LTestCodeKey 20211214045101

(BATCH L) Test Code: TC525 TEST 8
GENERAL STUDIES
MAINSTORMING 2021
ANSWER KEY
Q1. (a) Are there any “categorical imperatives” (absolute duties) that a public servant
must follow to be an ethical professional? If so, identify them and explain with
examples. If not, defend your perspective. (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Define categorical imperatives (CI).
2. Body: Writer why there should be categorical imperatives for public servants, elaborate
some CIs.
3. Conclusion: Conclude with some way forward or significance of the CIs in public services.
Categorical imperative is a rule of conduct that is unconditional or absolute for all agents, the validity or
claim of which does not depend on any desire or end. Immanuel Kant argued that the supreme principle
of morality is a standard of rationality that he dubbed as the “Categorical Imperative” (CI). Kant
characterized the CI as an objective, rationally necessary and unconditional principle that we must
always follow despite any natural desires or inclinations we may have to the contrary.
NEED OF CATEGORICAL IMPERATIVES (ABSOLUTE DUTIES) FOR PUBLIC SERVANTS
1. Indian public services are plagued with issues such as lack of transparency, corruption, and
Red tapism, etc. due to deficiency of professional ethics and moral consciousness.
2. Public servants play the role of lynchpin for common people as well as lawmakers. In public
life, they have to deal with human relations involved in every aspect of their professional life.
3. Pressure from political masters, promotions and career growth and genuine interests of the
public at large are the conflicting and competing factors in governance. Such challenges of
conflict of interests can be overcome if there are some categorical imperative to guide the
behavior of public servants.
4. Public servants often find themselves at the crossroads of difficult and contradictory
choices. Some categorical imperatives will help public servants in responding to these ethical
dilemmas by taking best possible decisions.
CATEGORICAL IMPERATIVES FOR PUBLIC SERVANTS
1. Human Being As Ends Not Means: This CI is one of the key formulations of Kantian Ethics
which applies to public servants as well. People, colleagues and team members or anyone else
should not be treated as means to achieve any personal or professional interests. Rather public
servants should provide his/her services to the people considering them as an end in
themselves.
2. For example; It is often observed that public servants often do photo ops while providing
Vaccination facilities, ration kits, or construction of a road. While using people for their own
political or social recognition and popularity, they often forget that getting these services are
rights of the people and duties of the public servants.
3. Seva Parmo Dharma is a key CI for public servants. Bureaucracy in India is still in colonial
hangover and behave like masters rather than civil servants to the people of India.
4. Be it registering an FIR for justice to a poor person or signing of pension files of an old person,
any public service will not be served unless one runs from pillar to post begging every
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CHENNAI |DELHI |BENGALURU|THIRUVANANTHAPURAM
www.shankariasacademy.com | www.iasparliament.com
single official in the public offices. Public servants must realize that their most important duty
is to serve the people of India.
5. Gandhi's Talisman: While dealing with the ethical dilemmas or facing the issues of conflict
of interests, Gandhi's Talisman is an important CI for public servants. This Talisman will help
public servants by rescuing them from the crisis of conscience while performing their duties.
6. Scientific Temper is another important CI for a public servant who is serving a society
suffering from fissures of caste, gender, religion, etc. While dealing with issues such as
communal violence, witchcraft crimes, bab culture (Godman) and social discrimination
against women and various castes.
7. It is expected from a civil servant to act rationally using his scientific temperament. With
the rational application of mind and thoughts in public administration they can become a
fulcrum of social change.
Along with global communities, India also aims to achieve social and economic equality, reduce poverty
and educate every single Indian by the year 2030 as targeted by Sustainable Development Goals. Public
servants are the means through which these goals can be achieved with good governance. Keeping in
mind the role of public servants, the Prime Minister of India recently launched Mission Karmayogi to
create a professionally and ethically sensitive bureaucracy who are well aware of their absolute duties
(categorical imperatives) towards people and the nation.
(b) Human values, professional ethics, and law are three main constituents that direct
human behavior and guide decision making. While professional ethics & laws can be
taught and enforced, inculcation of human values is a challenge. Suggest
implementable ways of teaching and inculcating human values in schools &
universities. (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Give a contextual introduction based on the statement in the question.
2. Body: Explain role of human values, professional ethics and laws to direct human behaviour
and decision making. Explain why professional ethics and laws can be enforced easily while
inculcation of human values is a challenge. List out ways to inculcate human values in
schools and universities.
3. Conclusion: Conclude accordingly.
Human behavior refers to the way humans act and interact. It is a complex interplay of three
components: actions, cognition, and emotions. Similarly, Decision making is the process of making
thoughtful choices. Both of these are guided by various factors such as values, ethics and laws.
HUMAN VALUES, PROFESSIONAL ETHICS AND LAWS DIRECT HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND
DECISION MAKING
The values that are considered as inherent and are at the core of being human are called Human Values.
These include sympathy, empathy, compassion, love and respect, etc. Professional ethics provide rules
on how a person should act towards other people and institutions in a business environment or
workplace. Law is a system of rules created and enforced through social or governmental institutions to
regulate behavior. While playing a role in various capacities, these aspects direct our behavior.
1. For example; Sundarlal Bahuguna, pioneer of Chipko Movement, is epitome of love and
compassion towards nature. Similarly, behaviour and decision making of Baba Amte and
Mother Teresa were guided by their empathy, compassion and respect for human life.
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2. During COVID19 pandemic we have seen and read various heroic stories of decision making
such as running a community kitchen, selling houses to help poor patients, taking up duties of
burial and cremation, etc. These decisions are more often than not guided by Human Values.
3. In our daytoday life as well, respecting elders, helping poors, guiding children, and caring for
pets are usual behaviours that are directed by our human values.
4. Professional Ethics and Laws, clearly defines boundaries in terms of dos and don'ts for an
individual/organisation and thus guiding the decision making.
5. For Example; Ashok Khemka came out as a crusader against corruption, because corruption
is an immoral and an unlawful act under the light of Professional Ethics and Laws.
6. Similarly, professional ethics and laws appreciates adhering to quality service delivery or
fulfilling the agreed contract while decision making. If these two are ignored, such decisions will
lead to disastrous results.
7. For Example, we often get news of the collapse of some bridges due to poor quality material
used or leaking of critical information from strategic institutions, etc.
PROFESSIONAL ETHICS & LAWS CAN BE TAUGHT AND ENFORCED
1. In both, private and public sector, laws, rules and regulations are clearly defined. Any
violation of these laws or rules can lead to punitive actions against violators.
2. Similarly, professional ethics are also explicitly part of the work culture at many places.
Frequent training, evaluation and appreciation can further strengthen such ethics among the
employees of the firm.
3. Both, Professional Ethics and Laws are externally imposed and regulated with immediate
effect of reward or punishment. Clear codification, training and ICE (information,
communication and education) makes it easier to enforce and inculcate professional ethics and
laws.
INCULCATION OF HUMAN VALUES ARE A CHALLENGE

1. Inculcation of human values is a challenge because Human Values are taught and learned
over a long period of time starting from childhood till death.
2. There is no codification of these values and there are no specific institutions or authorities
to implement and inspect these values.
3. In the process of inculcation of human values, various factors such as family, socialisation,
peer group and religion etc play a role. These factors and related experiences are often
diverse and differing for each individual among us.
WAYS OF TEACHING AND INCULCATING HUMAN VALUES IN SCHOOLS & UNIVERSITIES
1. ICE: Information, Communication and Education is a basic way of learning values at school
and universities. This can be done by drafting relevant curriculum, interactive sessions
among students and experts, and by exposure to relevant information.
2. Here exposure to experiences of cause and effect can also play a role; with the help of
movies, guest and motivational speakers, interaction with learned and experienced persons can
help to provide direct learning about benefits of these values and consequences of absence of
them.
3. Role models: Teachers are the role models for the pupils. Learnings taken from the school
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environment are life long lessons. Therefore teachers must be trained and motivated to present
themselves as fountains of human values.
4. East Asian Model: Countries such as South Korea and Japan are known for their human
values such as respect, kindness and compassion. These values are inculcated among kids
from very early stages of their education.
5. School trips to nearby villages, regulated and guided social interactions, participation of
students in management and maintenance of the social environment of the schools and
universities, etc are some of the ways by which various human values are gradually inculcated
over a long period of time.
Empathy, compassion, and Kindness are some of the Human values. Accountability, transparency and
objectivity are some examples of professional ethics. Similarly, there are hundreds of laws that prohibits
various actions such as discrimination, exploitation, etc. These examples suggest that together these
three, make a trinity that will guide in making right choices and maintaining upright behaviour.
Q2. (a) As governance paradigms shift from “results to relationships”, the relevance of
emotive skills for street-level bureaucrats also increases. Identify the relevant
emotional skills that an administrator can leverage for building trusting
relationships with marginalised & weaker sections of society. (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Write context of the question asked.
2. Body: Address the demand of the question with the help of some examples, also write specific
relevant emotional skills.
3. Conclusion: Write significance of the emotive skills for an administrator.
In modern democratic India, mantras such as 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas', 'minimum government,
maximum governance', 'sustainable, inclusive and equitable development', etc are defining the paradigm
shift in the governance. Rather than set and measurable targets, now focus of new governance policies is
on relationships between individual and society, people and nature, and people and governance.
SHIFT FROM “RESULTS TO RELATIONSHIPS” IN GOVERNANCE AND RELEVANCE OF THE
EMOTIVE SKILLS
1. In our rapidly evolving society and democracy, the government has launched various schemes,
programs and campaigns which aim to define new relationships and develop an egalitarian
modern society.
2. Some examples of such programs are; Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, Swachh Bharat
Campaign, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, etc.
3. With these programmes the aim of the governance is to empower women, build stronger and
equal relationships, bring behavioural change and make governance more participative.
4. Similarly, PAHAL scheme does not merely provide assistance for LPG cylinders but also aims
to improve the health of women, control pollution by reducing black carbon and direct
human time and energy towards more productive works. Such multifaceted schemes are
examples of changing governance from results to relationships.
5. These schemes and programs are multipronged in nature, usually addressing social issues
and relationships with marginalised and weaker sections of the society.
6. Since there are many emotional and cultural aspects involved, therefore, to design and
implement such schemes and programs, bureaucrats need various emotive skills.
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RELEVANT EMOTIONAL SKILLS FOR AN ADMINISTRATOR FOR BUILDING TRUSTING

