What is Ethical Conduct of Civil Servants?
Historical Background
The concept of ethical conduct in public service has ancient roots. In India, ideas about righteous governance can be found in texts like the Arthashastra. However, a formal framework for civil service ethics developed during British rule.
After independence in 1947, India adopted a constitution that emphasized justice, equality, and integrity. Over time, various committees and commissions have recommended improvements to ethical standards. The Santhanam Committee on Prevention of Corruption (1962-64) was a landmark.
The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2nd ARC) also made significant recommendations on ethics in governance. These efforts aimed to create a more transparent and accountable civil service. The focus has shifted from simply following rules to promoting a culture of ethical behavior.
The need for ethical conduct has become even more important with increasing globalization and technological advancements.
Key Points
12 points- 1.
Civil servants must maintain absolute integrity. This means being honest and truthful in all their dealings.
- 2.
They should be impartial and non-partisan. They must not show favoritism to any individual or political party.
- 3.
Objectivity is crucial. Decisions should be based on facts and evidence, not personal opinions or biases.
- 4.
Public service values demand dedication to the welfare of citizens. Civil servants should prioritize the public interest above personal gain.
- 5.
Accountability is essential. Civil servants are responsible for their actions and decisions and must be held accountable.
- 6.
Transparency promotes trust. Information should be accessible to the public, except where confidentiality is legally required.
- 7.
Civil servants must maintain confidentiality. They should not disclose sensitive information without authorization.
- 8.
They should avoid conflicts of interest. If a conflict arises, they must declare it and recuse themselves from decision-making.
- 9.
Civil servants should uphold the dignity of public office. Their conduct should be exemplary, both on and off duty.
- 10.
They must comply with all laws, rules, and regulations. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.
- 11.
Civil servants should use public resources efficiently and effectively. Wastefulness and extravagance should be avoided.
- 12.
They should treat all citizens with respect and courtesy. Discrimination of any kind is unacceptable.
Visual Insights
Ethical Conduct of Civil Servants
Key principles and aspects of ethical conduct for civil servants.
Ethical Conduct of Civil Servants
- ●Integrity & Honesty
- ●Impartiality & Objectivity
- ●Accountability & Transparency
- ●Dedication to Public Service
Recent Developments
6 developmentsThe government is increasingly emphasizing e-governance to promote transparency and reduce corruption (ongoing).
There is growing focus on citizen charters to improve service delivery and accountability (ongoing).
Initiatives like Mission Karmayogi aim to enhance the skills and ethical competence of civil servants (launched in 2020).
Increased use of technology for monitoring and evaluation of government programs (ongoing).
Debates continue on strengthening the independence and impartiality of investigative agencies (ongoing).
Discussions are ongoing about reforming the civil services to make them more responsive and accountable (ongoing).
This Concept in News
1 topicsFrequently Asked Questions
61. What is ethical conduct for civil servants and what is its significance for Indian democracy?
Ethical conduct for civil servants means they act with honesty, integrity, and fairness. They follow a code of conduct that builds public trust. This includes being impartial, dedicated to public service, and avoiding conflicts of interest. In Indian democracy, it ensures government decisions are in the public's best interest, maintaining government credibility and strengthening democracy.
2. What are the key provisions related to ethical conduct that civil servants must adhere to?
Civil servants must adhere to several key provisions to maintain ethical conduct. These include:
- •Maintaining absolute integrity: Being honest and truthful in all dealings.
- •Being impartial and non-partisan: Not showing favoritism to any individual or political party.
- •Objectivity: Basing decisions on facts and evidence, not personal opinions or biases.
- •Dedication to public welfare: Prioritizing the public interest above personal gain.
- •Accountability: Being responsible for their actions and decisions and being held accountable.
Exam Tip
Remember the acronym I-PO-DA (Integrity, Partisanship, Objectivity, Dedication, Accountability) to recall the key provisions.
3. How has the concept of ethical conduct in civil services evolved in India over time?
The concept has ancient roots, with ideas about righteous governance in texts like the Arthashastra. A formal framework developed during British rule. After independence in 1947, the Constitution emphasized justice, equality, and integrity. Committees and commissions, such as the Santhanam Committee, have recommended improvements to ethical standards over time.
4. What are the challenges in implementing ethical conduct among civil servants in India?
Challenges include:
- •Lack of effective enforcement mechanisms.
- •Political interference in administrative decisions.
- •Low levels of awareness about ethical codes.
- •Complex and lengthy procedures that can encourage corruption.
- •Societal acceptance of minor unethical practices.
5. What is the legal framework supporting ethical conduct of civil servants in India?
The Constitution of India provides the foundation for ethical governance. Article 14 guarantees equality before the law. Article 309 empowers the Parliament and state legislatures to regulate the recruitment and conditions of service of civil servants. The All India Services (Conduct) Rules also play a crucial role.
Exam Tip
Focus on Articles 14 and 309 of the Constitution and the All India Services (Conduct) Rules.
6. How do recent developments like Mission Karmayogi aim to improve ethical conduct among civil servants?
Initiatives like Mission Karmayogi, launched in 2020, aim to enhance the skills and ethical competence of civil servants. E-governance promotes transparency and reduces corruption. Citizen charters improve service delivery and accountability.