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  • What do you understand by probity in governance? Based on your understanding of the term, suggest measures for ensuring probity in government. (150 words, 10m)

    Probity is a multifaceted concept representing the quality of having strong moral principles, absolute integrity, and uprightness in the discharge of public duties.

    Key Components of Probity

    Integrity- Adherence to a strict moral and ethical code. E- Lal Bahadur Shastri

    Transparency- Decisions and actions must be open to public scrutiny.

    Accountability- Public servants must be answerable for their actions and omissions.

    Objectivity- Decisions should be based on merit and evidence, free from bias or personal interest.

    Impartiality- Acting without prejudice toward any particular group or individual.

    Avoiding conflict of interest through disclosures and recusals

    Frugality- Treating public money with more care than one’s own

    Ensuring probity requires a “triple-lock” approach– Structural, Procedural, and Behavioral.

    1. Institutional and Legal Reforms

    Ensuring the independence and resource-sufficiency of bodies like Lokpal, Lokayukta and CVC

    Rigorous implementation of the Whistleblowers Protection Act.

    Empowering the CAG to conduct social audits and performance audits

    Adoption of the “Hong Kong Model” (ICAC) to tackle corruption – three-pronged strategy of Investigation, Prevention, and Community Education

    2. Procedural and Technological Measures

    E-Governance to reduce human discretion and the “gatekeeper” effect. Eg- GeM

    Citizens’ Charters- Mandating clear timelines for service delivery. Eg- SAKALA (Karnataka Guarantee of Services Act)

    Proactive disclosure under Section 4 of the RTI Act for transparency

    Mandatory and periodic declaration of assets and liabilities by civil servants

    3. Human Resource and Ethical Reforms

    Moving beyond a “Rule-based” conduct code (what not to do) to a “Value-based” code of ethics (what to strive for) (2nd ARC).

    Competency-linked training under Mission Karmayogi to ensure civil servants are not only skilled but also ethically grounded.

    4. Social and Political Measures

    Legal backing to Social Audits. (Meghalaya Act)

    Ensuring transparency in electoral funding to prevent the “quid-pro-quo” culture at top.

    As pointed out by PM Modi in Independence Day speech, promoting ‘suchita, pardarshita and nishpakshata’ (probity, transparency and impartiality) is essential for ‘Amrit Kaal’

  • Effective utilisation of public funds is crucial to meet development goals. Critically examine the reasons for under-utilization and mis-utilisation of public funds and their implications.(150 words, 10m)

    Resource stewardship is the hallmark of good governance and is essential for translating fiscal resources into social welfare. Its poor utilisation violates the “trusteeship” principle (Locke)

    Importance of Effective Utilization of Public Funds

    Achieving Social Justice- Tribal sub plan funds reducing historical inequality.

    Human Capital Formation through improved public service delivery

    Poverty Alleviation- Eg- DBT provide a safety net for those below the poverty line.

    Fiscal Discipline- Prevents unnecessary borrowing and reduces the fiscal deficit

    Builds Public Trust in government – ensures better tax-compliance

    Attracting Investment- “Crowding-in” effect.

    Reasons for Under-Utilization

    Administrative Red Tapism- Lengthy approval processes for tenders and contracts.

    Late fund release lead to “March Rush”

    Capacity Constraints- Local bodies lack technical staff to draft Detailed Project Reports (DPRs).

    One-size-fits-all guidelines limits flexibility. Eg- CSS

    Land acquisition delays stalls major infrastructure projects.

    Low accountability- lack of real-time tracking of funds

    Fear of the “3 Cs”(CBI, CVC, CAG) causes bureaucratic paralysis

    Reasons for Mis-Utilization

    Corruption through ghost beneficiaries. Eg- over 10 lakh fake accounts in Ayushman Bharat (CAG)

    Political populism – Diverting long-term developmental funds into short-term electoral “gifts”.

    Poor accountability mechanisms. Eg- lack of social audits

    Absence of Outcome Budgeting- Focus on “outlays” rather than “impact” (lives changed).

    Institutionalized Rent-Seeking- The presence of middlemen in every stage of fund dispersal.

    Politician-bureaucrat-corporate nexus (Vohra committee) – leads to culture of impunity

    Implications

    Violates utilitarian maxim of greatest happiness of greatest number

    Leads to inequality – 1% holding >40% national wealth (Oxfam)

    Poor quality of service is delivered to citizens. Eg- rotten foodgrains in PDS

    Cost Overruns- Delays lead to inflation-adjusted increases in project costs.

