UP PCS Mains-2024

Approach Start your answer by defining the term. Mention its relevance in civil services. Conclude accordingly.

(a) Probity: The term probity is derived from the Latin ‘probitas’, which means “honest.” Probity in governance is the term used to describe the existence of strong ethical and moral norms inside the governance process. Example: An IAS officer Durga Shakti Nagpal taken action against the land scam and sand mafia racket in Uttar Pradesh is an example of probity in governance.

Relevance in civil services:

• To tackle the menace of corruption and bring socio-economic development to the country.
• To bring efficient and effective system of governance through transparency, justice, fairness, responsibility, accountability, responsiveness etc.
• To develop trust, credibility and social capital.

(b) Objectivity: It refers to taking decisions on a fair basis without any bias or external influence. It means being truthful, unbiased, impartial and sticking to facts. Objectivity helps civil servants to take reasoned decisions and defend them in front of others. Example: District collector in making appointments needs to give priority to merit rather than other factors such as nepotism.

Relevance in civil services:

• To promote fairness, justice, transparency, in society.
• To provide services while upholding equity and inclusivity.
• To prevent emotion from impairing our judgment.
• Assists in keeping situational awareness while doing duties.

(c) Accountability: It refers to the process as well as norms that make decision makers answerable to ones for whom decisions are taken i.e., the decision maker and the beneficiary. It is one of the most important factors in good governance. For example, CAG upheld the financial accountability of the executive.

Relevance in civil services:

• Democratic governance: The accountability to the citizens is a fundamental principle of democratic governance. It is not limited to accountability to seniors in hierarchy only as part of chain of command but also the stakeholders including citizens and civil society.
• Answerability: Accountability as an answerability component to justify the action and an enforcement component that is to take action in cases where an act of omission or commission is established.
• Remedial measures: It provides for remedial measures including punishment in case of deviations from norms.
• Public confidence: Accountability helps in improving public confidence in government performance. (For e.g., social audit mechanism).

Thus, all the above traits are crucial in civil services.