Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

Mahatma Gandhi's ethical philosophy, rooted in truth (satya), non-violence (ahimsa), trusteeship, self-discipline, and service to others, continues to serve as a moral compass for governance and public administration.

Body

Core Tenets of Gandhian Ethics and Their Contemporary Relevance

• Satya (Truth) – Foundation of Transparent Governance
  • Gandhi believed that truth must guide public life. In governance, this translates to transparency, honesty, and integrity.
  • Example: The RTI Act, 2005 empowers citizens with the truth behind government functioning, promoting openness and accountability.
• Ahimsa (Non-violence) – Promoting Harmony and Conflict Resolution
  • Ahimsa is not just physical non-violence but also respect, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
  • Example: Initiatives promoting communal harmony, such as Operation Sadbhavana and conflict resolution through dialogue, reflect Gandhian ideals.
• Sarvodaya (Welfare of All) and Trusteeship– Inclusive Development
  • Gandhi’s concept of Sarvodaya calls for upliftment of the weakest.
    • Example: Government schemes like Antyodaya Anna Yojana, PM Garib Kalyan Yojana, and Aspirational Districts Programme reflect this ethos by targeting the most deprived sections of society.
  • Also, Gandhi advocated that wealth and power must be held in trust for the community’s welfare.
    • Example: CSR obligations under Companies Act, 2013 promote responsible business behavior.
• Simplicity and Self-discipline – Ethical Conduct of Public Servants
  • Gandhi lived by example, demonstrating that leadership requires austerity, self-restraint, and moral courage.
  • Example: Administrators like E. Sreedharan ("Metro Man of India") lived a life of simplicity and public service, reflecting Gandhian values.
• Swaraj (Self-rule) and Decentralisation
  • Gandhi's idea of Swaraj was not just political independence but empowered local self-governance.
    • Example: The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments establishing Panchayati Raj and urban local bodies resonate deeply with Gandhi’s vision of village republics and grassroots democracy.

Relevance in Contemporary Challenges:

Conclusion

Though governance today is dominated by technology, institutions, and global interdependence, Gandhian ethics offer timeless principles rooted in human dignity, service, and moral responsibility. Reinvigorating Gandhian ideals in governance is not a step backward, but a leap forward toward truly ethical and empathetic public service.