    Delayed Benefits- The public is deprived of essential services

    Opportunity Cost- Capital that could have been used elsewhere remains locked and unproductive.

    Economic Distortion- Unproductive spending leads to inflation without asset creation.

    Erosion of Ethics- Normalizes a culture of dishonesty within the civil service.

    Leads to “Taxpayer Cynicism” – encourage tax evasion.

    Public servants are trustee of public funds. It must be used with responsibility and integrity.

  • What is meant by ‘crisis of conscience’? How does it manifest itself in the public domain? (150 words, 10m)

    Manifestation in the Public Domain

    Whistleblowing against Corruption- conflict between “loyalty to the organization” and “duty to the public” triggers a crisis.

    Implementation of Unjust Policies- Eg- implementing order for eviction of slum dwellers during a harsh winter without a rehabilitation plan.

    Conflict between Rule of Law and Compassion- Eg- Denying a starving, elderly woman her rations because her biometrics failed to authenticate.

    Political Pressure on Neutrality- Eg- An officer being asked to manipulate environmental impact data to favor an industrial project.

    Medical Ethics in Public Healthcare- Eg- Medical triage decisions

    Journalists reporting on sensitive issues like human rights violations face a clash between “patriotism” and “truth.”

    Environmental Protection vs. Development- Eg- Aarey Forest case in Mumbai

    Institutional loyalty vs public interest- When statisticians are pressured to “under-report” inflation or unemployment figures to suit a government’s narrative.

    Confidentiality vs. Public Safety- When an official knows a “state secret” that involves a threat to public health but is ordered to remain silent.

    Efficiency vs justice or Speedy action vs due process. Eg- Bulldozer demolitions.

    Security vs rights – Eg- Internet shutdowns in J&K

    Career risk vs ethical stand – Eg- Sanjiv Chaturvedi (IFS) facing transfers for exposing corruption in AIIMS and HRD Ministry.

    Majoritarian demand vs minority rights – Public pressure conflicting with constitutional morality. Eg- Sabrimala case

    Ethical Framework to Address Crisis of Conscience

    Constitutional Morality

    The Public Interest Test

    Gandhian Talisman

    Principle of Non-Maleficence

    Objectivity and Neutrality

    Transparency and Accountability

    Courage of Conviction

    Categorical Imperative (Kant)

    Integrity (Wholeness)

    Seeking Guidance through “Phronesis”

    “There is a higher court than courts of justice and that is the court of conscience. It supersedes all other courts.” – Mahatma Gandhi

    By aligning actions with the “higher court of conscience,” a public official can ensure human-centric, just, and truly democratic governance.

  • What are the basic principles of public life? Illustrate any three of these with suitable examples.(150 words, 10m)

    “Public office is a public trust.” – Grover Cleveland

    Public life refers to the activities and roles individuals undertake in the service of the community, whether as elected representatives, civil servants, or members of public bodies.

    Basic principles of public life

    Nolan Principles

    Selflessness

    Integrity

    Objectivity

    Openness

    Leadership

    Accountability

    Honesty

    Leadership

    Indian constitutional ethos

    Transparency

    Impartiality

    Responsiveness

    Commitment to public interest

    Three basic values and their importance

    Integrity (Honesty and probity in conduct) – Acting truthfully, transparently and consistently with moral and legal standards.

    Importance-

    Prevents corruption and misuse of public office.

    Builds citizens’ trust in institutions.

    Protects fairness in decision-making.

    Strengthens legitimacy of the state.

    Illustration- Sanjiv Chaturvedi (IFS) exposed corruption in AIIMS despite facing harassment.

    Impartiality (Fairness and non-discrimination) – Treating all individuals and groups equally, without bias based on identity, status or political affiliation.

    Importance-

    Upholds equality before law.

    Prevents favouritism and discrimination.

    Stability during Political Transitions

    Impartial officer acts as a trusted mediator in conflict resolution

    Illustration- T.N. Seshan, as CEC, enforcing MCC in fair manner.

    Accountability – Being answerable for decisions and taking responsibility for consequences.

    Importance-

    Feedback Loop- facilitates a two-way communication between state and citizens

    Improves transparency and performance.

