GS4 Final

INSTA SECURE SYNOPSIS
INSIGHTSIAS
IA SIMPLIFYING IAS EXAM PREPARATION

MAINS MISSION - 2022
GS- IV
APRIL 2022
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NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They
are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing
is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same time gives you
extra points in the form of background information.
Table of Contents
Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions;
dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships. ........................................................ 7
The consequences of our actions are important and we should weigh these up when we consider
what we should do. Evaluate the statement in the context of utilitarian ethics. (150 words) ......... 7
Ethics needs standards, but they can’t be followed in a mechanical way. Each person must have
their own stable set of core values with the integrity to take responsibility for his or her own
judgment and choices, even in a turbulent, ever-changing environment. Elaborate. (150 words) .. 8
What do understand by the doctrine of Consequentialism? (150 words) ....................................... 9
Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;
role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values. ......................................... 11
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. Explain with
examples. (150 words) ................................................................................................................. 11
What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun,
the moon, and the truth” -Gautama Buddha. .............................................................................. 13
Family is the foundation on which values are built and a strong familial value system transforms
children in to adults who contribute to an orderly and peaceful society. Discuss. (150 words) ..... 14
What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “In civilized life, law floats in a sea of ethics”.
– Earl Warren. ............................................................................................................................. 15

What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “The highest result of education is tolerance” ―
Helen Keller ................................................................................................................................. 16
What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “Facts are many, but the truth is one”
– Rabindranath Tagore ................................................................................................................ 17
The emotional and ethical foundation we give our children at home is foundational to their life.
Elaborate. (150 words) ................................................................................................................ 18
What does this quote means to you? (150 words)“A person may cause evil to others not only by
his actions but by his inaction, and in either case he is justly accountable to them for the
injury.” ― John Stuart Mill ........................................................................................................... 20
What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “The secret of happiness, you see, is not found
in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.” ― Socrates ................................. 21
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service , integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship,
objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker
sections. .......................................................................................................................................... 22
Integrity isn’t fidelity to your beliefs. It’s fidelity to seeking the truth. Comment. (150 words) ..... 22
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behavior; moral
and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion ................................................................... 23
What is public morality? Is public morality at time antithetical to individual rights? Critically
examine. (150 words) .................................................................................................................. 23
Ethical leaders can positively influence many others, presenting them with a set of actions that
they can adopt for the greater good. Analyse. (150 words) .......................................................... 24
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world. ......................................... 26
Morality would be very shallow and almost meaningless, if the sole moral imperatives were to
seek happiness and avoid the miseries for ourselves. Critically Analyse. (150 words) ................... 26
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns
and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as
sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and
moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; ........................... 27
What are the ways of strengthening and improving the moral character of civil servants? (150
words) ......................................................................................................................................... 27
Do you think that drug addiction must be treated with an empathetic approach by viewing addict
as a victim rather than a criminal? Critically analyse. (150 words) ................................................ 28
Restoring trust and integrity in public institutions and officials is key to safeguarding democracy
and promote better governance. Discuss. (150 words) ............................................................... 30
Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity;
Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of
Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds,
challenges of corruption. ................................................................................................................. 34
Whistleblowing is one of the most effective ways to detect and prevent corruption and
malpractices. Elaborate. .............................................................................................................. 34

Does accountability foster ethical or morally responsible behaviour in public servants? Critically
analyse. (150 Words) ................................................................................................................... 36
A Citizens’ Charter represents the commitment of the Organisation towards standard, quality and
time frame of service delivery, grievance redress mechanism, transparency and accountability.
Discuss. (150 words) .................................................................................................................... 38
Case Studies on above issues. .......................................................................................................... 40
The drug case has its provenance in intelligence generated jointly by the State Excise Enforcement
Squad (SEES) and the Customs department. The Customs had intercepted at least two air cargo
parcels containing a significant amount of a banned narcotic. The importers had used fake
invoices and the services of a cargo agent to ship in the drug from Spain surreptitiously. ............ 40
A fresh engineering graduate gets a job in a prestigious chemical industry. She likes the work. The
salary is also good. However, after a few months she accidentally discovers that a highly toxic
waste is being secretly discharged into a river nearby. This is causing health problems to the
villagers downstream who depend on the river for their water needs. She is perturbed and
mentions her concern to her colleagues who have been with the company for longer periods.
They advise her to keep quite as anyone who mentions the topic is summarily dismissed. She
cannot risk losing her job as she is the sole bread-winner for her family and has to support her
ailing parents and siblings. At first, she thinks that if her seniors are keeping quiet, why should she
stick out her neck. But her conscience pricks her to do something to save the river and the people
who depend upon it. At heart she feels that the advice of silence given by her friends is not
correct though she cannot give reasons for it. She thinks you are a wise person and seeks your
advice. ......................................................................................................................................... 44
Rameshwar successfully cleared the prestigious civil services examination and was excited about
the opportunity that he would get through the civil services to serve the country. However, soon
after joining the services, he realized that things are not as rosy as he had imagined. He found a
number of malpractices prevailing in the department assigned to him. For example, funds under
various schemes and grants were being misappropriated. The official facilities were frequently
being used for personal needs by the officers and staff. After some time, he noticed that the
process of recruiting the staff was also not up to the mark. Prospective candidates were required
to write an examination in which a lot of cheating was going on. Some candidates were provided
external help in the examination. Rameshwar brought these incidents to the notice of his seniors.
However, he was advised to keep his eyes, ears and mouth shut and ignore all these things which
were taking place with the connivance of the higher-ups. Rameshwar felt highly disillusioned and
uncomfortable. He comes to you seeking your advice. Indicate various options that you think are
available in this situation. How would you help him to evaluate these options and choose the most
appropriate path to be adopted? (250 words) ............................................................................. 46
You are the Sarpanch of a Panchayat. There is a primary school run by the government in your
area. Midday meals are provided to children attending the school. The headmaster has now
appointed a new cook in the school to prepare the meals. However, when it is found that cook is
from Dalit community, almost half of the children belonging to higher castes are not allowed to
take meals by their parents. Consequently, the attendance in the schools falls sharply. This could
result in the possibility of discontinuation of midday meal scheme, thereafter of teaching staff and
subsequent closing down the school............................................................................................ 47
You are the head of the Human Resources department of an organisation. One day one of the
workers died on duty. His family was demanding compensation. However, the company denied

compensation because it was revealed in investigation that he was drunk at the time of the
accident. The workers of the company went to strike demanding compensation for the family of
the deceased. The Chairman of the management board has asked for your recommendation. .... 49


Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics

in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.
The consequences of our actions are important and we should weigh these up when we
consider what we should do. Evaluate the statement in the context of utilitarian ethics.
(150 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Philosophical
Mondays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the ways to strengthen moral character among civil servants.
Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of
the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidence. You must appraise the worth of
the statement in question. There is scope for forming an opinion here.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by describing utilitarian ethics.
Body:
Explain utilitarianism, a moral theory that argues that actions should be judged right or wrong to the
extent they increase or decrease human well-being or ‘utility’. It state that consequences of an action
are good, then the act is moral and if the consequences are bad, the act is immoral.
Next, give the other side of the argument. As actions should be determined by principles rather than
by consequences.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a balanced opinion.
Introduction
In deontological ethics an action is considered morally good because of some characteristic of the
action itself, not because the product of the action is good. Deontological ethics holds that at least
some acts are morally obligatory regardless of their consequences for human welfare. Descriptive of
such ethics are such expressions as “Duty for duty’s sake,” “Virtue is its own reward,” and “Let
justice be done though the heavens fall.”
Body
Popularity of Utilitarianism
Utilitarianism is a form of consequentialism because it rests on the idea that it is the consequences
or results of actions, laws, policies, etc. that determine whether they are good or bad, right or
wrong. In general, whatever is being evaluated, we ought to choose the one that will produce the
best overall results. In the language of utilitarians, we should choose the option that “maximizes
utility,” i.e. that action or policy that produces the largest amount of good.
In simple words, Utilitarianism is teleological which believes in “Ends justify the means”; whereas
deontological ethics believes in “Purity of means”. Yet this is more popular and acceptable
as Bentham evolved his theory of greatest good of greatest number. The greatest good of the
greatest number, is the most important formula of Bentham Utilitarianism.
For example, each government is obliged to adopt such policies which could give the greatest good
of the greatest number. A government which works for the good of a few numbers is not at all a

