal norms.”
• State your belief: Persuasion and social influence are indeed effective in driving positive change in public service, as they help align public behavior with government initiatives and societal goals.

II. Role of Persuasion in Public Service

1. Disaster Management
   • Fact: Persuasion can encourage compliance with critical safety measures.
   • Example: During COVID-19, persuasive campaigns promoted social distancing and mask-wearing, saving lives by slowing the virus’ spread.
2. Healthcare Initiatives
   • Fact: Persuasion can increase participation in public health campaigns.
   • Example: The Pulse Polio Campaign used door-to-door visits to persuade marginalized groups to vaccinate their children, ensuring broader coverage and preventing disease outbreaks.
3. Economic Health
   • Fact: Persuasive campaigns can instill fiscal responsibility.
   • Example: The Ujjwala Scheme’s “Give it Up” campaign persuaded over 1.13 crore people to voluntarily relinquish their LPG subsidy, helping reduce the financial burden on the government.
4. Conflict Resolution
   • Fact: Persuasion is used to de-escalate conflicts and build peace.
   • Example: Police forces have used persuasion to convince Maoists to give up arms and reintegrate into society, fostering peace and stability.

III. Role of Social Influence in Public Service

1. Social Change
   • Fact: Social influence can promote progressive societal norms.
   • Example: The “Selfie with Daughter” campaign significantly challenged patriarchal norms, encouraging people to celebrate and value daughters in Indian society.
2. Policy Implementation
   • Fact: Social influence can increase the adoption of government programs.
   • Example: The Swachh Bharat Mission harnessed social influence to promote sanitation practices, resulting in over 50% of villages achieving ODF Plus status by the second phase.

IV. Conclusion

• Restate the effectiveness of persuasion and social influence in public service.
• Emphasize that these tools, when used ethically and responsibly, can drive long-term positive changes, improve public service delivery, and enhance societal progress.

Step 4: Relevant Facts and Examples

1. Persuasion in Public Service

• Fact: Persuasion aids in enforcing critical health and safety measures.
  • Example: COVID-19 campaigns effectively used persuasion to encourage social distancing and mask-wearing.
• Fact: Persuasion encourages marginalized groups to participate in health programs.
  • Example: The Pulse Polio Campaign involved door-to-door campaigns for immunization.
• Fact: Persuasive campaigns can foster fiscal responsibility and reduce subsidies.
  • Example: Over 1.13 crore individuals gave up LPG subsidies under the Ujjwala Scheme’s “Give it Up” campaign.
• Fact: Persuasion can be a tool for conflict resolution.
  • Example: Police have persuaded Maoists to surrender and join mainstream society, promoting peace.

2. Social Influence in Public Service

• Fact: Social influence drives changes in societal behaviors and attitudes.
  • Example: The “Selfie with Daughter” campaign shifted societal views on daughters and gender equality.
• Fact: Social influence improves the implementation of public schemes.
  • Example: Swachh Bharat Mission’s emphasis on behavior change led to over 50% of villages achieving ODF Plus status.

Step 5: Presentation Tips

1. Use Clear Headings and Subheadings: To structure the response and improve readability.
2. Incorporate Real-Life Examples: Use specific facts and examples for greater relevance and impact.
3. Be Concise: Stick to the word limit while covering all essential points.
4. End on a Positive Note: Emphasize the positive outcomes of using persuasion and social influence in public service.

By following this roadmap, you will create a well-structured, comprehensive, and effective answer.