    Enables democratic control over bureaucracy.

    Promotes ethical and careful decision-making.

    Illustration – Ashwini Vaishnaw took moral responsibility after the Odisha train accident by personally overseeing relief and restoration.

    These values ensure that “Steel Frame” does not rust or bend under the weight of corruption and bias.

  • “Non-performance of duty by a public servant is a form of corruption” Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer (150 words, 10m)

    “The greatest corruption is the corruption of duty.” – Edmund Burke

    Conventionally, corruption is viewed as the “misuse of public office for private gain,” however, in a broader ethical sense, omission (failing to act) is as damaging as commission (acting wrongly).

    Non-performance of duty as form of corruption

    Theft of Public Salary- Taking a salary while deliberately avoiding work is “financial fraud” against the taxpayer. Eg- “Ghost employees” in various municipal bodies

    Creation of “Induced” Corruption- Deliberate delays (Red Tapism) are often used to force citizens to pay “speed money.”

    Violation of the Right to Life- Eg- delay in safety audits leading to Mundra building tragedy.

    Delays in project clearance lead to Policy Paralysis- High economic “opportunity cost.” Eg- delays in environmental clearances in PPP projects

    Inaction is a betrayal of the “fiduciary duty” owed to the citizens. Eg- Police officers failing to register an FIR in SC, ST atrocity cases.

    Wastage of Resources- Eg- food grains roting in FCI godowns while tribal populations suffer from malnutrition.

    When officials don’t work, citizens lose faith in democracy and turn to extra-constitutional means for justice. Eg- rise of “vigilante justice”

    Moral hazard – Inaction normalises irresponsibility.

    Facilitates exploitation. Eg- Labour inspectors not enforcing minimum wage laws.

    Ways to Curb Corruption and Non-Performance

    Code of Ethics & Code of Conduct. (2nd ARC)

    Implementation of Citizens’ Charters- Eg- SAKALA (Karnataka Guarantee of Services Act)

    Giving legal backing to Social Audits

    Leveraging Technology. Eg- Faceless Income Tax Assessment

    Strengthening the Lokpal and Lokayuktas to investigate “maladministration” and “neglect”

    Independent Commission Against Corruption – “Hong Kong Model”

    Performance-linked accountability. Eg- 360 degree feedback

    A culture of active responsibility, diligence and accountability is needed to deal with the menace of corruption.

  • “A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes.” – M.K.Gandhi (150 words, 10m)

    Gandhi highlights that human character, behaviour and destiny are shaped fundamentally by one’s thoughts. The external success and failure are reflections of internal belief systems.

    At the Individual Level, a person who harbors thoughts of inadequacy or “helplessness” will live a life of stagnation and fear. On the other hand, someone who maintains a Growth Mindset views failures as lessons. Eg- J.K. Rowling faced multiple rejections for Harry Potter but remained untroubled.

    At the Professional Level, those who their work as a means to earn money, become a mediocre employee. However, those who think of their work as a form of “Karma Yoga”, become a leader who inspires others. Eg- Gandhiji thought of himself not as a politician, but as a seeker of truth.

    At the Social Level, if a society thinks in terms of “us vs. them”, it becomes a fragmented and violent space. Conversely, if the prevailing thought is “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” , the society becomes inclusive and peaceful.

    In civil services, civil servant who thinks in terms of service and responsibility will act ethically even under pressure, while one who thinks in terms of personal gain will drift towards corruption. Eg- Ashok Khemka served with integrity despite over 50 transfers.

    In the technological domain, those who adhere to values of honesty, compassion, respect, truth use it in ethical manner while those who view it as a tool to vent out anger do harm to others. Eg- cyberbullying.

    “The mind is the workshop where destiny is made.” Thus, inculcating “GOOD” thoughts is key for developing “beautiful minds.” This can be achieved through

    Ethical parenting

    Value education

    Ethics training for civil servants

    Code of Ethics for organisations

    Inculcating constitutional ideals

  • “An unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates (150 words, 10m)

    The above statement made by Socrates during his trial for “corrupting the youth,” suggests that the essence of being human lies in our capacity for self-reflection and the quest for purpose.