RELATIONSHIPS
Emotional skills are related to Emotional Intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand,
use, and manage your own emotions and emotions of other people.
1. In changing paradigms of the governance, an administrator has to be emotionally intelligent
for building trusting relationships with marginalised and weaker sections of the society.
2. There are various emotional skills that an emotionally intelligent administrator can use to build
relationships, such as; Empathy, Compassion, Tolerance and Persuasion skills, etc.
3. Marginalised and weaker section of the society such as Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes,
Women, Transgender, and minorities often face discrimination in the society. They are also
exploited due to their socio-economic weaknesses.
4. It is because of emotive skills of empathy and compassion along with rationality and respect for
humanity, various policies were designed and are being implemented to uplift status of women,
SCs and STs in India. Startup India, Stand up India, are such other examples.
5. Similarly, to change the centuries old regressive customs of gender roles, caste
descrimination and to strengthen communal harmony in the society, an administrator must
have skills of persuasion. Emotional appeal is part of persuasion skill.
6. Nudging is also an emotive skill that can bring visible changes in society and build trusting
relationships. In the Swachh Bharat campaign, it was nudging skills used on the ground and
through media that brought a massive wave of behavioural change throughout the country.
Street level bureaucrats and civil servants have to deal with laymen on a day to day basis. In a country
like India, which is going through a phase of transition towards a bright future of modern and liberal
society, social skills of on-ground administrators are very important in designing and implementing
governance policies. These skills will help in making Indian society more inclusive, egalitarian and
sustainable through governance.
(b) “Whatever the superior person does, that is followed by others. What standard he or
she demonstrates by action, people follow that.” Civil servants are expected to act
as ethical role models, and what do you think are the values and behavior that a
civil servant should be role-modeling. (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Define Role model and try to write context of the question asked.
2. Body: With the help of examples explain the role played by the role models or the superiors.
Also write values and behavior required for role modelling.
3. Conclusion: Write significance of the role modelling.
Role models are people who influence others by serving as examples. They are often admired by the
people who emulate them. Through their perceived personal qualities, values, behaviors, or
achievements, they can inspire others to strive and develop without providing any direct instruction. The
quote, as mentioned in the Mission Karmayogi Document, is an expression of a role model approach in
administration and society.
WHATEVER THE SUPERIOR PERSON DOES; PEOPLE FOLLOW
1. By superior, here means leader or an authority towards whom people look upto, Gandhiji is one
such example here.
2. Gandhi ji presented himself as a role model to eliminate social evils and political injustice. His
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values such as truth, Ahimsa, and compassion were not only explicit in his words but also
evident from his actions and behaviour.
3. People across the subcontinent started following him by adopting his values and ideas of
Satyagraha, Ahimsa and Swachchhata, as well as his lifestyle based on khadi.
4. Similarly, there can be negative role models as well; at a time there were millions of people
who were admirers of Hitler, they blindly followed his words and actions.
5. From both the above mentioned examples it is clear that whatever superior does, people
follow that. Therefore it becomes a moral responsibility of the influencers to present an ethical
role model of themselves by adopting ethical values and behavior.
CIVIL SERVANTS: ETHICAL ROLE MODEL
Civil Servants in India live a public life, creating impact on a large section of the society they live in. The
Nolan committee on public life prescribed Seven Principle values which must be incorporated in behaviour
for ethical role modelling. These are; Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness,
Honesty, and Leadership.
1. Value based civil services will create a cascading effect, colleagues and subordinates will also
behave objectively and honestly. It will gradually bring transparency and it will eradicate
corruption from administration.
2. Compassionate and empathetic behaviour is expected from civil servants towards common
citizens, colleagues and subordinates. Such value based behaviour will trickle down not only
in administration but also in society.
3. Similarly, behaviour of the civil servants driven by the values such as Probity, Fortitude creates
a massive ripples in an ocean of politically biased bureaucracy and communality charged
society.
4. Civil Servants must make sure that their actions and their words are in sync. Various
campaigns such as Swachch Bharat Abhiyan, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, No Plastic Use, and
Vaccination drive, etc can be greatly successful if civil servants themselves would show people
through their actions and behaviour.
5. Some of the more advanced values and expected behaviours are also enshrined in the recently
drafted vision document of Mission Karmayogi;
Figure: Some of the values expected according to Mission Karmayogi
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SOME EXAMPLES OF CIVIL SERVANTS

Ethical values and value driven behaviour of civil servants make them role models for bureaucracy as
well for society. Some of the examples of such civil servants are as follows;
1. T.N Seshan, former chief election officer, is known as the man who cleaned up the Indian
Electoral System. His behaviour was driven by integrity, fortitude and probity.
2. Our society is suffering from various evils such as gender and caste discrimination, inequality,
communalism, etc. Civil Servants can present themselves as role models by breaking these
walls. For example; at one occassion, District Magistrate of Bihar's Aurangabad reinstated a
Dalit widow as the midday meal cook at a school and also shared the food prepared by
her with the students. By eating food, he proved that she is not a bad omen.
3. Similarly, a youtube video went viral in which a young Sikh police officer, Gangadeep Singh,
is seen single handedly saving a Muslim youth from an angry mob.
Civil Servants are considered as the steel frame of India. Morally and ethically strong steel frame can be
a role model for constructing a stronger, sustainable and inclusive future of India. Gandhi's quote here
justifies the expectations of ethical behaviour from civil servants;
'Be the change you want to see in the world.'
Q3. (a) Do you agree that adding a fourth “E”- ethics to the holy trilogy of efficiency,
economy & effectiveness may lead to a compromise in the bureaucratic performance
values of efficiency, excellence & quality? Why/Why not? (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Define Ethics, and contextualise with the terms mentioned in the question.
2. Body: Write need and significance of Ethics in bureaucracy, also elaborate whether or not it
will compromise the quality of bureaucratic performance.
3. Conclusion: Write some relevant wayforward.
Ethics is a set of standards that society places on itself and which helps guide behaviour, choices and
actions. Whereas, efficiency, economy & effectiveness are the three parameters of Good governance.
These three parameters along with Ethics as fourth one are increasingly being promoted in governance of
the modern democratic countries.
ADDING A FOURTH “E”- ETHICS
1. The Indian bureaucratic system has been suffering from chronic illnesses such as
corruption, complexity, colonial behaviour of authorities, and lack of efficiency, etc.
2. Since the last few years various steps have been taken to reform the administrative system.
These steps include Second ARC Report, RTI Act, digitisation of administration and very
recently Mission Karmayogi, etc.
3. To achieve the greater goal of Good Governance, recommendations of the second ARC report
guides for a fourth “E”- ethics to the holy trilogy of efficiency, economy & effectiveness.
4. Ethics will enhance components of probity, objectivity, neutrality and compassion in
administration. With probity comes a sense of duty among civil servants which will reduce
delays and corruption and improve efficiency of the performance.
5. Similarly, integrity and neutrality will help bureaucrats to take decisions objectively and
utilize public money effectively. It will result in improving the excellence and quality of the
public services.
6. With stronger ethical values, bureaucrats will not succumb to political pressure and will act in
public interests at large.
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ETHICS MAY LEAD TO A COMPROMISE IN THE BUREAUCRATIC PERFORMANCE VALUES OF