good government. It is tyranny and unjustifiable government. Thus, the principle of ‘the greatest
good of the greatest number’ is benevolent and universalistic in nature.
However, this came under criticism as denial of right to one or few to achieve greater good, would-
be injustice. And denial of justice anywhere is an injustice everywhere.
Limitations and criticism
 A limitation of utilitarianism is that it tends to create a black-and-white construct of

morality. In utilitarian ethics, there are no shades of gray—either something is wrong or it is
right.
 Utilitarianism also cannot predict with certainty whether the consequences of our actions
will be good or bad—the results of our actions happen in the future.
 Utilitarianism also has trouble accounting for values like justice and individual rights.
o For example, say a hospital has four people whose lives depend upon receiving
organ transplants: a heart, lungs, a kidney, and a liver. If a healthy person wanders
into the hospital, his organs could be harvested to save four lives at the expense of
his one life.
o This would arguably produce the greatest good for the greatest number. But few
would consider it an acceptable course of action, let alone an ethical one.
Conclusion
Deontology is simple to apply. It just requires that people follow the rules and do their duty. This
approach tends to fit well with our natural intuition about what is or isn’t ethical. Unlike
consequentialism, which judges actions by their results, deontology doesn’t require weighing the
costs and benefits of a situation. This avoids subjectivity and uncertainty because one only has to
follow set rules.
Ethics needs standards, but they can’t be followed in a mechanical way. Each person
must have their own stable set of core values with the integrity to take responsibility for
his or her own judgment and choices, even in a turbulent, ever-changing environment.
Elaborate. (150 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Abstract
Thursdays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Key demand of the question:
To write about ethics and importance of core values in a ever changing environment.
Directive word:
Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must
be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Introduction:
Begin the answer by defining ethics.
Body:

Explain in detail the importance of core values system in changing and turbulent times – how
integrity and core values help a person stay on the right path despite changing standards.
Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stressing on the importance of core value system.
Introduction
Core values are a defined system of beliefs that helps people tell the difference between right from
wrong. According to Montrose & Sweeney (2010), professional values differ from personal ones, and
different generations tend to uphold different ones. Values are elements of life that we hold as
important or desirable. They are standards of conduct and guide of human behaviour.
Body
Core values drive behaviour and form beliefs. Examples of core values include reliability,
dependability, loyalty, honesty, commitment, consistency, and efficiency. People in satisfying
relationships will often say their partner shares their values. They are usually talking about core
values, which dictate how they live their lives.
Examples of positive core values include a belief in managing resources wisely and being frugal, that
family is crucial, that one must earn trust, or that honesty is the best policy. Another reason core
values are important is that parents rely on them as guiding principles for their children on how to
be happy and successful in their adult lives.
If we lived in an ideal world, core values would be exclusively positive. However, values like greed
and self-interest are sometimes among them. Negative values develop when people are forced to
survive in difficult situations or live in insecurity or fear.
People’s values tend to change over time as well. Values that suited you as a child change as you
become a young adult, which may further change as you become an old person. They change
because we want them to; or sometimes they change even if when we didn’t mean them to. We
may have believed that something is wrong but now we might not be so sure that it’s true. We may
have believed that we’d never do something; but then we do it and we decide that it’s okay to do it.
Over a period of time, new ethical issues have arisen and values have changed.
However, Values are essential to build ourselves. We build ourselves to survive in the world and
create a society. Since values needed to build a good society are constant or similar, values can be
said to be constant, similar or universal as each of us tries to build a good society.
“Open your arms to change but don’t let go of your values.” – The 14th Dalai Lama. This tells us that
good values are not supposed to change. They are eternal.
Conclusion
Thus, values can be either universal, relative or dynamic which keeps changing with time. As Einstein
once rightly remarked, “Try not to become a man of success but try to become a man of
values”. Values influence our thoughts, feelings and actions. They guide us to do the right things.
Values give direction and firmness to life.
What do understand by the doctrine of Consequentialism? (150 words)

Reference: stanford.edu
Why the question:
To write about the philosophy of consequentialism.
Introduction:
Begin by defining the philosophy of consequentialism in brief.
Body:
In your own words, explain philosophy of consequentialism “the ends justify the means.”
Consequentialism says an act is good if it results in a good situation. An act is bad if it results in a
bad situation. Consequentialists then try to determine what a “good situation” actually entails, who
should benefit from the good, who should determine the good, and the relevancy of good intentions.
Cite examples to substantiate.
Conclusion:
Conclude by summarising.
Introduction
Consequentialism, as its name suggests, is simply the view that normative properties depend only
on consequences. Teleology or consequentialism is referred to as results-oriented ethics. It focuses
on the purpose of each action and whether there is an intention or meaning for the action. It deals
with the consequences of an action. It involves examining past experiences in order to figure out the
results of present actions. One of the most well-known forms of consequentialism is utilitarianism
which was first proposed by Jeremy Bentham and his mentee J.S. Mill.
Body
 An action is good if its consequences are good; an action is wrong if its consequences are
bad.
 Teleological moral theories locate moral goodness in the consequences of our behaviour and
not the behaviour itself.
 As per Teleology, Moral behaviour, is goal-directed.
 For E.g.: lying could not be judged inherently right or wrong independent of the context and
the foreseeable consequences, it is good if it saves life.
 Two forms of consequentialism are utilitarianism and hedonism.
 Utilitarianism requires a moral agent to foresee the outcomes of one’s action. In any given
situation, individual takes that action which will result in the maximum utility or
the minimum uselessness.
 The modern form of the consequentialist theory of utilitarianism derives from 19th century
British philosophers such as Jeremy Benthamand John Stuart Mill.
 Rather than maximise individual welfare, utilitarianism focuses on collective welfareand it

identifies goodness with the greatest amount of good for the greatest number of people:
the ‘greatest happiness principle’.
 For E.g.: Development of Aadhar card by collecting information of citizens, despite protests
in favour of privacy, for greater welfare.

 Hedonism, on the other hand, says something is “good” if the consequence produces
pleasure or avoids pain. Some have argued that this is flawed as it does not allow for one to
be able to follow certain moral rules and it concentrates too much on the ends rather than
the means.
Merits of Teleology:
 Goal Directed functioning
 Democratic way of decision making.
Demerits of Teleology:
 Minority opinion are not considered. Because utilitarianism concerned with benefit to
majority.
 Orthodox views are validated. For E.g.: Justification of Sati as it was view held by majority.
 Not every happiness is quantifiable or comparable or outcome based.
Conclusion
While deontology is based on man’s absolute duty towards mankind and how it is given priority over
results, teleology is based on the results of an action and on whether an action produces greater
happiness and less pain.
Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers
and administrators; role of family, society and educational institutions in
inculcating values.
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. Explain
with examples. (150 words)
Difficulty level: Easy

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of
‘Quotes Wednesdays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Introduction:
Start by giving a simple understanding of the meaning of the quote.
Body:
Mention the morality of conscious inaction, its consequences. No action resulting in injustice. Cite
examples from history and current happenings to substantiate. Write about the aspect of
communitarian ethics where the good men have the responsibility to speak out and act in the face of
evils, to preserve their community.