    Values involved

    Truth-seeking

    Rationality

    Moral autonomy

    Integrity and courage

    Wisdom of humility

    Freedom of thought

    According to him, examination allows us to identify the difference between opinion (Doxa) and knowledge (Episteme). Socrates used a process of “Elenchus” (logical interrogation) to refine our understanding of the word. In his words,

    “wisdom starts with the realization that I know nothing.”

    For individuals, an examined life helps prevent mindless conformity and harmful habits, thereby protecting personal autonomy, mental health and ethical character. Eg- young person who critically examines online content is less likely to fall for fake news or extremist propaganda.

    For society, collective examination enables reform and moral progress. The anti-caste movement led by thinkers like B.R. Ambedkar emerged from questioning inherited social hierarchies.

    For civil servants, self-examination prevents mechanical obedience and promotes ethical judgement. Officers like Ashok Khemka exemplify how reflective officials act as guardians of legality and justice rather than mere executors of orders.

    For leaders, an examined life restrains the misuse of power and promotes responsible leadership with with foresight, empathy and moral restraint. Eg- Gandhi’s differentiation between evil and evil doer, Nelson Mandela’s efforts for reconciliation.

    For a nation, an examined citizenry prevents turning democracy into “mobocracy”. An unexmined citizens turn into superfluous masses as happened in Germany under Nazi party.

    Without reflection, life becomes passive, society becomes stagnant, power becomes dangerous and democracy becomes hollow. Examination is the foundation of wisdom, justice and freedom.

  • “Where there is righteousness in the heart, there is beauty in the character. When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home. When there is harmony in the home, there is order in the nation. When there is order in the nation, there is peace in the world.” – A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (150 words, 10m)

    “Righteousness is the foundation upon which the edifice of a peaceful world is built.”

    According to A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, personal ethics is the foundation of social order and global harmony. It outlines a concentric theory of peace.

    Philosophical Basis

    Reflects virtue ethics – character determines moral action.

    Emphasises moral causality – small ethical choices accumulate into large social outcomes.

    Aligns with Gandhian philosophy – be the change you wish to see.

    Supports holistic ethics – micro-level morality influences macro-level peace.

    The Ethical Chain Reaction

    Righteousness in the Heart- implies integrity, empathy, and alignment of thoughts with ethical principles. Eg- Mahatma Gandhi’s insistance on Ahimsa.

    Beauty in the Character- When the heart is upright, it manifests in the form of honesty, humility, and courage. Eg- In the age of “social media filters,” true “beauty” is lies in consistency of our values.

    Harmony in the Home- A person of character treats their family with respect and love. It becomes the first laboratory of democracy and peace.

    Order in the Nation- Stable families raise responsible citizens, reducing crime and social unrest. Eg- civic culture in Japan due to focus on “character building” in schools

    A “Righteous Heart” ensures that a bureaucrat uses their power for the Antyodaya – builds social capital and comprehensive national power

    Peace in the World- When nations operate with internal order and external respect, global conflict diminishes, leading to sustainable peace. Eg- Montreal Protocol – nations (acting with a sense of “Global Righteousness”) decided to ban CFCs to save the Ozone layer.

    Thus, “Righteousness in the Heart” is the key to global peace, prosperity and justice.

  • What do you understand by the term ‘public servant’? Reflect on the expected role of a public servant.(150 words, 10m)

    A public servant is an individual entrusted by the state to exercise authority and perform functions on behalf of society in order to implement laws, deliver public services and protect citizens’ rights and welfare.

    “A public official is a fiduciary of the public’s interest.” – Paul H. Douglas

    The Expected Role of a Public Servant

    Policy Advisor- Providing “objective and honest” advice to the government.

    Guardian of the Constitution- Ensuring that every administrative action aligns with constitutional values.

    Bridge between State and Citizen by ensuring fair and effective implementation of policies.

    Agent of Social Change- Actively working to dismantle regressive social norms. Eg- S. Shankaran in implementing the Bonded Labour Abolition Act

    Custodian of Public Funds- Practicing “Financial Probity.” Eg- E. Sreedharan – objectivity in the awarding of contracts for the Delhi Metro.

    Upholder of Integrity- Resisting bribes and external pressures to maintain professional standards. Eg- U. Sagayam (IAS) declaring his assets publicly.

    Leader by Example- Inspiring subordinates to work with the same level of dedication and ethics. Eg- Kiran Bedi (IPS) reforming Tihar jail

    Impartial Arbitrator- Resolving disputes between different social or economic groups without bias. Eg- R.N. Ravi, played a pivotal role in the Naga peace talks

    Empathetic Listener- Being accessible to the grievances of the poorest citizens.