EFFICIENCY, EXCELLENCE & QUALITY?
There are apprehensions among people as well as among proponents of Weberian Bureaucracy, who
think that application of ethics can compromise efficiency, excellence and quality of bureaucratic
performance. Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public administration the sort of moral and
ethical norms we apply to matters of personal conscience.
1. Application of ethics in bureaucracy often leads to ethical dilemmas to make difficult choices.
Ethical dilemmas often put civil servants on the crossroads of difficult choices. Sometimes,
we know exactly what is right and what is wrong, but disastrous consequences of right decision
are also clear. From the perspective of ethics, decision making in such a situation could be very
challenging.
2. Subjectivity of ethics itself is a big question in its application in bureaucracy. One decision
which can be more ethical than another for a person, it may not be the best ethical decision for
another individual.
3. In COVID19 pandemic there were several such occasions where two different sets of
moralities collided with one another. Lockdown vs Massive poverty and hunger, illegal
industrial units supplying oxygen to help during shortages of oxygen, people flouting the
COVID protocol to save their COVID positive loved ones from falling into depression and mental
breakdown, etc.
4. Dilemmas, risk of personal losses, possibilities of disastrous outcomes often lead to inactivity
induced by Ethics in administration. Cumulatively affecting efficiency and quality of
bureaucratic performance.
WAYFORWARD
1. Despite the apprehensions, Ethics is proving to be complementary and not contradictory
for efficient performance of public services.
2. Indian bureaucracy is gradually transforming into a more people centric, transparent and
accountable bureaucracy with the twin combination of e-governance and ethics in
administration.
3. Ethics may not immediately provide efficiency and excellency, but it is a form of delayed
gratitude. It is one of the ‘means' to achieve a larger vision and mission of just and egalitarian
society where everyone has access to services and resources.
4. Weberian bureaucracy might be perfect for olden times, but changing times need changing
theories.
5. We are increasingly moving towards a higher pedestal of civilisation, here Ethics can be a
guiding light for more efficient and effective public administration.
(b) Do you think values such as “tyaga” (renunciation), “seva” (service), daanam
(charity), damah (restrain) that are espoused in traditional Indian wisdom have
relevance for modern-day public servants? Why/Why not? (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Give a contextual introduction based on the question.
2. Body: Highlight the importance of all four key words and explain with examples how they are
relevant to public servants.
3. Conclusion: Conclude accordingly.
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We are blessed to have inherited a treasure of wisdom from the vast ocean of ancient Indian Philosophy.
Source of Indian philosophy and values is not only in the books and tales of Vedas and Bhagavad Gita
but also in all the major religions of the Indian soil; Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. “Tyaga”
(renunciation), “seva” (service), "daanam" (charity), and "damah" (restrain) are some of the values
espoused in the traditional Indian wisdom.
“TYAGA” (RENUNCIATION)
1. Tyaga is an ethical concept in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism that means "sacrifice,
giving up in generosity, forsaking, resigning" anything of value as well as "renunciation".
2. Tyaga is not physical renunciation of the world, it means "giving up with generosity what
one could probably have kept".
3. Tyaga or abandonment also refers to giving up all anxieties for enjoying the fruits of
actions. It is a subjective renunciation of selfishness and desire.
“SEVA” (SERVICE)
1. Seva, in Hinduism and Sikhism, is a selfless service that is performed without any
expectation of result or award for performing it.
2. In Hinduism, it is also known as karma yoga, as described in the holy scripture the Bhagavad
Gita.
3. Seva in Sikhism takes three forms: tan (physical service, i.e. manual labour), man (mental
service, such as studying to help others), and dhan (material service, including financial
support).
"DAANAM" (CHARITY)
1. Daanam is a Sanskrit and Pali word that connotes the virtue of generosity, charity or
giving of alms in Indian philosophies.
2. In Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, daanam is the practice of cultivating
generosity. It can take the form of giving to an individual in distress or need.
3. Buddhists believe that giving without seeking anything in return reduces the acquisitive
impulses that ultimately lead to continued suffering from egotism.
"DAMAH" (RESTRAIN)
1. Damah in Hinduism is equivalent to temperance. It connotes the concepts of self-control and
self-restraint.
2. According to satsampad, self-restraint (dama) is one of the six cardinal virtues.
3. Brihadaranyaka Upanishad states that three characteristics of a good, developed person are
self-restraint (damah), compassion or love for all sentient life (daya), and charity (dāna).
TYAGA, SEVA, DAANAM AND DAMAH: RELEVANCE FOR MODERN DAY PUBLIC SERVANTS
In India, there is widespread poverty, inequality and various social evils, which is in need of selfless
public servants. Bureaucracy is still suffering from colonial syndrome, civil servants behave like masters.
There is widespread corruption, red tapism, and vested interests involved in public services. In such
situations, Tyaga, Seva, Daanam and Damah provide a good holistic solution to many of the problems in
bureaucracy.
1. Through practice of tyaga infusing discipline in daily activities, the momentary anxiety to
enjoy fruits of actions can be overcome. Public servants will bravely and courageously take
decisions in larger public interests irrespective of outcomes for themselves.
2. In modern days, the concept of Seva has been taken to volunteering for the greater good, such
as in disaster relief, Pandemic and other major incidents. Similarly for civil servants as well,
Seva Parmo Dharma (Service is the biggest duty.).
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3. Daanam can take the form of public projects that empower and help many. This aims at
larger projects such as building a rest house, school, drinking water or irrigation well, planting
trees, and building care facilities among others. For example; Armstrong Pame constructed a
road for villagers of Manipur with the help of crowdfunding, a modern way of Daanam for
a cause.
4. Lastly, self-restraint (dama) can help civil servants in resolving the conflict of interests. It
will infuse objectivity and selflessness in decision making.
Tyaga, Seva, Daanam And Damah all such values help in achieving the goal of Nishkam Karma which is
a central message of Bhagavad Gita. Recently launched Mission Karmayogi also aims to establish a
people-friendly, selfless, compassionate bureaucracy, whose main task will be to Seva of the Nation.
Q4. (a) Explain Mahatma Gandhi’s eleven vows and their relevance to public service
ethics. (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Write relevance of Gandhi and his thoughts .
2. Body: Enlist Gandhi’s Eleven vows and comment on their relevance to public services with
the help of examples.
3. Conclusion: Conclude with significance of these vows in public services.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was not only a leader of the people of India in the freedom struggle, but
also a social and political ethicist. His philosophies and ideas for a better society are timeless and
relevant for people as well as civil servants. His principles in the form of seven sins, and eleven vows
continue to guide us for living a better life.
THE ELEVEN VOWS AND THEIR RELEVANCE
1. Ahimsa ( Nonviolence ): Ahimsa consists in not only forbearing from physical violence. In
order to achieve non-violence it is necessary to remove from the mind all hatred, all
jealousy and all desire to harm even those who harm us. It also includes extending love to all.
By staying non violent Public servants can manage their emotions as well as the emotions
of the other people whom they are serving. There were instances where violence against women,
people of certain castes and religions were reported as the excesses of the public servants.
2. Satya ( Truth ): We are living in an era where culture of post truth is prevalent in politics and
societies across the globe, public services being no exception. It is imperative for servants to
use rational minds and make decisions based on truth and factual information. There are
instances where someone was arrested on mere allegation of the crime and they stood jailed as
undertrail for years only to come out as innocent after a decade.
3. Asteya ( Non Stealing ): Mere stealing someone else’s material property is not all, it is also a
theft to possess anything more than one's minimum requirement. Gandhiji believed that
Nature provides just enough, and no more, for our daily needs. Hence, if you are consuming
more than what is needed, it is stealing from someone else due rights. Public servants must
make sure that rights, resources and information about people are safe at their hands and
not stolen and exploited by public servants. It includes judicious utilization of public money,
no to corruption and bribes, safety and security individuals and their private information,
etc.
4. Brahmacharya ( Celibacy ): 'Brahmacharya' really means 'Moving towards, Brahma' that is,
towards truth. For such a person, a control over all senses is necessary, it includes chastity as
well. Issues of crime against women, posting obscene pictures and cyber bullying of women,
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rape threates, molestations, etc are increasing day by day. Public servants make sure that in
their personal as well as professional life, they are able to provide a safe environment to
women and vulnerable genders around them.
5. Asangraha ( Non-possession ): According to an Oxfam report Top one percent of the global
population is holding half of the world's wealth. while the bottom 50%, the majority of the
population, owns a mere 2.8%. Non-possession and Gandhi’s Trusteeship model propunds
for ownership of minimum wealth and resources. Greed for more leads to corruption,
conflict of interest and lobbying in public services which are harmful for larger public
interests.
6. Sharirshrama ( Bread labour ): Gandhiji believed that everyone must do some physical
labour for a few hours every day. Economic and social differences in society can be mitigated
in this way. He made it a rule that all domestic chores should be performed by the Ashramites
themselves, including a reformed method of scavenging and swachhta. If public servants take
out some time to do physical labour every now and then, it will reduce the social gap
between common people and civil servants, people will feel more connected with civil servants
and a relationship of trust will develop.
7. Aswada ( Control of the palate ): According to Gandhiji, Palate being one of the senses, its
control is a part of Sadhana of the pilgrim to Truth. Food is meant only to sustain the body
for the service of others. So, to indulge the taste by a variety of culinary delicacies was
against the spirit of Asvada. Indulgence in food is often the cause of many lifestyle diseases
such as obesity, cholesterol and increasing number of deaths due to heart attack, etc. For a
public servant, control of the palate is not only good for a healthy life and service, but also
sets an example for society to have a modest lifestyle.
8. Sarvatra Bhayavarjana ( Fearlessness ): People often remain silent against crimes and
injustice due to fear of getting involved in unnecessary complications. For public servants fear
of political masters, transfers, demotions, etc. stops them from taking bold and right
decisions. We have examples of T.N. Seshan and Ashoke Khemka who proved the importance
of fortitude and fearlessness in public services while bringing reforms and fighting corruption.
9. Sarva Dharma Samantva ( Equality of all religions): Communities in India and around the
globe are going thorough a worst ever phase of communalisation, radicalisation and terrorism
among various religious communities. To save our societies from hatred and extremism, leaders
have to play an extraordinary role. Being leaders in their public offices as well societies, public
servants must treat all religions equally without favour or fear. It will create a constructive
cascading impact on the society as a whole.
10. Swadeshi ( Use locally made goods ): One who practices Swadeshi, he serves the world best
by first serving his neighbour. This is Swadeshi, a principle which is broken when one
professes to serve those who are more remote in preference to those who are near. Following
this principle, one must as far as possible purchase one's requirements locally and not buy
things imported from foreign lands, which can easily be manufactured in the country.
Public servants must practice Swadeshi in letter and spirit through their selfless services. There
is no place for self interest in Swadeshi, which enjoins the sacrifice of oneself for the
family, of the family for the village, of the village for the country, and of the country for
humanity.
11. Sparshbhavana ( Remove untouchability ): Untouchability, which has taken such a deep root
in Hinduism, is altogether irreligious. Its removal has therefore been treated as an
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independent principle. Public servants often come across the cases of intercaste marriages,
honor killings, social discrimination based on caste and gender, etc. Discriminations at
school, at temples, at workplace, etc with respect to caste, gender or religion all are forms of
untouchability. A Public servant must make sure that no one including himself does not
practice untouchability in any form.
People look upto public servants as role models and expect model behavior from them. To bring change in
a society ridden with social evils and to realize the goals of inclusive societies with gender and social
equalities, public servants must inculcate eleven vows of Gandhi in their public as well as personal lives.
(b) “Bureaucracy is generally considered to be impersonal, insensitive and by and large

they conduct their business without sympathy or enthusiasm. The challenge is to
make the bureaucracy responsive and responsible.” Discuss the role of citizens
charters as a tool for making bureaucracy responsive and responsible. (150 words,
10 marks)
1. Introduction: Write context of the question with the help of some recent examples.
2. Body: Writer challenges in making bureaucracy responsive. In the second part of the body
comment on the role of citizen charter.
3. Conclusion: Conclude with some wayforward suggesting other ways to make bureaucracy
responsible and responsive.
Recently, a video clip went viral in which an IAS officer was seen slapping a man and throwing away his
mobile phone for allegedly flouting lockdown norms, whereas the man was seen pleading that he is going
to buy medicine. Similarly, during the Kisan protest, another video surfaced in which a young district
collector is seen as issuing orders to break the heads of the farmers if they came on the prohibited route.
Similarly, there are many instances and evidences which prove that India Bureaucracy is impersonal,
insensitive and by and large they conduct their business without sympathy or enthusiasm.
CHALLENGES IN MAKING BUREAUCRACY RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE
1. Evils such as corruption, red tapism and absenteeism have been plaguing bureaucracy and
public offices since ages. It leads to delays and lack of transparency in public service delivery.
2. Colonial hangover and outdated system of administration is another major challenge in
bureaucratic reforms. Rather than public servants, bureaucrats behave as masters to the
people of India.
3. Lack of information dissemination and lack of awareness creates problems for both
bureaucracy as well as people. There is a gap between people and bureaucrats leading to
demand and supply mismatch of timely delivery of services.
4. Political pressure is another giant roadblock in the efficient functioning of the bureaucracy in
India. It results in lobbying, inactivity and delays affecting the responsiveness and
responsibility of administration.
CITIZEN CHARTER
Citizen’s Charter is a document of commitments made by a Government organization to the citizens in
respect of the services being provided to them. A good Citizen’s Charter should have the following
components :
1. Vision and Mission Statement of the Organisation.
2. Details of Business transacted by the Organisation.
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3. Details of ‘Citizens’ or ‘Clients’.