Conclusion:
Conclude by underscoring injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere and hence calls for
‘good men’ to take responsibility.
Introduction
The phrase or quote; “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do
nothing.” is famously attributed to Edmund Burke. The other distinguished man, Albert Einstein,
also said that: “The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil but by those who watch them
without doing anything.”
The quote means that if you allow something to happen that was inherently bad or evil when you
had knowledge or experience that the event happening was wrong morally, then you would have let
“evil” win and have its way and it will have “triumphed”.
Body
Conscious inaction
For instance, when you see an old person getting mugged or a girl being eve teased and you
chose inaction about it during the incident.
You may have felt you could not interfere because “it was none of your business”. Or you were
afraid that you will be the next target. Or maybe, you assumed somebody else would step up and
say something. Or you thought you could not spare the time. Or you may even think that perhaps
you were misjudging the situation. Or someone will take action or say something for you.
In spite of every possible reason on earth, we allow evil to prevail because we are afraid to be
unpopular, scared or plainly, do not care.
The case of Afghanistan:
This is the exact replication of events that has happened in Afghanistan with the Taliban taking over
the control of Kabul. What the world has been witnessing with the Taliban victory and people trying
to escape from Afghanistan and many getting killed in this effort is indeed pure evil. One cannot
justify it in any way, shape, or form. We cannot sit idly by and watch it on our computer screens and
TV screens. It must be confronted or it will grow like a cancer throughout the world.
President Biden said his hands were tied to a withdrawal given the awful peace deal negotiated
between the Trump administration and the Taliban. But there was still a way to pull out American
troops while giving Afghans a better chance to hold the gains US made with them over the last two
decades.
Biden chose otherwise. The way he announced the drawdown and eventual departure of American
troops — at the start of the fighting season, on a rapid timeline and sans adequate coordination with
the Afghan government — has in part gotten us into the current situation.
At the very least, the United States should have continued to support the Afghans through this
period to help them blunt the Taliban’s latest offensive and buy time to plan for a future devoid of
American military assistance.
American diplomats could have used this time to negotiate access to regional bases from which to
continue counterterrorism operations. Simultaneously, the American military should have prepared
contingencies in case those negotiations failed.

Reasonable people can disagree about the wisdom of keeping American military forces in
Afghanistan indefinitely, even at very low numbers. A responsible withdrawal needed more time and
better preparation.
Conclusion
As another famous philosopher, John Stuart Mill, said: ‘Let not any one pacify his conscience by the
delusion that he can do no harm if he takes no part, and forms no opinion. Bad men need nothing
more to compass their ends, than those good men should look on and do nothing.’
What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “Three things cannot be long hidden:
the sun, the moon, and the truth” -Gautama Buddha.
‘Quotes Wednesdays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by explaining the quote in your word.
Body:
The sun sets, but we all know it will rise again in the morning. The moon rises when the sun sets and
sets when the sun reappears. In other words, something that exists can be hidden for a certain period
of time, but it will always reappear and the truth is the same. You can manipulate, distort the truth,
hide it, but at some point, the truth will be known. Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by emphasising on the importance of leading a truthful life.
Introduction
The above statement highlights the importance of truth and how truth alone triumphs no matter
how hard one tries to suppress or hide it. It is like the Sun and the moon, no matter what they will
rise and come up in the sky even when the clouds seem to mask them for a while.
Body
It is said that Gandhiji was greatly influenced by Raja Harish Chandra’s play where the protagonist
walked on the path of truth no matter what. This is what inspired him to take up the path of truth in
his life. Eventually his ideologies came in influence a lot of people and he was successful in turning
out British from our country
Today’s society places a high value on truth and the person who speaks the truth. Truth serves as a
foundation of a fair and just society. In court, witnesses are required to swear to tell the truth – in
this way, and justice can be delivered. Most modern religions have an opinion on the matter, and

they place a high value on the principles of truthfulness. Broadly, there are two aspects of
truthfulness: being true to others and being true to oneself. The two are not wholly the same thing;
however, they are closely linked.
Providing false information is wrong. Some people tend to lie to get themselves out of a situation or
not hurt anyone’s feelings. However, in some scenarios, it becomes necessary to lie. Just like any
other quality, in truthfulness finding the balance is essential. One should neither overplay nor
underplay their weaknesses or their virtues. It is as bad to pretend that one is less good in something
than they are as to exaggerate about their abilities.
Truth is what corresponds with the available facts and pieces of evidence. Truth does not change
just because we learn something about it. However, it is not good to always tell the truth. If the main
purpose of telling the truth is to hurt someone, it is then considered to be terrible than the most
terrible lie. This is why many people keep in mind other people’s sentiments and beliefs before
telling the truth. Sometimes, not telling the truth doesn’t necessarily mean someone has to lie. It can
also be keeping from them a few details that they don’t need to know.
Conclusion
Truth is the virtue by which all your sins can be averted. Honesty is the one thing that holds the
power to change hearts. Truthfulness is not only in the case of honesty towards others but it is also
about how true we are to our own selves. We all need to realize our potential and learn to stay true
to our own conscience.
Family is the foundation on which values are built and a strong familial value system
transforms children in to adults who contribute to an orderly and peaceful society.
Discuss. (150 words)
Why the question:
To write about the ways to strengthen moral character among civil servants.
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the
details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for
and against arguments.
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of family as foundation for value system.
Body:
Elaborate upon moral values like respect, truthfulness, tolerance, happiness, honesty, loyalty, peace,
justice, responsibility, self-restraint are instilled in the thoughts, feelings and actions of the children
and they function as ethics and principles that govern their actions in the life. Substantiate with
examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing the importance of family in strengthening moral values.
Introduction

If there is one cohesive, cementing force at the heart of traditional Indian society it is our family
system. It is a single, powerful strand which for centuries, has woven the tapestry of our rich, social
fabric replete with diversity, into a whole.
Body
Role of family in transforming children
Despite changing values, the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (world is one family) is ingrained
well in our minds, especially in India.
 Cohesive society: One of the main advantages of a joint family system is the strong bonding
it creates among siblings and other members of the family even while providing a sense of
security to the children.
 Virtues: It is believed that children who grow up in an extended family with grandparents,
aunts, uncles and cousins will imbibe the qualities of sharing, caring, empathy and
understanding.
 Emotional intelligence: The bonding and bonhomie one finds in close knit joint families has
a positive impact on the emotional quotient of children.
 Caring for the old: Family values play an important role in shaping the outlook of people.
Respect and care for elders are among the central principles in Indian family system.
 Unity: It should also be remembered that the family system creates a strong bond of unity at
an early age, paves the way for social cohesion and in a broader sense promotes national
unity.
 Morals: Adopting our age-old philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which embodies the
spirit of humanism, compassion, magnanimity and tolerance, family becomes the basic
building block of a harmonious, inclusive society.
 Peaceful world view: Family can shape the world view, foster and reinforce the value
system of the individuals and therefore, consequently, be the warp and weft of a
sustainable, peaceful, inclusive, prosperous world.
Conclusion
Children who grow up in an extended family not only imbibe qualities of tolerance, patience,
democratic attitude of accepting others’ viewpoints, but also develop sportsman’s spirit while
playing with siblings and cousins. Various age-old traditions, customs and ways of living are all
products of family system. In fact, the family system lays the seeds for social cohesion and
democratic thinking.
What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “In civilized life, law floats in a sea of
ethics”. – Earl Warren.
Difficulty level: Difficult.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Quotes
Wednesdays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Introduction:

Start by giving a simple understanding of the meaning of the quote.