    Innovator in Governance- Finding low-cost, high-impact solutions to local problems. Eg- IAS Prashant Nair used crowdfunding for community kitchens

    Protector of the Marginalized- Ensuring that the “last person” (Antyodaya) receives the benefits of the state. Eg- Dr Nidhi Patel pioneering space lab for rural students in Bilaspur.

    Crisis Manager- Providing leadership during natural disasters or civil unrest. Eg- Dr. Rajendra Bharud (IAS) setting up an oxygen plant in tribal Nandurbar before the second COVID wave

    Regulatory Watchdog- Ensuring that private entities follow safety and ethical standards. Eg- Vinod Rai as CAG exposed “presumptive losses” in the 2G Spectrum and Coal block allocations.

    Environmental Steward- Eg- Dr. Hari Chandana building pavements from recycled plastic in Hyderabad.

    “The civil service is not a service of status, but a service of responsibility. It is a commitment to the conscience of the nation.” – Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

  • Elaborate on the policy taken by the government of India to meet the challenges of the food processing sector.

    Food processing refers to the transformation of raw agricultural commodities into value-added, marketable, and storable products through physical, chemical, or biological methods. India’s FPS is projected to grow from USD $billion (2023) to $700 billion by 2030.

    Challenges of the Food Processing Sector in India

    Low Level of Processing – Only ~10% of total agricultural produce is processed (vs 60-70% in developed countries).

    Post-harvest losses of 15-20% due to shortage of cold-storage, and transport infrastructure.

    Fragmented Supply Chain – 86% of farmers are small/marginal – limits aggregation

    High Logistics Cost of 13-14% of GDP (vs 8-9% in developed countries).

    Delay in project implementation – Eg- only 25 out of 42 approved Mega Food Parks operational

    Regulatory & Compliance Issues – Complex FSSAI norms and licensing delays discourage small processors.

    Micro and small units struggle to access formal credit, collateral, and working capital.

    Skill gap – Only 3% of the food processing workforce is formally trained

    Quality & Safety Gaps – Inconsistent adherence to food safety standards, and limited testing infrastructure. Eg- Rejection of Indian exports by EU.

    Negligible R&D (<0.5% of sectoral GVA) – stall innovation in packaging and product design.

    Policy Measures Taken by the Government of India

    The food processing sector has been recognized as a ‘sunrise sector‘ and a key priority industry under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

    PM-Kisan SAMPADA (2016) – Central Sector Scheme to build a modern processing ecosystem from farm-gate to retail.

    Mega Food Parks Scheme – Provides land, utilities, common facilities, effluent plants, R&D labs.

    PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PM-FME) – Provides 40% credit-linked subsidy, branding support, and training for 2 lakh micro units under the One District One Product (ODOP) approach.

    Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLISFPI) to boost domestic manufacturing.

    Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) – A fund for financing warehouses, cold storage, packhouses, and primary processing units.

    Operation Greens (TOP to TOTAL) – Price stabilization fund for tomato, onion, potato, now expanded to all perishable crops

    100% FDI in food processing and 100% FDI under Government route for retail of food produced in India.

    e-NAM Integration – Linking mandis for better price discovery, quality grading, and seamless movement of produce.

    Krishi Udan and Krishi Rail schemes – to ease out freight rates enabling smooth movement of perishables.

    Food processing included under PSL to improve access to affordable credit.

    National Makhana Board to globally position Indian superfoods like makhana.

    Infrastructure Status (HLIS) – Food parks are included in Harmonized List of Infrastructure – enables concessional loans.

    Collaboration with Invest India for FDI facilitation, market access, regulatory assistance.

    Budgetary Push – MoFPI budget 2024-25 increased by 30.19%, reflecting policy priority.

    Way Forward

    Develop Smart Food Processing Hubs using IoT, AI, and blockchain

    Zero-Waste Processing using circular economy models. Eg- converting fruit peels to bio-plastics

    Cluster-Based Development under One District One Product (ODOP) model

    Regulatory Simplification – Create a single-window clearance system

    Develop export-oriented zones with plug & play infra, market intelligence systems & customized packaging

    Effective implementation of these interventions can position India as a global food processing hub.

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