4. Statement of services including standards, quality, time frame etc. provided and how/ where to
get the services.
5. Details of Grievance Redress Mechanism and how to access it.
6. Expectations from the ‘Citizens’ or ‘Clients.
7. Additional commitments such as compensation in the event of failure of service delivery.
ROLE OF CITIZENS CHARTERS AS A TOOL FOR MAKING BUREAUCRACY RESPONSIVE AND
RESPONSIBLE
The Government of India, in its efforts to provide more responsive and citizen-friendly governance
coordinates the efforts to formulate and operationalise Citizens' Charters with various Central
Government Ministries/ Departments/ Organisations.
1. With a view to ensure effective implementation of Citizens' Charter, Nodal Officers have
been appointed in the concerned Central Government Ministries/ Departments/ Organisations.
2. Citizen charter ensures commitments of the public office towards standard, quality and time
frame of service delivery, grievance redressal mechanism, transparency and accountability.
3. By public display of commitments in the form of Citizen Charter, there is spread of awareness
and information among the people about the type of services, fee charges, time required and
responsible authorities for the services.
4. The objective of Charter exercise is to build bridges between citizens and administration and
to streamline administration in tune with the needs of citizens.
5. It creates transparency and accountability among public servants and reduces time and cost
of people to avail public services.
6. Citizen charter acts as a link between people and bureaucracy, making administration a two
way process. Hence it infuses responsiveness and responsibility among public servants.
WAY FORWARD
1. Citizen Charters, if appropriately conceived and carried out, can enthuse and enable
organizations to tune their planning, policy and performance to the needs and concerns of
citizens and all the other stakeholders.
2. These strategies must incorporate elements such as; clarity at every level about the objectives
and services, designing and delivery of Charters as a live instrument of citizen-administration
interface, and mechanisms for Charter monitoring, Charter evaluation and Charter review to
acknowledge effectiveness of the charter.
3. Other than Citizen Charters, digitalisation or e-governance, mass awareness and digital
literacy of the citizens, single window clearance and reduced paperwork can make
bureaucracy more responsive and responsible. Mission Karmyogi is also an initiative to create
people centrice bureaucracy in India.
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Q5. (a) There has been a steady erosion of values-based politics in the country. Do
you think the constitution of Ethics Committees in Parliament & State Legislatures
can be a viable instrument for restoring & promoting values-based politics? Suggest
some practical measures for arresting the decline of moral values in public life. (150
words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Write context of the question asked.
2. Body: Elaborate on erosion of values in politics. Write role of ethics committees. Suggest some
other measures to inculcate values in politics of the country.
3. Conclusion: Write significance of value based politics.
According to ADR report, there are more than 43% of the elected members in the 17th Loksabha who are
facing criminal charges as serious as Rape and Murder. Similarly, many laws are being passed without
thorough debate and discussion on it. There are various examples which prove that there is a steady
erosion of democratic and ethical values in politics of the country.
STEADY EROSION OF VALUES IN POLITICS
1. Divisive politics has become a new normal in India. Politicians are dividing people on the basis
of religion, caste and language for their own political ambitions.
2. Communal politics is very much visible from daily news headlines; Mandir-Masjid and
Shamshan-Qabristan are the topics of political debates. Politicians do not shy away from
publicly endorsing violent views against minority communities in India.
3. Appeasement and populism has become central to political policy making. Banning of non veg
food stalls on the streets of Ahmedabad is one such recent example along with various other
steps such as anti conversion laws and Love Jihad Act, etc.
4. Misogynist speeches and comments: Political leaders often express their patriarchal views by
publically attacking women with derogatory comments. Views such as 'women themselves are
responsible for the rape because of their dressing or the time they are leaving home' are some of
the examples which politicians casually express in their speeches.
5. Unholy nexus of criminals and lawmakers is one of the important reasons for erosion of
values in politics. Garlanding of murderes and defending criminals who are charged with
crimes such as rape shows the degradation of values in politics.
6. Corruption, horse trading, lobbying are no more hidden things. It includes bypassing of the
rules and laws, using loopholes to avoid audit and accountability, and weakening of the
institutions such as judiciary and regulatory bodies, etc.
CONSTITUTION OF ETHICS COMMITTEES
1. The Parliament is a sanctum sanctorum for political law makers and representatives must
adhere to values based politics. Lawmakers' unparliamentary language and behaviour must not
go unnoticed.
2. Constitution of ethics committees in parliament and state legislature can create an impact by
restoring values to some extent.
3. They can create moral pressure by shaming and taking punitive actions in extreme cases.
Naming and shaming by condemnation can have a nudging effect on all other levels of politics
in and outside houses.
4. Actions and working of these committees can set a precedence for politics at other levels of
governance and public relations.
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5. By establishing these committees, politicians can be pushed for effective and efficient
decision making rather than populism and appeasement politics.
6. Committees can help in ensuring rationality and quality of the political debates in the house
for scientific and citizen centric need based policy making.
MERE COMMITTEES IN HOUSE NOT SUFFICIENT
There is a need to bring a holistic change in politics of India, within and outside the houses of the
government. These changes can be brought one three fronts:
1. For Politicians: Electoral reforms and strengthening of institutions such as Election
Commission can help in restoring value based politics. Sensitisation of politicians regarding the
need and importance of value based politics can also change their political behaviour.
2. For People: ICE campaigns (information, communication and education) can inculcate
responsible voting behaviour. People will try to know their leaders based on ethical and
democratic values, before electing them. Publicity of nomination papers and other substantial
details about political leaders should be in public domain available to the masses.
3. Role of media: It is an important pillar of democracy, capable of changing behaviour of people
as well as politicians. Media should do unbiased reporting, organise debates on real issues of
governance, health, employment, education, economy and agriculture, etc. Propaganda and
paid news often leads to further degradation of values in politics.
According to Gandhiji, 'Politics without principles' is one of the seven greatest sins in public life. This sin
is shamelessly being committed at all the levels of politics in India, from local governance to the
Parliament. All the reforms, measures, rules and laws will be successful in restoring values and
principles in politics only if people change their behaviour. Any business runs on the principle of demand
and supply, therefore demand of value based politics by the people of India can definitely change the
supply nature of politics in the country.
(b) Explain the meaning of “Quality” in the context of public service delivery. Elaborate
on the parameters that can be used for assessing the quality of delivery of essential
services. (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Write context of the quality of public services.
2. Body: Explain meaning of the quality of services, elaborate parameters of assessing it.
3. Conclusion: Significance of the quality in public services.
People often avoid going to public offices, hospitals and schools due to poor quality and excessive
procedural complexities, corruption and cost involved. They often resort to taking help of agents or bribing
public servants to get their work done quickly. Such a situation of the public offices and public services
points towards the quality of services being provided by the public servants.
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'QUALITY' OF PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY

Quality of the public services depends on various aspects such as; cost, time, behaviour of the public
servants, ease of services, transparency and responsiveness, etc. Any public service can be termed as
good if it satisfies the needs of the citizens in a hassle free manner.
Quality of the services is a key aspect of good governance, therefore it is essential to assess these
services on various parameters.
PARAMETERS TO ASSESS QUALITY OF DELIVERY OF ESSENTIAL SERVICES
1. Availability: It is the most important parameter to assess the delivery of essential services. At
many places, there are no public hospitals, even if hospitals are there, there is no doctor or
necessary infrastructure available. Similarly, schools, police stations, public service offices are
also suffering from absenteeism and non availability of the services.
2. Accessibility: This is the second parameter, how accessible are essential services to common
people? More often than not, hospitals are available in many areas, but health services are not
accessible due to absence of necessary documents, lack of information and communication, or
lack of cooperation by the public servants. Same is the case with police stations and public
service offices, where services are available but not accessible due to one or the other reasons
mentioned above.
3. Affordability: Huge portion of the population who are dependent on government for essential
services such as health and education are poor and daily wage earners. Affordability of the
services include cost of services, wage loss due to tami taken to avail services, travel and other
shoe leather costs, etc. Many people do not go to hospital when they fall sick, because an
appointment at government OPD costs a day for a daily wage earner.
WHAT IS BEING DONE TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF THE DELIVERY OF THE PUBLIC
SERVICES?
All the three parameters of the quality of the delivery of the services are cause and effect for the
efficiency of the services. Efficient delivery of the essential public services can have an impact on all the
aspects of the lives of the citizens; health, employment and standard of life. Among many other steps,
some of the following are example of measures taken to improve quality of delivery of essential services;
1. E-governance is the most important way to improve the quality of delivery of essential
services. Faceless transactions of public services reduce corruption, time and errors. It
improves transparency and overall efficiency of the services delivery. For example; Online
Registration System (ORS) is a web based framework to link various hospitals across the
country for Aadhaar based online registration and appointment system where counter based
OPD system has been digitized. Now one can take appointments digitally without wasting time
and cost waiting in lines at the hospital.
2. Citizen Charter and RTI makes sure that essential services are delivered in a time bound
manner through an efficient and affordable system. These instruments are also successful in
making delivery of services transparent.
3. Recently, the government has launched the SMART policing index where SMART stands for
Strict and Sensitive, Modern and Mobile, Alert and Accountable, Reliable and Responsive,
Techno-savvy and Trained. Similar initiatives can be launched for other public services as well
to make them more efficient.
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With all the reforms and policy measures, an ethical factor in public services can further enhance quality
of delivery of essential services. Ethical consciousness will infuse a sense of accountability, probity and
honesty towards duty. Delivery of quality services is necessary to bring poor and marginalized sections
of the society into the mainstream of growth and development. It is also an essential part of the mantra of
minimum government and maximum governance.
Q6. Explain the following quotes:

A) “A just society is that society in which an ascending sense of reverence and descending sense
of contempt is dissolved into the creation of a compassionate society.” B R Ambedkar (150
words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Provide context of the given quote by writing about Dr. Ambedkar.
2. Body: Elaborate on sense reverence and contempt in the society. Write the significance of
dissolving the two.
3. Conclusion: Conclude by writing significance Dr. Ambedkar’s views.
Dr. B R Ambedkar is the father of Indian constitution and social justice in India. He has suffered caste
based discrimination throughout his life and thus eradicating this evil became purpose of his life.
‘Annihilation of caste’ is Dr. Ambedkar's master piece in which he unequivocally expressed his views and
suggested ways to establish a just and egalitarian society.
SENSE OF REVERENCE AND SENSE OF CONTEMPT IN INDIAN SOCIETY
1. Similar to other societies of the world, caste and tribe systems in India are deeply rooted in all
the aspects of social life. Problem specific to the Indian caste system is of purity and
pollution attached with the castes.
2. This purity and pollution is associated with the sense of reverence and contempt, where
reverence implies honor, dignity and high regards for one and contempt implies how
worthless or beneath consideration one person is.
3. Caste system in India divides communities into four main categories; Shudras, Vaishyas,
Kshatriyas, and Brahmins.
4. So called Shudras are considered as the lowest category in terms of purity and reverence. This
sense of reverence ascends with the increasing level of caste towards Brahmins who are
most revered and honored among the four categories.
5. Similarly, in terms of pollution or contempt, shudras are considered as so called untouchables
and this pollution or contempt decreases through Vaishyas, Kshatriyas and becomes null
when there comes the Brahmin caste.
A JUST SOCIETY: DISSOLUTION OF REVERENCE AND CONTEMPT TO CREATE COMPASSION