Body:
Mention the relationship between laws and ethics. Write that law needs a proper process and is
support and supplemented by ethics. Write about law as a source of ethical guidance. Substantiate
with examples.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Laws refer to the set of codified norms which are enforced by the state. They act as external
obligations. On the other hand, ethics refer to the set of norms which guide our internal compass
and judgements. Laws and ethics both serve similar purposes of guiding human conduct so as to
make it conducive to civilized social existence. They enforce a sense of right and wrong.
Body
The quote implies that there is a foundation of ethical values for the law. In performing our legal
duties, we are also satisfying our ethical obligations. While in an uncivilized society, enactments of
tyranny or barbarism may motivate an obligation to obey the law. But in a civilized society, the
obligation to act ethically is not a result of supposed obligation to obey alone, but a result of the
binding ethical values that have informed the content of the law.
It is well known that those nations of the world, which are deemed civilized and well-constrained by
the rule of law, may be governed by laws that are not ethically sound. For instance, Slavery,
apartheid, and torture, have been perpetuated pursuant to the laws of many civilized countries.
Western liberal regimes of property, contract and tort law include doctrines and principles, the
applications of which result in predictable hardship for the poor and the vulnerable. Laws that
permit environmental degradation, capital punishment of the innocent and political corruption are
hardly ethical waters for any ship of state.
However, Laws can never be so exhaustive to cover each and every scenario possible. Hence, there
will always be scope for discretion. In such scenarios, ethical behaviour should come from within.
There are many scenarios where laws cannot exist. E.g. we cannot have strict laws to scrutinize
every small act of corruption. Even with laws, some unethical practices continue to exist. E.g. laws
for violence against women have existed for ages. But that hasn’t caused such acts to end.
Conclusion
Laws and ethics have their own unique position. Both are equally important and go hand in hand.
What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “The highest result of education is
tolerance” ― Helen Keller
Why the question:
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by explaining the quote in your word.
Body:

Write about tolerance and the ways it is developed. Mention the role of education in developing
tolerance and how it helps us overcome our biases and prejudices. Write about the limitations of
education in achieving tolerance. Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by emphasising on the importance of tolerance in the world.
Introduction
Education in its very essence means bringing out what is best in a person and providing him/her an
opportunity to realize his /her complete potentiality and giving rational touch to his feelings and
thoughts. Education is meant neither exclusively for employment nor entertainment and not even
for mere living but it is for life. So education cannot be an end in itself but it is only a means to an
end since end of education is character and tolerance.
Body
The more education an individual receives education, the more he/she realizes how much you do
not know. This then, becomes quite humbling. The uneducated are usually intolerant of others
because they live “self-centred” lives. They simply do not possess the knowledge to give them
perspective of the actual facts.
With the onset of globalisation and urbanisation, the diversity is increasing in all the societies and
countries all over the world. In any given region or society on earth we can easily find people
belonging to various religion and caste at any given moment. This being the case, tolerance is a
much needed ideology today.
Tolerance is the acknowledgement that no one person is the centre of the universe; that we are
mortal here in this world; that we are as infallible as anyone else; that we all make mistakes and fall
far short of perfection. So we find that Education is a great leveller. And this is what we call
tolerance.
Conclusion
Mahatma Gandhiji’s concept of Nayee Talim about education too had connection with tolerance as
he said the function of Nayee Talim is not to teach an occupation but through it to develop a
complete man.’ Thus here he brings in the concept of brotherhood of man.
So education must take up this task of cultivating the seeds of love and tolerance from the very
beginning as the child develops into complete man. Aristotle said ‘Educating the child without
educating the mind is no education at all.’ So true to his words education must be for transformation
and not just for information.
What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “Facts are many, but the truth is one”
– Rabindranath Tagore
Why the question:
Introduction:
Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote and highlighting its core meaning about
importance of truth.
Body:

Write about facts can be manipulated and manufactures to suits the narrative. Give examples of
justify your points. Mention that despite facts may point to different things generally the truth is only
one.
Conclusion:
Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote in the present day.
Introduction
Rabindranath Tagore, India’s first Nobel laureate, will always be remembered in India as his poetic
composition reverberates in our hearts and spirits in the form of our national anthem. A poet,
philosopher, patriot, and a social thinker put in one, Tagore is one of the greatest revolutionaries
India has produced. Tagore felt nature is a treasure of wisdom and hence education must happen in
a natural setting. He championed the ideals of naturalism, humanism, internationalism and idealism.
Body
A fact is something that’s indisputable, based on empirical research and quantifiable measures.
Facts go beyond theories. They’re proven through calculation and experience, or they’re something
that definitively occurred in the past.
Truth is entirely different; it may include fact, but it can also include belief. Oftentimes, people will
accept things as true because they fall closer to their comfort zones, are assimilated easily into their
comfort zones, or reflect their preconceived notions of reality.
The difference between fact and truth is that fact is something that exists in real form, while Truth is
the true state of a particular thing or a matter like a person, place, animal or thing. Well, facts are
things that can be seen visually and can be verified properly. Fact is indisputable while truth is
acceptable. To call something a fact is, presumably, to make a claim that it is true. This isn’t a
problem for many things, although defending such a claim can be harder than you think.
Truth used to be an absolute. In today’s world, it feels less so. While facts have always been cherry-
picked to make an argument stand, the ability to see and understand the context of those facts used
to be more of a constant.
In this post-truth era, perception is real, truth is not. Here, one chooses the narrative first and the
facts will follow. And the data will meekly fit into the groove because, like water, it takes the shape
of the container in which the narrative is served. Once you have picked your own narrative, you have
chosen your own truth, a truth untainted by objective reality.
Conclusion
From an endless stream of political misinformation to inescapable lies on social media, the signs that
we are living in a post-truth world are hard to ignore. Thus, there must be earnest efforts to ensure
that truth is upheld despite many facts.
The emotional and ethical foundation we give our children at home is foundational to
their life. Elaborate. (150 words)
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Conceptual
Tuesdays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
To write about the role of family in providing emotional and ethical foundation to their children.

Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin the answer by mentioning the role of family in inculcating values in children.
Body:
First, write about family as an institution of socialization for a person is his/her family. Since values
have an affective component, family plays a major role in an individual subscribing to certain values.
Mention as to how these lay foundation to strong emotional and ethical foundation in children’s life.
Next, write about the importance of above.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Childhood is a crucial time in a child’s development because this period lays the foundations for the
child’s learning and well-being throughout their life. It is therefore considered to be the most
important phase of development in life, that which shapes the adults and consequently the society
of tomorrow. Protecting and safeguarding children’s development over this period is therefore of
the utmost importance for parents, states and all individuals who want to contribute to building a
better world.
Body
As such, children’s early experiences shape their whole life. These early experiences lay the
foundations of a child’s brain architecture, and strongly influence the strength or weakness of the
child’s ability to learn, their health and their behaviour throughout their life.
Every child is influenced by its environment and the very first environment of a child is the home.
Parents are the most influential personalities in a child’s life. The way it learns to walk, talk and
comprehend the world, is through the foundational values that the parents impart.
A child needs to learn to respect other human beings, be kind and be in one with the rights and laws
of the land. A child needs to be disciplined when there is a wrong doing. At the same time, child
must have a stable environment at home without causing any traumas. This happens when a child is
abused and is disciplined in a violent way.
A child’s environment includes not only their close family, i.e. their parents, but also their family in
a broader sense, their community, and even the country in which they live. It is therefore crucial to
understand that healthy early childhood development involves everyone: parents, family, civil
society, and government.
Conclusion
It is important to understand that a healthy start in life gives each child an equal chance to flourish
and become an adult who contributes positively to the community, both economically and socially
(WHO). This start continues however to be conditioned by a number of factors relating to home life,
community and the child’s environment. As such, a child in the early years of life needs to be
stimulated and to receive care and protection at home and in their community.

What does this quote means to you? (150 words)“A person may cause evil to others not
only by his actions but by his inaction, and in either case he is justly accountable to
them for the injury.” ― John Stuart Mill
Why the question:
Introduction:
inaction.
Body:
Write about how bad actions can lead to evil in the society. However, also emphasise that inaction
could also be lead to evil, that is, failure to stop evil despite having the means to do so. Mention that
inaction is also accountable for failing to prevent evil. Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Introduction
As per Mill, a person taking the easy choice of not doing anything through his inaction or being
oblivious to something, he is to be held accountable. Normally, to make anyone answerable for
doing evil to others is the rule; to make him answerable for not preventing evil is, comparatively
speaking, the exception. Yet there are many cases clear enough and grave enough to justify that
exception
Body
Anything one does has consequences. There is no true ‘inaction.’ There is only “Do A” or “Do B.” As
John Stuart Mill points out, the difference between what we call “inaction” as opposed to what we
call “action” is relevant to the balance between law, social opprobrium and individual conscience as
checks against a socially bad choice. But the fact that something is called “inaction” does not make it
any more innocent when one is examining oneself.
Take the example of the Nazi Germany, the fact that millions of Germans turned a blind eye towards
the atrocities inflicted on Jews shows how grave inaction of people can lead to a holocaust. Germans
collectively failed their fellow Jews through inaction and the cruelty became banal and ordinary as a
day-to-day happening.
By choosing to not act regarding a situation, one may be excusing himself from preventing an evil.
Take for example, the act of voting, by not voting, which is a duty of a responsible citizen, he or she
is enabling a tyrant to take control of the State.
Conclusion
Hence inaction is also injurious in many situations and those who are guilty of inaction must also be
held accountable. If we do nothing, nothing will change. So, inaction is worse than making a bad
decision. One must not be a fence-sitter, rather always take a decision and act upon it. Only then,
there can be experiences learning and personal growth.

What does this quote means to you? (150 words) “The secret of happiness, you see, is
not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.” ― Socrates
Why the question:
Introduction:
inaction.
Body:
Write about the importance of contentment. Mention the when humans seek to desire more, it leads
to greed and ethics and moral are violated for the gratification of the greed. When we have
contentment in life, we enjoy whatever we have. Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Introduction
For Socrates, one of the greatest ancient thinkers, happiness doesn't come from external rewards or
accolades. It comes from the private, internal success people bestow upon themselves. By paring
down our needs, we can learn to appreciate simpler pleasures.
It's not a gift other people or things give to us, in other words. It's something we create from within
and have a responsibility to protect.
Body
We usually equate happiness to having more in life. And by more, we think of physical possessions.
But route to minimalism is the key to happiness. Socrates taught us to be happy with less. In other
words, enjoy the things you have today instead of worrying about those things that you cannot
possess.
The idea of “less is more” is not about owning less for the sake of having less. It is about our
capacity to enjoy with less things in life. To some, our less might be a lot to them, and vice-versa.
Each and every one has to find their own capacity to enjoy life, that is the key to happiness.
Enjoying less can also turn modest pleasures into a luxury. Sometimes, it can be saving the planet
from exploitation as well and key to climate change. Minimalism can become a solution to many of
earth’s resource problem. It can lead to sustainable living.
Socrates makes it clear that the key to happiness is not to be found in the goods that one
accumulates, or even the projects that form the ingredients of one’s life, but rather in the agency of
the person himself who gives her life a direction and focus. Also clear from this is a repudiation of
the idea that happiness consists merely in the satisfaction of our desires. For in order to determine
which desires are worth satisfying, we have to apply our critical and reflective intelligence.
Conclusion
Socrates recommended gaining rational control over your desires and harmonizing the
different parts of your soul. Doing so would produce a divine-like state of inner tranquillity that the

external would could not effect. True to his word, he cheerfully faced his own death, discussing
philosophy right up to the moments before he took the lethal hemlock.
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service , integrity, impartiality and non-
partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and
compassion towards the weaker sections.
Integrity isn’t fidelity to your beliefs. It’s fidelity to seeking the truth. Comment. (150
words)
Why the question:
Directive Word:
Comment- here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall
opinion thereupon.
Introduction:
Begin by giving a definition of Integrity.
Body:
Write about the various dimensions of Integrity and mention how it is important to uphold the value
for the purpose of the value in itself as promoting truth and not as an aspect of one’s belief with few
examples.
Conclusion:
Summarise by highlighting the aspects stressed in body of the answer and conclude Integrity as a
core aspect of truth.
Introduction
Integrity is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles, or moral uprightness. It is
a personal choice to hold one’s self to consistent standards. One can describe a person as having
ethical integrity to the extent that the individual’s actions, beliefs, methods, measures and principles
all derive from a single core group of values. An individual must therefore be flexible and willing to
adjust these values to maintain consistency when these values are challenged such as when an
expected test result is not congruent with all observed outcomes.
Body
Integrity can be described as the strength of someone’s honesty and ethical standing. A person
with strong integrity is less likely to be influenced by those of a lesser moral value. You can
have honesty without integrity, but you cannot have integrity without honesty.
For instance, a person finds a wallet on the side of the road pick it up and takes it for himself. When
questioned by a family member as to who the wallet belongs the person states his intention that he
found it and intends to keep it. The person is exhibiting the trait of honesty but not integrity as he
makes no effort to return the wallet to the rightful owner. He is stealing essentially even if he is been
honest.

Honesty is about telling the truth, both in word and deed. Integrity goes a bit further. It means being
true to who you are, what you say, and what you believe. And doing so even when no one is
around to see.
For instance, before students enter the taekwondo training floor, they bow to the national flags kept
there as a sign of respect. But even when no one is around a person of integrity bows. Integrity
demands that you make that sign of respect, that bow, even if no one in the world is around to see
you do it.
Thus, integrity is not just being in sync with your beliefs only, but it is all about being in line with
Truth, even when none is watching you.
Conclusion
Integrity is a personal choice, an uncompromising and consistent commitment to honour moral,

ethical, spiritual and artistic values and principles. Integrity compels us to be socially conscious and
to welcome both personal and professional responsibility. Its values encourage us to be honest in all
our dealings and committed to a lifelong search for truth and justice. It requires self-discipline and
will power capable of resisting temptation. Its priceless reward is peace of mind and true dignity.
There’s one proviso, no one can guarantee that his or her particular version of integrity is actually
sound and true, and not misguided.
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and
behavior; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion
What is public morality? Is public morality at time antithetical to individual rights?
Critically examine. (150 words)
Why the question:
Directive word:
Critically examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we have to look into the topic (content words) in
detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question.
While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the
topic and give a fair judgment.
Introduction:
Give a simple elaboration on the concept of public morality.
Body:
Write about aspects such as what is accepted within the realms of public morality, is it static and
indestructible by quoting few examples. Influence of public morality on legislations and the changes
with time such as legalisation of same-sex marriage etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stating that society evolves with time and thus the public morality also takes its shape,
however certain historically sustainable values must be preserved as well.
Introduction

A morality is a system of principles and values concerning people’s behaviour, which

is generally accepted by a society or by a particular group of people. Public morality refers to moral
and ethical standards enforced in a society, by law or police work or social pressure, and applied to
public life, to the content of the media, and to conduct in public places.
Body
Public morality is not antithetical to individual rights
Public morality is concerned with collective obligations, and is generally based on the notion of
consequentialism. For instance, Public morality often means regulation of sexual matters,
including prostitution and homosexuality, but also matters of dress and nudity, pornography,
acceptability in social terms of cohabitation before marriage, and the protection of children.
It is a main justification for censorship; it can lead to campaigns against profanity, and so be at odds
with freedom of speech. Gambling is generally controlled: casinos have been considered much more
of a threat than large-scale lotteries or football pools. Public drunkenness is quite unacceptable in
some societies, and legal control of consumption of alcohol is often justified in terms of public
morality, just as much as for medical reasons or to limit alcohol-related crime.
Public morality at times is antithetical to individual rights
Abortion is sometimes treated as an aspect of public morality, even if it is legally defined, regulated
by medical professionals, and almost entirely hidden from public view. There have been deaths of
individuals as in the case of Savitha Hallappanavar, an NRI in Ireland. AIDS as a health policy issue is
linked to public morality in a complicated manner and individuals are discriminated leading to
violation of human rights. Back in the day, Sati was an accepted public morality norm which over
time was weeded out.
However, Views on public morality do change over time. Public views on which things are acceptable
often move towards wider tolerance.
Conclusion
Public morality has been on a decline due to a host of factors such as legal, corruption, malpractices,
cultural etc. Citizens in a political community must be bound together neither by feelings nor by self-
interest but by a commitment to common values discovered by public reason — values such as
political freedom, solidarity, shared traditions and cultural heritage.
Ethical leaders can positively influence many others, presenting them with a set of
actions that they can adopt for the greater good. Analyse. (150 words)
Why the question:
To understand the various roles and responsibilities of a leader and the importance of ethics
leadership in their work domain
Directive word:
Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the
topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.