1. In reality, no human being is completely pure or polluted. Since 'to err is human', considering
someone as revered by birth or worthless by birth is neither humane nor just.
2. In present times, this quote not only implies to caste system, but also relevant for various
kinds of discrimination and alienation.
3. There is an increasing feeling of contempt towards women and non normative genders
whereas men are revered and honored.
4. Similarly, Hyper nationalism and jingoism is alienating certain minorities and there is
increasing sense of xenophobia across the world.
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5. There is also visible evidence of reverence and contempt based on religion and racial
identities. Discrimination against blacks by whites, discrimination with north eastern people
in India, communal tensions between religious minorities and majority communities are some
of the examples of prevalent forms of reverence and contempt.
6. When we will consider each other as equals, without reverence and contempt to anyone, there
will be empathy and compassion for each other irrespective of their identities.
7. Hence the quote implies that if we embrace the perfect imperfections of every individual in our
society, then there will be dissolution of the sense of reverence and contempt.
8. This dissolution will create a just and compassionate society where no one is on the highest
pedestal of honor and no one is worthless, especially due to the factors on which human beings
do not have any control such as birth.
Caste system has already caused a huge damage to fabric of Indian society. There are various other
forms of discrimination as well which in which one considers oneself superior to others. We aim to
establish an egalitarian society where there is no discrimination based on indetities of the individual. For
such a society to established, Dr. Ambedkar's views are timeless anecdotes to seek guidance from.
B) “It is wrong to use immoral means to attain moral ends [and] it is just as wrong, or
even more so, to use moral means to preserve immoral ends.” Martin Luther King
Jr. (150 words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Write context of means vs ends.
2. Body: Explain meaning of the quote and elaborate two parts of the quote with the help of
examples.
3. Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion in context of the question.
The debate between ends and means is never ending between ethicists as well as common people. On
one end there is Machiavelli who believes that ‘ends justify means’ and one the other end there is Gandhi
who stresses upon right choices of means irrespective of ends. Given quote explains the relative morality
of means and ends from MLK's (Martin Luther King Jr.) perspective.
MEANING OF THE QUOTE

The beginning of the statement refers to the idea of using violence or wrong means to get the result
that one feels as rightful. The second part of this statement refers to doing the right thing to ensure
that an injustice will prevail. Following examples can well illustrate the meaning of the above
mentioned quote.
IMMORAL MEANS TO ATTAIN MORAL ENDS
1. Recently, an Army General justified using the Human shield to avoid escalation of the
violence and save many lives. He said that the man was tied in front of the Jeep to scare
other militants and avoid faceoff. It is an inhumane and immoral act to gain an ethical end of
no violence.
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2. Afghanistan, Kurds and similar other communities across the world are using violence and
path of terrorism to win their right to self determination. Their claim of self determination
is indeed a moral end, but they are using immoral means to achieve it.
3. We often watch and read about the incidences of smuggling of refugees to save them from
war and economic crisis. Saving human lives is the highest form of moral action, but
smuggling is illegal and unethical.
4. There are various examples of repressive actions by legitimate governments to establish peace
and security in their countries or states. Curbing freedom of speech, use of violence against
protesting civilians, shutting down of the internet, etc. are some of the immoral means being
used to establish peace and order in various regions across the country.
5. Recently, the killing of 14 civilians in a botched military operation in Nagaland has led to fresh
calls for repealing The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), a stringent law that
allows the armed forces to use maximum force in an area declared as ‘disturbed’ to establish
law and order.
MORAL MEANS TO PRESERVE IMMORAL ENDS
Above examples prove that it is wrong to use immoral means to achieve immoral ends. But what is
worse is the use of moral means to achieve immoral ends.
1. Hitler was a leader of the people, he formed a legitimate government and enacted laws. He
ordered the killing of Jews under the sanction of the laws. Obeying the law is moral but the
intended result, that is killing of Jews, was immoral.
2. Similarly, Israeli lawmakers are enacting laws and their judiciary is passing judgments that
make it legal and ethical to occupy the houses and lands of the people of Palestine.
3. Debt diplomacy of China is morally right. They are providing loans to developing and least
developed countries for economic growth. But these loans are to economically trap these
countries to accept hegemony and supremacy of China in their internal, sovereign and strategic
matters.
4. Tax avoidance through loopholes in the laws, shell companies, and round tripping of money
are some of the ethically and legally justified means to accumulate unproportionate wealth.
5. Surrogate advertising is also an example where moral means of advertising water or pan
masala is used to actually advertise prohibited products.
Battle of means versus ends often tests one's integrity and wisdom. In such situations Aristotle's
practical wisdom can guide us which says, "wisdom is the ability not only to know the means to certain
desired ends, but also to know what ends are desirable". Actions based on desired means and desired
ends must be questioned in one's own court of conscience.
C) “Every individual…neither intends to promote the public interest nor knows how
much he is promoting it…he intends only his own security.” Adam Smith. (150
words, 10 marks)
1. Introduction: Briefly introduce Adam Smith.
2. Body: Explain meaning of the quote with examples. Comment on the ethical aspect of the
quote.
3. Conclusion: Write a relevant conclusion.
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Adam Smith is the Godfather of neo-classical economics and especially of finance. In 1776 this Scottish
economist and philosopher wrote the Wealth of Nations, which is widely seen as the birth of modern
economics. His views are often quoted selectively to justify capitalist ethics and market economy.
MEANING OF THE QUOTE
1. This quotation is used to illustrate the self-centeredness of men and thereby to motivate the
market as the best allocation mechanism.
2. One more similar quote of Adam Smith can better explain the above mentioned quote;
3. “It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our
dinner, but from their regard to their own self-interest. We address ourselves not to their
humanity but to their self-love, and never talk to them of our own necessities, but of their
advantages.” Everyone is working for their own security, hence cumulatively they promote
public interest without knowing or in an unintended way.
4. Such quotations also explain capitalist theory of wealth generation and development, that
intentions of self security and interest brings competition and innovation which leads to
market growth and ultimately reduction in poverty and improvement in standard of life
through employment generation.
5. In present times as well, we see campaigns and works for peace and protection of the
environment etc. These are the borderless issues threatening everyone's security of the
present and the future.
6. For our own security and security of our own future we promote agendas such as Sustainable
and Inclusive Development.
NOTHING WRONG IN BEING SELFISH

There is a story often associated with Abraham Lincoln. Once the young man Abraham was
traveling, he saw a pig hopelessly stuck in mud and it was sure that he would die of thirst or
starvation if not rescued. The scene was causing pain to Abraham Lincoln and he was not able to
get the pig out of his head. So he quickly went back and rescued the pig without caring about the
damage done to his new suit. He justified his action as selfish by saying that he had gone back to
free the pig only to take a pain out of his mind
SELF INTERESTS AND SECURITY VS GREED

1. It is ethically justified to work for one's own interests and security without harming and
exploiting others. But quotes of Adam Smith are often misused to justify greed of the
capitalist giants.
2. Such greed has given birth to evils such as global warming and climate change, poverty and
hunger, stark economic inequalities, etc.
3. All the religions and philosophies justify satisfaction of one's own needs and security, but they
also cautioned against greed in disguise of fair competition for achieving the two.
It is worth noting that security includes peace and happiness. Hence, Adam Smith's quote can be more
broadly understood from a human and ethical perspective with his one more quote. He writes in the
Theory of Moral Sentiments: “How selfish soever man may be supposed, there are evidently some
principles in his nature, which interest him in the fortune of others, and render their happiness necessary
to him, though he derives nothing from it, except the pleasure of seeing it.”
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SECTION ‘B’
Q7. The State-owned Government Shipping Corporation’s office recently went online.
All employees were networked. They had access to the internet and were now
capable of communicating through e-mail and office chat board. The office
communication became efficient and smooth but going online also had a negative
fallout. Occasionally employees used the office network to share jokes that they
downloaded from the internet. And, you recently received several such jokes in your
mail and also saw them on the office chat board. These jokes all had a caricature of
a particular ethnic/caste group or women as a punch line. You found the content
insensitive, misogynistic, and at times vulgar. With time more than official content,
it was this “entertainment” content that was circulating. One day you noticed some
of your colleagues harass another colleague for his sexuality and sexual preferences.
As the day went on, the harassment became intense as most of the office joined in.
As a sensitive professional, you had enough of it and took the matter up with the
Director, who realised the gravity of the situation and requested you to plan an
intervention for sensitising the office staff, to which you willingly agreed.
1. While planning the intervention what are the basic issues that you need to address and
since you are dealing with a sensitive issue what will be your delivery strategy?
2. What do you think are the root causes for the existence of such prejudiced mindsets even
among the educated in the country? Explain (250 words, 20 marks)
During COVID19 pandemic, we have seen various video recordings of indisciplined behaviour in
professional virtual meetings or virtual school classes. Jokes on women as weaker gender, questioning
her intellectual caliber were often forwarded in school and office chat groups. The given case study is
picturising the realistic scenario at the workplace. In this case, access to the internet has been
provided to increase the efficiency of the employees and make communication smoother. With internet
access, the said purpose is being achieved but there are some negative outcomes as well. Fellows are
forwarding insensitive, misogynistic and at times vulgar content for entertainment. After an incident of
harassment of a colleague over his sexuality and sexual preferences, I took up the matter to the
Director and he asked me to draft a plan of intervention.
Question 1: While planning the intervention what are the basic issues that you need to address
and since you are dealing with a sensitive issue what will be your delivery strategy?
THE BASIC ISSUES THAT I NEED TO ADDRESS
In the given case, issues are multifaceted relating to behaviour of the employees, regulations by the
administration and overall work culture. Some of the explicit issues are;
1. Bullying and Harassment of a colleague: A colleague is being harassed based on his sexuality
and preferences. Such harassment is neither ethically or legally valid. It is a violation of his/her
fundamental rights to life and to human dignity.
2. Misogyny and vulgar content: Such behaviour will alienate women and other vulnerable
genders. Respecting fellows and use of formal language are important aspects of professional
ethics.
3. Informal communication on workplace network: Internet services are provided for official
usage and enhance productivity. Misuse of workplace facilities is counted as unethical
behaviour.
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4. Lack of professional Ethics: Misuse of internet, informal vulgar communication, harassment

and misogyny all these issues are pointing towards a larger issue of lack of professional ethics.
STRATEGY TO RESOLVE THESE ISSUES
Since the director asked me to draft a plan to sensitize office staff, I will make a multipronged strategy
directed towards the employees as well as the employer.
1. Drafting a set of rules for usage of the workplace network and a policy against
harassment at workplace, both physical and virtual. I will request our director to draft a
policy with expert opinion on these two issues. Usage of the internet can be regulated through
clearly defined rules and regulations. Similarly, harassment of co-workers in any form can be
made a punitive action through a clear policy formulation.
2. General meeting to convey rules and penalties: Once detailed and clearly drafted policies are
put in place, a general meeting could be conducted to convey these newly drafted rules and
expected behaviour to all the employees. Detailed guidelines, general meetings and regulated
usage of the internet can help in inculcating professional ethics.
3. Sensitization drives through training sessions: Regular training sessions, audio-visual
demonstration, glass breaking sessions can help in sensitizing employees about the
repercussions of their behaviour. In glass breaking meetups, colleagues join for a get together
and share their bitter experiences and grievances towards each other and openly embrace each
other to forgive and forget and start again with a better behaviour.
4. Using creative and strategic solutions: Chatbots can be activated on office chatting boards.
These ‘bots’ automatically cancel abusive, vulgar and informal communication. It can also issue
warnings to violators and issue pre-coded instructions for formal communication. Similarly,
rewarding good employee behaviour through gifts or shout-outs in regular review meetings will
encourage formal behaviour.
5. Formation of internal complaint committee and Options of anonymous reporting by
sharing screenshots and relevant evidence. Exploitation and harassment will not stop if victims
do not raise their voice.
Question 2: What do you think are the root causes for the existence of such prejudiced mindsets
even among the educated in the country? Explain (250 words, 20 marks)
Since our childhood, we have heard or said jokes which were pointed towards a certain community or
gender. Prejudiced mindsets are mainly influenced by socialisation and education.
The root causes of prejudiced mindsets even among the educated in the country
1. Family and peer group influence: We all know that family is the first school of an individual.
Also there is a saying that ‘a man is known by the company he keeps.’ Therefore many of the
prejudices are induced by these two institutions.
2. Socio-cultural environment: Our thoughts and beliefs are often shaped by the society we live
in and so are our prejudices. various factors such as religion and customs also play their role.
Predefined gender roles and regressive definitions of "normal" are some of the regressive social
constructs which even educated members of the society carry with them.
3. Silence of the weaker and marginalised sections is also one of the causes of prejudiced
mindset of the educated masses. Unless women raise their voice, people will not realise that
what they are saying or doing is misogynistic in nature. Similarly, religious, cultural, linguistic
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or gender minories, unless they are empowered to speak up and stand up for themselves,
prejudices will continue to pass on to generation after generation.
4. Socio-economic inequality: Such inequality is often a root cause of prejudices and secondary
treatment in terms of social status, intellect and economic status. Women, LGBTQ or cetrain
communities are often rendered defensless due absence of social and economic empowerment
on equal footings.
5. Education without values and social skills: Is one of the most important root causes of
prejudices among educated masses. Education has become a tool merely for employment,
gradually it is failing to teach values and social skills to people. Educated masses who lack
empathy, compassion, and sense of ‘we’ feeling often resort to irrational prejudices.
Social constructs and subsequent regressive prejudices often affect the work culture of an organisation
where various people work together. To make work culture more egalitarian, inclusive and safe for all, I
can use my persuasion skills to change the mindset of my colleagues. Simultaneously, my professional
ethics and values such as empathy, compassion etc will also help me in raising voice against harassment
of my fellows. In this case, sensitisation of office staff is a test of my leadership skills as well.
Q8. An oil company called EthicalOil started a public relations campaign aimed at
countering criticism of commercial development of oil sands, a set of oil extraction
sites that require the use of hot water and steam to extract very heavy crude oil
from the sands. Environmentalists aimed harsh criticism at the oil sands
development, claiming that this method of extracting oil does immense
environmental damage along with pointing out risks to human health. EthicalOil
sought to counter such criticism by using a nationalistic pitch and pointing out that
anyone not buying locally produced oil, is effectively choosing oil produced by non-
democratic Middle eastern countries with very bad records of human rights abuses.
Thus, the oil produced by EthicalOil is indeed ethical as it is not from tainted
human rights abusing countries. Imagine you as the procurement head for a
national logistics company are responsible for securing a contract to provide oil for
your company’s fleet of trucks. And, the choice is to choose between:
(1) oil that comes from your country where oil extraction does immense environmental
damage.
(2) oil that comes from a country where profits from the oil help support dictatorships with a
history of human rights abuses.
1. What are the ethical issues involved in the above case?
2. What are the courses of action available to you? Evaluate the merits and demerits of
each option and choose what you think is an appropriate option. (250 words, 20 marks)
With the rapidly increasing global temperature, the dilemma of climate change vs energy security has
become further intense. On the other hand, middle eastern countries of the world, from where a large part
of the energy needs are fulfilled, have not yet embraced democracy. Money earned from oil trade is
allegedly used to sustain authoritarian governments which are suspected of grave human rights
violations. The given case study is one such example in which, while procuring oil for the energy needs of
my company, I have to make a choice between Human Rights Violation or Environmental Pollution.
23
ETHICAL ISSUES INVOLVED IN THE GIVEN CASE

Most of the issues involved in this case study are binary in nature, there is an option of choosing one
or the other evil.
1. Environmental concerns Vs Human Rights concerns: There are two modes available to
procure oil for my company one, which is coming from oil sand, is causing pollution and other
is financing for human rights violations.
2. Risk to human health Vs Risk to Human Rights: Human health and human rights both are
ethical issues, the major challenge is to choose a lesser evil between the two. One is causing
sickness and death due to pollution and the other is fueling dictatorship and abuse of human
rights.
3. Domestic oil vs foreign oil: Each option has its social, economic and environmental impacts,
weighing the two judiciously is a concern here.
COURSES OF ACTION: MERITS AND DEMERITS OF EACH OPTION
According to the given case study, I have only two options; Either to procure from pollution causing
domestic industries Or to procure from a country where profits from oil helps support dictatorship with
a history of human rights abuses.
Depending upon the given choices, available courses of action will be;
Procure from within the country: This is the first available course of action.
Merits:
1. It will be nationalist decision and my company will not be indirectly funding dictatorship and
abuse of human rights by importing oil from the mentioned country.
2. It is an economically cheaper option for the company as well as the overall economy. It will cut
down the cost of transportation, leakages, etc.
3. It will give a boost to domestic oil production and reduce import dependency. Oil shocks are
one of the most critical factors in the performance of the macro economy of a country.
Demerits:
1. Domestic procurement is coming from Oil Sands. Extraction from such sources causes
immense environmental damages and risks to human health.
2. Right to clean the environment and health is also a human right. So procurement from
domestic Oil Sand will also lead to financing for human rights violations.
3. This course of action will be based on a sentimental PR campaign of the Oil Company rather
than my own objective evaluation.
Procure from Middle Eastern Countries: This is the second explicit and direct option available to
me.
Merits:
1. Procurement from lesser polluting sources will help me in reducing the carbon footprint
contribution of my company.
2. It will also mitigate potential risk to human health concerns.
3. Since oil is coming from one of the oil rich countries, it is probable that it will be cheaper for my
company to procure.
Demerits:
1. My company will be indirectly funding dictatorship and abuse of human rights by importing oil
from the mentioned country.
2. Due to the opaqueness of dictatorships, it is not evident whether oil extracted in that country is
from lesser pollution causing processes or not.
24
3. Again, this course of action will be based on claims of environmentalists in the country rather
than my own objective evaluation of the larger picture.
Procure after briefly considering various factors Economy, energy security, environment, human
rights etc. This is the third course of action available for me.
Merits:
1. It will be based on objective decision making rather than influenced by PR campaigns or
sentimental propaganda.
2. It will help in choosing for larger good and lesser evil with minimum possible negative
outcomes.
3. It will also help in choosing the most economic and suitable source of oil procurement.
Demerits:
1. For objective decision making, surveying and evaluation might lead to delays in procurement.
2. Might be a cost consuming and complex decision making process.
3. This action will not completely eliminate the two evils, neither environmental concerns nor
human rights abuse.
MOST APPROPRIATE OPTION
Considering all the merits and demerits, the most appropriate course of action will be; Procure after
briefly considering various factors Economy, energy security, environment, human rights etc.
Why and How?
1. Allegations of Human rights violations and nationalistic pitch is part of the public relations
campaign of the EthicalOil company. As a rational being, I will objectively look into these
allegations and take decisions only after taking note of the factual findings.
2. Only after detailed evaluation, I will decide whether I should buy from within the country or
outside.
3. There are other platforms on national and international level to raise the issues of human
rights violations and environmental concerns. Both the issues can be raised there effectively
without compromising the economic interests and energy security of the country or company.
4. Since I am procuring for a National Logistic Company, I can persuade suppliers to agree on
the business contract that has not only economic but also social clauses related to
environment and human rights. There are examples throughout the globe where companies
refused to trade on the blood and sweat of exploited civilians including sanctions on North
Korea, Boycott of certain products of China on allegations of Uighur persecution, FATF
warnings to Pakistan, etc.
5. Lobby for environment conservation or protection of human rights also plays a role in
sustainable and humane trade and commerce. Big clients like my National Logistic Company
can put economic pressure on suppliers to look into the issues of environmental and human
concerns. For Example: There are many beauty brands, committing that they will not buy mica
from sources in which child labour was used.
While resolving this case study I will use my leadership and persuasion skills. I will take a balanced
decision only after objectively assessing the available options. To create an impact and push for
sustainable and humane trade relations, I will use the role model approach in both the given options.
25
Q9. In a Corporation Hotel, there were increasing problems between the hotel
management and staff. To begin with, thefts were occurring in the rooms of those
staying in the hotel. Loose change, jewelry, clothes, and other items were
disappearing from rooms. After consulting with hotel security, management
determined that the cleaning staff was the only group that could possibly be
perpetuating the thefts. At the same time, it was noted that employees were taking
longer and longer breaks, without noting this on time cards. In addition, mysterious
long-distance phone charges were appearing on office telephones after business
hours. After some thought, it was decided that cameras would be installed on the
premises of the hotel. These cameras would be installed in hotel hallways, offices,
elevators, break rooms, and employee locker rooms, where employees changed
before going on and off their shifts. Employees recognised that management needed
to protect the assets of its guests as well as the hotel’s assets in terms of lost work
time and long-distance phone bills. However, they were very upset about the
installation of cameras in their changing rooms and went on strike. The
management played tough with the striking employees and terminated some of the
ring leaders. But the employees continued with the strike much to the financial loss
of the corporation and now the management started feeling the pressure from the
government to settle the strike.
1. What are the ethical & managerial issues involved in the above case?
2. What advice will you provide to the management to help them settle the issue amicably
and put the hotel operations back on track? (250 words, 20 marks)
Given case study projects a picture of mismanaged work culture and professional organisation where
various stakeholders are involved. Hotel management is the key stakeholder here who is suffering on
two fronts; theft and customer loss due to poor work culture and strikes of the employees due to stringent
reformatory measures. Other stakeholders are hotel staff, who are on strike due to camera installations
in their changing rooms, customers who are victims of the theft from their hotel rooms, and the
government who want the corporate hotel to resolve issues between management and staff.
THE ETHICAL & MANAGERIAL ISSUES
At glance, it appears that theft of jewelry and various other assets is the main ethical issue in
this case study. Loss of assets due to theft is in two ways; One is, those who are staying at the hotel
are losing their precious items from their rooms. Other is loss of assets of the hotel due to theft of hotel
services such as calls from office telephones and long breaks without noting times on record.
1. Lax and irresponsible behaviour of employees is an issue which violates the spirit of
professional ethics such as accountability and honesty towards one’s duty. It is leading to poor
work culture, thefts and breach of business trust and relationships.
2. Long distance phone charges after business hours shows unethical behaviour of the workers
at the hotel. Using office assets for personal usage beyond office hours without information of
the authorities is considered as unethical.
3. Financial losses due to strike after installation of cameras is a managerial issue involved
here. Management failed to resolve the issue without compromising financial interests of the
corporate hotel.
4. Pressure from the government to settle the strike is again a managerial issue because the
employees-employer issue of the hotel, which could have been resolved within the organisation,
has blown out of proportion and now the government has to step in.
26
5. Dilemma of privacy vs protection of assets: This is an ethical as well as managerial issue,

where assets and interests of the corporate hotel have to be protected along with the protection
of the privacy and freedom of staff at the hotel.
WHAT ADVICE WILL YOU PROVIDE TO THE MANAGEMENT?
I will advise management on two fronts, immediate measures and long term measures.
For immediate resolution of the crisis, I will advise management to call a meeting with the striking
employees and listen to their demands. Find a middle way solution by accepting genuine demands and
convince them to end the strike using persuasion skills of the HR team.
For the long term, there is a need to reform the work culture of the hotel management and staff. I will
suggest them to;
1. Find root cause of employees behaviour: Theft, irregularity, and misuse of corporation
assets, these are some of the reactions when there is lack of satisfaction in the job.
2. There is a need for Detailed analysis of Salary, training, professional qualification, frequency of
appraisal, among all the categories of the staff from cleaning staff to managerial positions. It
will help in judging the job satisfaction, background and behaviour of the employees.
3. Communication can bring solutions to almost every conflict: I will suggest regular meetups
and glass breaking sessions where staff and management could easily communicate with each
other and express their expectations and grievances towards each other to amicably resolve it
at a dinner party!
4. Hire a good HR team and grievance redressal mechanism: The Hotel is a Corporate
institution with a staff, they must be having an HR team. If not, they should have one to
address these issues.
5. Involve employees in finding solutions to the problems: In this case, recognise and value
their right to privacy in changing rooms and resting places, and having a discussion with them
regarding loss of assets could bring innovative solutions to the problem. Similarly, involving
staff in management related to staff themselves will bring a feeling of belongingness towards the
hotel. It infuses loyalty and accountability among workers towards the institution.
6. Steps to inculcate professional ethics and code of conduct: At all the levels of management
and staff, there should be planned infusion of professional ethics and code of conduct. It can be
done through regular training, quick morning sessions for the ground staff, and routine checks,
etc.
While resolving such case studies I will prefer to use a Participative Approach. When all stakeholders are
involved in discussion, it brings out a clear picture and helps in understanding the reasons behind
particular behaviour. I will emphasise on development of persuasion skills of the management,
persuasion helps in bringing desired changes swiftly. While resolving such cases, objectivity of the
thoughts plays an important role and helps in striking a fine balance between rights and interests of
employees and employers.
Q10. In December 2015, the FBI attained the iPhone of one of the shooters in an ISIS-
inspired terrorist attack that killed 14 people in San Bernardino, California. As part
of the investigation, the FBI attempted to gain access to the data stored on the
phone but was unable to penetrate its encryption software. Lawyers for the Obama
administration approached Apple for assistance with unlocking the device, but
negotiations soon broke down. The Justice Department then obtained a court order
compelling Apple to help the FBI unlock the phone. Apple CEO, Timothy Cook,
27
publicly challenged the court in an open letter, sparking an intense debate over the
balance between maintaining national security and protecting user privacy. Apple
and its supporters, including top technology companies such as Google and
Facebook, made the case on several fronts that the court order threatened the
privacy of all individuals.
1. Do you think Apple had a moral obligation to help the FBI open the iPhone in this case
because it involved terrorism and national security?
2. Is it justified to violate an individual’s personal privacy in the name of national interest?
Discuss. (250 words, 20 marks)
Individual's privacy versus national security is a never ending debate, the above mentioned case is one
such real incident which sparked the debate again. There are two main stakeholders, Apple the mobile
company and FBI the investigating agency. Both have their respective arguments against and in favour
of decrypting the mobile phones of terrorists. Other than these two, victims and their relatives, accused
persons, and people at large are also stakeholders whose rights to justice, to privacy and to security are
at stake.
Apple had a moral obligation to help the FBI open the iPhone in this case? There are arguments
for and against the moral obligation of Apple;
NO MORAL OBLIGATION
1. Apple is an independent business company, it is not accountable to any action of its clients.
There is no formal agreement between the government and company regarding help in
investigation of the cases.
2. To investigate crimes and cases of terrorism is duty of investigating agency that is FBI. It
should find out its own ways to resolve the case rather than forcing a third party to oblige.
3. To unlock the mobile phone, the company is effectively required to write code, which is a
violation of the freedom of speech protected by the constitution of the US. Previous court
cases had already established computer code as legally protected speech.
4. Such a backdoor, once created, could fall into the wrong hands and threaten the privacy of
all iPhone owners.
5. It would set a dangerous precedent; law enforcement could repeatedly require businesses
such as Apple to assist in criminal investigations, effectively making technology companies
an agent of government.
YES, IT IS A MORAL OBLIGATION
1. Terrorist single handedly killed and injured so many people, it is logical that he must have
planned and trained himself before executing this horrendous attack.
2. Cooperation from Apple could help in averting future attacks and could bust a larger network
of antinational terrorists operating in the country.
3. There is a quote of Desmound Tutu, an African human rights activist, that 'If you are neutral
in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor'.
4. He also gave an analogy, 'If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you
are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality'.
5. Act of terror is grave injustice towards victims, nation and humanity as a whole, therefore
to establish justice again, each stakeholder must cooperate.
6. If Apple cooperated, it could safeguard the code it created and keep it out of the hands of
others, including bad actors such as terrorists or criminal groups.
28
Is it justified to violate an individual’s personal privacy in the name of national interest?

Privacy versus National interest, both sides have its importance. There are argument is favour of one or
the other as follows;
It is justified
1. With fastest ever development of technologies, terrorist and criminals are also updating and
advancing themselves. To tackle the increasingly complicated nature of crimes, there is need
for change in prevention, control and investigation methods too.
2. Investigating authorities should be able to gain access to information that facilitates
prevention and prosecution of criminal activities, from terrorism to drug trafficking to child
pornography.
3. Privacy of an individual has the potential to compromise the safety and security of millions of
other people.
4. Going by the utilitarian view of greatest good of greatest number, National Interest must be
given priority over privacy of individuals, especially those who are a threat to nation and
humanity.
5. Legal system should establish constraints on the government’s access to private information
which prevent abuse of search and surveillance powers.
It is not justified
1. Right to privacy is a constitutional right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

Infringement of privacy often leads to rippling effects on other capabilities of the individual, and
places him or her in a vulnerable position.
2. In the name of National security, often governments resort to spying on civilians and curbing
freedom of those who do not fall in line.
3. One example is Pegasus spyware, developed by an Israeli company. Its developers claim that
they sell this spyware to use only for criminal and national security investigations and that
it has an industry-leading approach to human rights. But recently a pandora box was opened
proving the misuse of this spyware by government agencies.
4. Violating one's privacy for national security has the potential for extremely damaging
implications on human rights, journalists, whistle-blowers, political dissidents and others.
5. Few years back, shocking revelations by Edwards Snowden and Wikileaks founder Julian
Assange also showed the brutal reality of surveillance and spying behind the curtain of national
security.
The government is accountable for protecting constitutionally guaranteed rights, it includes both the right
to privacy and the right to life. The current laws already provide conditions under which surveillance is
permissible. However, it must not be used against innocent civilians and people of opinion. Surveillance
technologies that are invasive beyond reasonable limits, like Pegasus, should be banned. Reforms are
also required to ensure judicial oversight over public agencies.
29
Q11. You are heading a government Department and one day a female staff of the
Department comes to you with a complaint about Ravi, the newly appointed peon.
The lady complained about his past history of having sexual harassment cases
against him. The lady claiming to be speaking on behalf of every women staff
member requested you to transfer Ravi or terminate his services, as they feared for
their safety. When you did your enquiries, you realised that Ravi was absolved of all
charges by the court and his record was clean. When you called Ravi to discuss the
matter, he made some shocking revelations that some senior staff members
including women wanted him to work in their homes as other peons did. Since he
refused to do so, the staff have started harassing him and hence the false case of
safety.
As a head, what will be your options and discuss how you will handle Ravi and the lady staff
member without affecting the office morale and work atmosphere. (250 words, 20 marks)
Sexual harassment at work place is a real issue, many women face physical or verbal harassment. On
some occassion it has also been observed that some men are falsely framed with the charges of sexual
harassment. Since the nature of harassment is difficult to prove in the court of law, it is often challenging
to come to conclusion whether law is being rightly used or misused. Given case study is one such
example where two narratives are being presented to me as a head of the government department.
AS A HEAD OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO ME
1. Listen to the lady and believe her claims: If I go with this option and terminate/transfer
Ravi's services, it will be injustice towards him. Whatever might be his previous history, I
believe everyone deserves a fair chance because 'Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a
future'.
2. Listen to Ravi and believe his part of the story: As per my enquiries I found that Ravi has
been absolved of all previous charges and his record is clean. Though the merit of this option is
that it has a factor of truth, still it is not a right option. It is not judicious to act upon,
without enquiry, the information given by a person who himself is a subject in the matter. It is
not yet sure whether the allegations of Ravi are true or not.
3. Listen to both Lady and Ravi, and not take any action; Allegations and conflicts between the
team members and staff are part and parcel of the workplace, so I have an option of ignoring
both of them to avoid further complications. De-merit of this option is that it neither negates
nor proves the truth behind the allegations of both the parties. If one or both the parties are
right in their complaints then it is my duty to act upon it and resolve the matter.
4. Enquire into allegations of both the parties and take actions based on the factual findings
of the report: This option seems most appropriate to me because it gives fair chance to both
the parties to be heard and helps me in taking action based on truthful findings of the
independent enquiry.
MY COURSE OF ACTION
I will enquire into allegations of both the parties and take actions based on the factual findings of the
report. There are three possibilities;
1. Case 1: The Lady is right in her allegations. Clear record does not give a clean chit to present
and future actions of a person. Based on the enquiry report and department policy, I will take
action against Ravi. I will also make sure that all the staff members are aware of the
department's policy against sexual harassment. Sensitisation and awareness will help in
providing a safe and secure work environment to women staff members.
30
2. Case 2: Ravi is right in his revelations. Independent enquiry and testimony of other peons
prove his narrative. I will take suitable punitive action against all those staff members who are
asking peons to do work at their personal homes. I will also make sure that all the staff
members including peons and seniors are well aware of their duties and rights as part of the
professional ethics at the workplace.
3. Case 3: Both Lady and Ravi are truthful in their respective allegations. The inquiry proves
that Ravi has a past history of sexual harassment though he managed to prove not guilty. The
Inquiry also proves that the woman and other senior staff members do ask other peons to work
in their homes. In this case, action against Ravi as well as other staff members is required.
Taking the same steps mentioned in Case1 and Case2 will resolve the issue for the time being.
For the long term, I will design a policy to promote ethical work culture in my department. To
inculcate ethical behaviour and professional ethics as per the designed policy, I will conduct
training and sensitization sessions under the supervision and guidance of experts.
In the given case, I will be able to utilize my personal and professional values such as integrity,
objectivity and leadership. By staying neutral I will be able to make the best suitable and just decision
which will address grievances of both the parties without compromising office morale and work
atmosphere. By taking actions for a long term efficient and safe work culture, I will be able to build an
ethical and professional workplace.
Q12. In some ways, social media platforms have created great benefits for our
societies by expanding and diversifying the ways people communicate with each
other, and yet these platforms also have the power to cause harm. Posting hurtful
messages or trolling other people is a form of harassment called cyberbullying. And
sometimes trolling or cyberbullying can take a serious turn. In an upscale public
school in Mumbai, a senior secondary school lady teacher became a victim of
trolling by her own student. After discovering that one of her students had posted
an abusive and slanderous post on Facebook, she confronted the student in front of
the entire class. Inquiring why the student would post such hurtful messages that
could harm the teacher’s reputation, the student guiltily replied that she was upset
at that time. The teacher demanded a public apology in front of the class, to which
the girl student did apologise. Meanwhile, taking the punishment further, the
teacher posted the apology video online with a statement that she will not allow
anybody to troll or bully her online. The posting of the apology video led to an
online confrontation where the students felt that the teacher had crossed her limits
while the teaching community defended the teacher.
1. In trying to teach a lesson about taking responsibility for her actions, did the teacher go
too far and become a bully herself? Why or why not?
2. Do you think social media in our country must be regulated? If yes, then what should be
ethical codes that social media companies must follow. Elaborate.
Social media has become an important part of our day today. Along with its numerous benefits, it has
also become an easy platform for bullying and harassment of other individuals. There is a huge spike in
reported cases of cyberbullying and cyberstalking during pandemic as well. Cyberbullying is a serious
concern because it can spread very quickly and widely and it can stay there on the internet indefinitely.
Such repeated exposure and permanent damage could affect one's mental or emotional health as well as
his/her social and professional life. Given case study is one such example of cyberbullying in which a
31
teacher and a student both are victims as well as perpetrators of cyberbullying whereas school and
society as a whole are the other stakeholder affected.
Question 1: In trying to teach a lesson about taking responsibility for her actions, did the
teacher go too far and became a bully herself? Why or why not?
Looking at the whole story it is clear that the student accepted that what she did was wrong and she
apologised for the abusive and slanderous facebook post against her teacher. Teacher posted her
apology video online to teach a lesson to the girl student. Prima facie it appears that the teacher went too
far and became a bully herself because
1. It is evident from various surveys and findings of the reports that children and women in India
are most vulnerable to cyber bullying. Posting a video of a senior secondary girl student, who
might be a minor/under 18 years of age, could make the girl vulnerable to cyberbullying
and trolling.
2. Teacher's action could leave the girl student scarred for life. Once entered into an indefinite
network of the internet, reappearance of cyberbullying due to her video could haunt her forever.
3. The purpose of 'teaching a lesson' or punishment should be reformative rather than revenge.
There are many student friendly and harmless ways to teach responsible social media behavior
to students.
4. To avoid future incidents of cyberbullying, the teacher could have drafted an anonymous
post rather than posting the video of the girl student exposing her identity.
5. It is a violation of the privacy of the minor girl student. Violation of one’s rights cannot be
compensated by violating others rights.
6. Girl student was upset and vented her emotions through a facebook post. Rather than
punishing her, the teacher should help her in managing her emotions by showing her harmless
ways of venting out and emotional management.
Question 2: Do you think social media in our country must be regulated? If yes, then what
should be ethical codes that social media companies must follow. Elaborate.
NEED FOR REGULATION OF SOCIAL MEDIA
1. The "Bois Locker Room" and "Sulli Deals" are the two prominent examples of massive and
shameless cyber bullying. In the former, boys created a private chat group to post and discuss
private pictures of their fellow girl students. While in the second, young Muslim female activists
were virtually auctioned through rating their pictures.
2. Similarly, after loosing to Pakistan in world cup T20, Virat Kohli, his wife and his
daughter were trolled and bullyed by rape threats.
3. The increasing access to affordable data services has given rise to this faceless evil worldwide.
According to a survey conducted by UNICEF, one in every three young people have reported
to be a victim of cyberbullying.
4. Studies have shown that cyber bullying could cause profound harm as it can quickly reach a
wide audience and can remain accessible online indefinitely, virtually following its victims
online for life.
5. Considering the increasing number of social media crimes and bullying and its impacts on lives
of individuals and communities, it appears rational to say that social media must be
regulated in our country.
32
ETHICAL CODES THAT SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES MUST FOLLOW

Recently the government of India came up with a detailed set of guidelines on ethical codes that social
media companies must follow. Along with those guidelines, following are some key recommendations for
Code of Ethics for Social Media.
1. Voluntary User Verification Mechanism: Users who wish to verify their accounts voluntarily
shall be provided an appropriate mechanism to verify their accounts and provided with
demonstrable and visible mark of verification.
2. Chief Compliance Officer and a Nodal Contact Person who shall be responsible for ensuring
compliance with the Act and Rules and will be available for 24x7 coordination with law
enforcement agencies. They shall be a resident in India.
3. Grievance Redressal Mechanism: The social media intermediaries should establish a
grievance redressal mechanism for receiving resolving complaints from the users or victims.
They shall appoint a Grievance Officer to deal with such complaints and share the name and
contact details of such officers.
4. Ensuring Online Safety and Dignity of Users, Specially Women Users: Intermediaries shall
remove or disable access within 24 hours of receipt of complaints of contents that expose the
private areas of individuals, including morphed images etc.
5. Giving Users An Opportunity to Be Heard: In cases where social media intermediaries remove
or disable access to any information on their own accord, then a prior intimation for the same
shall be communicated to the user who has shared that information with a notice explaining
the grounds and reasons for such action. Users must be provided an adequate and reasonable
opportunity to dispute the action taken by the intermediary.
6. Social Media companies should publish a monthly compliance report mentioning the details
of complaints received and action taken on the complaints as well as details of contents
removed proactively by the significant social media intermediary.
India is the world’s largest open Internet society, there are 53 Crore WhatsApp users, more than 41 Crore
Facebook users, similar is the case of Instagram and Twitter, etc. These social platforms have enabled
common Indians to show their creativity, ask questions, be informed and freely share their views.
Proliferation of social media, on one hand empowers the citizens then on the other hand gives rise to
some serious concerns and consequences which have grown manifold in recent years. For equitable and
inclusive access to these new platforms, without harming the dignity of the individual, it is important to
address the issue of cyber bullying. To tackle this evil, there is a need for a two pronged approach; one is
rules and laws for regulation of the social media platforms and other is mass awareness of all; victims,
perpetrators and neutral users.
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(BATCH L) Test Code: TC525 TEST 8

INCULCATION OF HUMAN VALUES ARE A CHALLENGE

RELEVANT EMOTIONAL SKILLS FOR AN ADMINISTRATOR FOR BUILDING TRUSTING

Figure: Some of the values expected according to Mission Karmayogi

SOME EXAMPLES OF CIVIL SERVANTS

ETHICS MAY LEAD TO A COMPROMISE IN THE BUREAUCRATIC PERFORMANCE VALUES OF

(b) “Bureaucracy is generally considered to be impersonal, insensitive and by and large

3. Details of ‘Citizens’ or ‘Clients’.

'QUALITY' OF PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY

Q6. Explain the following quotes:

A JUST SOCIETY: DISSOLUTION OF REVERENCE AND CONTEMPT TO CREATE COMPASSION

MEANING OF THE QUOTE

NOTHING WRONG IN BEING SELFISH

SELF INTERESTS AND SECURITY VS GREED

4. Lack of professional Ethics: Misuse of internet, informal vulgar communication, harassment

ETHICAL ISSUES INVOLVED IN THE GIVEN CASE

5. Dilemma of privacy vs protection of assets: This is an ethical as well as managerial issue,

Is it justified to violate an individual’s personal privacy in the name of national interest?

1. Right to privacy is a constitutional right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

ETHICAL CODES THAT SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES MUST FOLLOW

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