Introduction:
Begin by defining what is leadership along with few traits of a good leader.
Body:
Highlight the need for an ethical leader in the present context of rising scams and blind race against
mere monetary gains of businesses. Give few examples highlighting cases of leadership with and
without ethics and its impact on the organisation as well as the society.
Conclusion:
Conclude by summarising the above points highlighting the need for ethical leadership
Introduction
From a collective perspective, leaders can inspire those around them to behave ethically. By setting
an example and giving the direction for ethical behaviour, others will observe and act similarly. In
this way, ethical leaders can positively influence many others, presenting them with a set of actions
that they can adopt for the greater good.
Body
Lao Tzu said “The best way to do is to be.”
Gandhiji showed the world by attaining freedom for India that only truth and non-violence can help
achieve even the most impossible targets. He led by example and demonstrated the power of the
principles he followed during non-cooperation movement, the Dandi March and Quit India
movement.
Nelson Mandela, another leader sacrificed his life for the sake of South Africa and was jailed for 27
years. He never lost his focus on the vision of Independence and gave everything he had to ensure
the same.
Abraham Lincoln’s existence on this planet was a true gift for humanity. His fight for equality and
the will to bring people together for the greater good was as astounding today as unimaginable
then.
Traits of ethical leadership
 Honesty: Honesty makes ethical leaders worthy of the trust others place in them. It means
leaders commit to presenting facts as they are, playing fair with competitors, and
communicating honestly with others.
 Justice: To be fair means to treat everyone equally, offer opportunities with no favouritism,
and condemn improper behaviours and manipulations, as well as any other actions that
could harm someone.
 Respect: Ethical leaders respect others around them, regardless of their position or
identifying characteristics. This means they listen to each stakeholder, foster inclusion, and
value diversity.
 Integrity: Integrity is shown when values, words, and actions are aligned and consistent. It is
not enough to talk the talk; one has to walk the walk to demonstrate integrity.
 Responsibility: Responsibility means accepting to be in charge, embracing the power and

duties that come with it, and always responding and being present in challenging situations.

 Transparency: Transparency concerns mainly the communication with all stakeholders. It

means keeping an open dialogue, accepting feedback, and disclosing the information others
need to deliver their work.
Conclusion
Ethical leadership is of great importance. A good leader is followed, but a moral leader is
respected and trusted. In ethical leadership, leaders are supposed to lead their peers by their own
ethical activities. Behaving in an honest, ethical, and unselfish manner is pivotal in setting examples
for others.
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.

Morality would be very shallow and almost meaningless, if the sole moral imperatives
were to seek happiness and avoid the miseries for ourselves. Critically Analyse. (150
words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: A Practical Approach to Ethics Integrity and Aptitude D.K Balaji.
Why the question:
To form a critique of hedonism. (You must remember that in the exam, UPSC may give a short
description of the theory rather than name of the theory itself. You should be able to identify it to
understand the core demand of the question)
Directive word:
Critically analyse – When asked to analyse, you have to examine methodically the structure or
nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them as a whole in a summary.
When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the
topic and give a fair judgment.
Introduction:
Begin by further elaborating on the theory of hedonism and its idea behind a morally justified action.
Body:
Argue as to how, though according to the theory seeking happiness and avoid the miseries may be
morally justified but there may not be any point to that sort of morality which promotes self-interest.
With examples, substantiate on the point that what maybe be good or right for an individual may not
be good for the society/community/country. Hence, this sort of morality is meaningless.
Conclusion:
Mention the importance of that we need to think beyond individual happiness especially in the times
that we are living in.
Introduction
The above statement on morality explains Bentham’s Utilitarianism. According

to Bentham, production of pleasure or pain is the sole consideration by which we are to judge the
moral worth of an action. But this takes a narrow view of morality, if pleasure and pain are the sole
imperatives.
Body
If every action that we do seeks to increase our happiness and reduce our miseries, then such
actions may cause misery to increase. Greed, selfishness, self-interest are three villains in this
situation which may harm the individual against whom we take the action.
For instance, British imperialism increased their coffers and drained India. This collectively ruined
the fabric of Indian subcontinent which ultimately led to partition and its horrors. Such actions which
made Britain more prosperous cannot be called as moral.
Nature has placed mankind under the governance of two sovereign masters, pain and pleasure. It is
for them alone to point out what we ought to do, as well as to determine what we shall do. On the
one hand the standard of right and wrong, on the other the chain of causes and effects, are fastened
to their throne. They govern us in all we do, in all we say, in all we think: every effort we can make to
throw off our subjection, will serve but to demonstrate and confirm it. In words a man may pretend
to abjure their empire: but in reality, he will remain subject to it all the while. The principle of utility
recognizes this subjection, and assumes it for the foundation of that system, the object of which is to
rear the fabric of felicity by the hands of reason and of law. Systems which attempt to question it,
deal in sounds instead of sense, in caprice instead of reason, in darkness instead of light.
This is the essence of the statement.
Conclusion
Bentham is too optimistic that self-interest and utility will always coincide. Moreover, the hope of
return from doing good to others is not likely to push one into action, for in many a case it is possible
that the cost will be much greater than what one gains. One more point is that the coincidence of
public and private utility provides no real evidence that people are not always narrowly self-
interested; even doing good to others is because of the hope to get one’s own pleasure.
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and

problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions;
laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance;
accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values
in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding;
What are the ways of strengthening and improving the moral character of civil
servants? (150 words)

‘Philosophical Mondays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Key Demand of the question: To write about the ways to strengthen moral character among civil
servants.
Introduction:
Begin by defining moral character.
Body:
With examples, write ways to strengthen moral characters in civil servants – training, creating a
value system, rewards and punishment etc.

Conclusion:
Mention the importance of having civil servants of high moral character in administration.
Introduction
Moral character is perhaps best described as the totality of a person’s dispositions or characteristics
that play a role in how the person, morally speaking, behaves. To put it another way, to have a
particular moral character is to have or to lack certain virtues and vices of character.
Body
Ways of strengthening and improving the moral character of civil servants
 Avoid conflict of interests-Setting accountability clearly demarcates area of one’s actions

where he or she is required to act.
 Civil Servant needs to take pride in integrity such as procedural integrity where there is a lot
of discretion. This will help in valuing taxpayer’s hard-earned money and ensure proper
utilisation of funds.
 There is need to create a sense of responsibility amongst Civil Servants, wherein they
understand that power is not a privilege and need to keep away from usurpation of power.
 There is also a need to promote values learned from the lives of great leaders like Mahatma
Gandhi, Mother Teresa and Swami Vivekananda, to become the true steel frame of the
country.
 Civil Servant also needs to follow the principle of sustainable development and trusteeship
so as to help India achieve ‘common future’ or ‘sustainable future’ targets.
 The techniques of attitude and behavioural change like cognitive appeal, emotional appeal
needs to be adopted.
 Further, serving Civil Servant need to be advised to practice code of ethics and code of
conduct. Training in this regard must be given due importance.
 Improve the emotional intelligence quotient of an officer by more field visits and
understanding the hardships of the people.
Conclusion
Ethics, whether in an entire society, or in a social sub-system, evolves over a long period of time.
Different institutions impact the ethical behaviour of individuals in different manner. Thus, value
based education, good governance, self-realization, just laws, code of ethics and code of conducts
are essential to build an ethically just society and state.
Do you think that drug addiction must be treated with an empathetic approach by
viewing addict as a victim rather than a criminal? Critically analyse. (150 words)
Reference: Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude by Lexicon Publications.
Why the question:

To write about taking an empathetic approach towards helping drug addicts recover from drug
addiction.
Directive:
Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature
of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’
is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a
balanced judgment on the topic.
Introduction:
Begin by stating that concept of retribution and deterrence approach to counter drug menace has
not been fruitful and has only led to the drug networks remaining underground.
Body:
First mention that the harsh approach has created a lot of stigma and lack of intent to approach
medical institutions people addicted to drugs. Many a times being unaware and unguided, leads to
overdoses and death.
Next, state the need for a humane and persuasive approach to deaddiction on lines of Portugal
model. This would lead to a number of people voluntarily accessing the public health care facilities
for drug related concerns.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stating that human rights and public health must be centre of the discourse rather than
punishing the victims of drug addiction.
Introduction
Substance abuse disorder, or drug addiction, can be defined as a progressive disease that causes
people to lose control of the use of some substance despite worsening consequences of that use.
Substance use disorder can be life-threatening.
Body
Issues with treating drug addict as a criminal

 The idea of treating drug users as criminals came from the fact they use or are in possession
of drugs, which by law are declared illegal.
 According to legal logic, anybody who uses or is in possession of illegal things, be they drugs,
guns or counterfeit money, is deemed a law offender.
 It dissuades the other drug addicts to get themselves absolved of the addiction.
 The stigma attached to drug addicts will further catapult.
Drug addicts should be treated as a victim
 Addiction should not be seen as a character flaw, but as an ailment that any other person
could be struggling with. Therefore, the stigma associated with drug taking needs to be
reduced. Society needs to understand that drug-addicts are victims and not criminals.
 Drug addiction is also considered a form of social disease, like prostitution. Not so long ago
HIV was also regarded a social disease.

 All the available evidence shows, beyond any doubt, that punitive measures alone, no
matter how harsh, do not achieve the goal of reducing drug consumption.
 Worse, in many cases prohibition and punishment have disastrous consequences.
 That is why Laws on narcotics and addictive drugs provides treatment and rehabilitation for
drug addicts, but not for drug traffickers or dealers
 The stigmatization of drug users, the fear of police repression and the risk of criminal
prosecution make access to treatment much more difficult.
 Instead of insisting on repressive measures that are, at best ineffective, at worst

counterproductive, it chose a bold approach that favours more humane and efficient
policies.
Portugal Model of Drug Policy
 Portugal’s national drug policy represents a desirable paradigm shift in global drug policy.
 Under the new strategy, the purchase, possession, and consumption of illicit drugs have
been downgraded from criminal to administrative offenses.
 A key concept underlying Portugal’s drug policy is prevention
 Portugal is wisely investing in harm reduction and in forms of social regulation to reduce
drug consumption. That is why it puts so much emphasis on dissuasion and prevention.
 Portugal proves that decriminalization does not increase drug use. To the contrary, it has
demonstrated that humanitarian and pragmatic strategies can, in fact, reduce drug
consumption, addiction, recidivism, and HIV infection.
 Preventive measures may only be effective when they are systematic and not onetime
actions
Conclusion
Recognition of the need to respect human dignity, understand the life choices and social
circumstances of others, and uphold the constitutional right to health lay behind the change of
approach toward drug consumption.
Restoring trust and integrity in public institutions and officials is key to safeguarding
democracy and promote better governance. Discuss. (150 words)
Why the question:
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context regarding eroding trust in public institutions and civil servants.
Body:

Write about the impact of lack of trust in public institutions and officials. Write ways in which trust
could be restored – transparency, accountability, accessibility and code of ethics etc. Elaborate with
examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by mentioning as to how the above lead to safeguarding democracy and good governance.
Introduction
Trust is the foundation upon which the legitimacy of public institutions is built and is crucial
for maintaining social cohesion. Trust in institutions requires that these institutions are competent
and effective in delivering on their goals, but also that they operate consistently with a set of values
that reflect citizens’ expectations of integrity and fairness.
Body
Government’s values, such as high levels of integrity, fairness and openness of institutions
are strong predictors of public trust. Similarly, government’s competence – its responsiveness and
reliability in delivering public services and anticipating new needs – are crucial for boosting trust in
institutions.
For instance, in handling pandemics like the covid-19, people followed strict lockdown
protocols in the first wave. However, the same doesn’t seem to be happening the second time, after
the economic distress in India.
Reasons for loss of trust in public institutions
 There are many reasons behind this heightened sense of dissatisfaction—the long tail of the
global financial crisis, a perception that economic rewards are not being shared fairly, and
growing anxiety about future job prospects.
 Of all the reason Corruption is the major reasons for loss of trust in public institutions and
government in India. Eg: 2G scam, Commonwealth scam were reasons for fall of UPA
government.
 At the all-India level, there was considerable lack of trust in state governments on looking after
people in 2005, with just under 30% of households reporting a great deal of confidence.
 Rising poverty, distress and inequality is driving eroding trust in India. Eg: Migrant crisis during
lockdown disenchanted the poor regarding State’s welfare approach.
 Although the judiciary is autonomous, its role in delivering justice fairly and promptly has
become more controversial in recent years. A majority of households displayed a great deal of
confidence in the judiciary, while a small proportion expressed hardly any confidence.
 Justice delivery and the police are interlinked, as the latter are responsible for law enforcement.
To the extent that criminalization of politics manifests itself in corruption observed in both, trust
in these institutions is likely to be systemic.
Measures to improve trust in public institutions:
Government’s values, such as high levels of integrity, fairness and openness of institutions
are strong predictors of public trust. Similarly, government’s competence – its responsiveness and
reliability in delivering public services and anticipating new needs – are crucial for boosting trust in
institutions.

 Integrity seems to be most essential to trust in government. Integrity tools and mechanisms,
that are essential public governance processes, are aimed at preventing corruption (which is the
outcome) and fostering high standards of behaviour, helping to reinforce the credibility and
legitimacy of the actors involved in policy decision making, safeguarding the public interest and
restoring a sense of fairness of policy decisions.
 Reliability: the ability of governments to minimise uncertainty in the economic, social and
political environment of their citizens, and to act in a consistent and predictable manner.
 Responsiveness: the provision of accessible, efficient and citizen-oriented public services that
effectively address the needs and expectations of the public.
 Openness and inclusiveness: a systemic, comprehensive approach to institutionalising a two-
way communication with stakeholders, whereby relevant, usable information is provided, and
interaction is fostered as a means to improve transparency, accountability and engagement.
 Integrity: the alignment of government and public institutions with broader principles and
standards of conduct that contribute to safeguarding the public interest while preventing
corruption.
 Fairness: in a procedural sense the consistent treatment of citizens (and businesses) in the
policy-making and policy-implementation processes.
 Functionalising citizen charters in letter and spirit with a proper grievance redressal
mechanisms.
 Communication and consultation with public regarding major issues and taking them in
confidence before any major policy changes.
Conclusion
In unprecedented times like this, renewed focus on trust in government can bring a new perspective
to public governance, enhancing the role of the citizens. At an institutional level, this should
reinforce the notion of a social contract between citizens and the state, where the former contribute
not only by paying taxes and obeying the law, but also by being receptive to public policies and co-
operating in their design and implementation. To gain this support from citizens, however,
governments need to be more inclusive, more transparent, more receptive and more efficient.
Recognising and better understanding the critical role that trust plays in effective public policies
should assist governments better shape their policy and reform agendas, improving outcomes for all.


Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of

governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government,
Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work
culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of
corruption.
Whistleblowing is one of the most effective ways to detect and prevent corruption and
malpractices. Elaborate.
‘Abstract Thursdays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Key demand of the question: Explain in detail the act of whistle blower and how it can have both
perspectives.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Explain what is whistle blowing.
Body:

Explain What are the moral and ethical justification of whistleblowing – whistleblowing is morally
required when it is required at all; people have a moral obligation to prevent serious harm to others if
they can do so with little costs to themselves. Give examples to justify your points.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stressing on the need of whistle-blower protection
Introduction
A whistle-blower is a person who comes forward and shares his/her knowledge on any wrongdoing
which he/she thinks is happening in the whole organisation or in a specific department. A whistle-
blower could be an employee, contractor, or a supplier who becomes aware of any illegal
activities. Personal Values and Organizational Culture are the Foundation of Whistle-blowing
A good civil servant is one who is kind, responsive, fair, has sense of duty, objective judgement
skills with a hint of rebellion.
Body
In the course of civil service, an officer is bound to face challenges of various types. One must find
innovative solutions to such problems by working around the problems. However, when there are
inevitable situations, it becomes necessary to whistle blow, albeit within the system.
Merits of whistleblowing:
 Exposing Unethical Behaviour: When corporations and government agencies step over legal
and ethical lines, whistle-blowers can make these practices public knowledge, which can
lead to violators being held accountable.
 Take care of things internally: Stronger whistle-blower protection laws all over the world,
such as in the EU and Australia, mean that if you do not listen to and act upon
whistleblowing tips internally, people may decide to report externally, for example to the
media, and are legally protected if they do so.
 Reduce losses when misconduct occurs: Whistleblowing benefits organisations through

significant loss savings. Organisations that did not have a whistleblowing system in place
suffered losses that were twice the size compared to those who did have a whistleblowing
system.
 Build trust in your brand: 50% of the participants responded that building trust was the
main benefit of a whistleblowing system. An openness to whistleblowing demonstrates a
commitment to high ethical standards and builds trust in the company.
 Ensure legal compliance: Having a system in place for whistleblowing benefits organisations
by reducing compliance risk.
Demerits of whistleblowing:
 The world, government, corporates and even society to an extent do not like whistle-
blowers and some countries go so far as to call them ‘traitors’
 The case of Edward Snowden and Julian Assange of Wikileaks proves the point
 Whistle-blowers face legal action, criminal charges, social stigma, and termination from any
position, office, or job.

 Vindictive tactics to make the individual’s work more difficult and/or insignificant,
assassination of character, formal reprimand, and difficult court proceedings
Ethical perspective:
The ethics of whistleblowing is a tricky matter. Whistle-blowing brings two moral values, fairness
and loyalty, into conflict.
In the case where a company does serious harm through its service or product, the disclosure of
such information for the sake of public constitute the ground for an understanding that takes
whistleblowing as an ethical behaviour.
The situations where whistleblowing is morally justified:
 Whenever and wherever the product/service of the firm will cause considerable harm to the
public.
 Whenever an employee feels serious threat or harm to him or anybody he should report to
the firm.
 If an immediate boss does not care for report (whistle blowing) the employee should go up
to highest level to present his case.
Conclusion
A good civil servant would adhere to the foundational principles and fight against corrupt practices
in a pragmatic way as the situation demands.
Does accountability foster ethical or morally responsible behaviour in public servants?

Critically analyse. (150 Words)
Difficulty Level: Tough
Why the question:
Directive word:
Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature
of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’
is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a
balanced judgment on the topic.
Key Demand of the question: To write about the role of accountability in fostering ethical behaviour
and its limitations.
Introduction:
Begin by defining accountability.
Body:
Write about how accountability and its various mechanisms to enforce it leads to ethical behaviour in
public servants – Code of ethics, vigilance RTI, Lokpal and courts make civil servants act ethically and
prevent any divergent behaviour. However, mention that despite having accountability mechanisms
public servants have acted unethically. Substantiate with examples.
Conclusion:
Conclude by mentioning ways to create stronger accountability mechanisms.
Introduction

Accountability in ethics is taking ownership for outcomes (successes or failures) while addressing
performance issues fairly and promptly. The ability of citizens to demand accountability and more
open government is fundamental to good governance. Ethics and accountability are important
elements for modern government as in majority of the countries, there is a severe crisis of
legitimacy.
Body
Accountability ensures ethical responsible behaviour
 Accountability ensures rule of law and respect for institutions.
 It ensures transparency in operations by having checks and balances and time-bound service
delivery.
 It ensures commitment to promises, manifestos and citizen’s charters.
 It empowers citizens and aids their development through citizen-centric policies.
 It ensures judicious use of public funds and resources and hence, infuses the efficiency in
governance.
 It reduces corruption and builds trust among the governors and the governed.
 Ensures that the grass roots level problems are effectively addressed.
 Improves last mile outreach and helps bring in a change in attitude of bureaucracy.
However, there are instances where Accountability is ignored
 RTI Act is blatantly ignored by emphasizing more on Official Secrets Act.
 Conflicts of Interest are often seen especially in cases of tenders for Govt projects.
 Corruption is still a searing wound festering in the fields of Governance.
Conclusion
Accountability is intended to make public officials answerable for their behaviour and responsive to
the entity from which they derive their authority. Accountability also indicates establishing criteria
to measure the performance of public officials, as well as oversight mechanisms to ensure that
standards are met.
Value addition
Ways to build and maintain a culture of accountability in government organisations
To Ensure effective accountability, the following steps can be taken
 Protection of whistle-blowers through legislation.
 Mechanisms like social audit in MGNREGA, Gram Sabha involves people in decision making
process. This ensures accountability as well as equality principle as decision making is not left
in the hands of few people.
 E-Governance initiatives for providing an accountable administration include a framework

for efficient handling of public grievances through the Centralised Public Grievance Redress
and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) which is already in place.
 Encouraging Citizens’ Participation through RTI in local languages.
 Citizen’s Charter can be used for improving the delivery of goods and services provided by
the Government.
 Lokpal and Lokayuktas being independent investigation agencies can make an impartial
enquiry on corruption related offences across all public organizations.
 Promoting Competition and discouraging monopolistic attitude among the public service
sectors
 System of checks and balance makes sure there is no concentration of power and each organ
accountable for their actions. Thus, governance is carried in the interests of people. Ex:
Judiciary through Review power(A-32) strikes down laws which are inconsistent with
constitutional values
A Citizens’ Charter represents the commitment of the Organisation towards standard,

quality and time frame of service delivery, grievance redress mechanism, transparency
and accountability. Discuss. (150 words)
Why the question:
To explain the concept of citizen charters and its importance.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin the answer by defining a citizen charter.
Body:
First, discuss the core principles of a citizen’s charter; Awareness: About citizen’s entitlements; time,
period and quality of service delivery, Simple to understand, Moral backing, Accountability: Individual
and of organization, Transparency: Rules/ Procedures/ Schemes/Grievances, Empowerment: Citizens
especially weaker sections.
Next, write about the importance of above.
Conclusion:
Introduction
A Citizens’ Charter is a set of commitments made by an organisation regarding the standards of

service which it delivers. It covers not only the Central Government Ministries/ Departments/
Organizations but also the Departments/ Agencies of State Governments and UT Administrations. As
an instrument, it is propagated to make an organization transparent, accountable and citizen
friendly.
Body

The basic objective of the Citizens Charter is to empower the citizen in relation to public service
delivery.
Importance of Citizen’s charter in the Governance of developing nation like India
 Citizen Charter increases participation of common man in efficient working of an organization by

making the citizens aware of the aims and goals of the organization.
 It helps in reducing corruption through transparent provisions and thus, ensures accountability
 It leads to citizen friendliness and citizen convenience and raises efficiency and effectiveness in
public delivery system.
 It reduces cost, prevents delay and red tapism and thus promote good governance.
 Citizen Charter set standards of service, allowing high expectations from an organization,
pushing them to work diligently.
 It encourages access and promote choice and thus, treat all fairly.
Shortcomings of Citizen’s Charter in India
 It has become one of the routine activities of the organisation and had no focus.
 In many cases, the concerned staff are not adequately trained and sensitised.
 Sometimes, transfers and reshuffles of concerned officers at the crucial stages of

formulation/implementation of a Citizens’ Charter in an organisation severely undermined the
strategic processes which were put in place and hampered the progress of the initiative.
 Lack of awareness and knowledge and inadequate publicity, led to loss of trust among service
seekers.
 Lack of infrastructure and initiative defeated the very purpose of citizen’s charter.
 Different mind-sets of officers and the Staff- Insensitiveness on the part of the Supervisors and
the Staff because they are yet to be sensitised.
 Staff is not prepared to shoulder the responsibility due to lack of motivation and accountability.
 Non-revision, complicated and restrictive rules & procedures reduced its effectiveness.
Reforming Citizen’s Charter to make them Effective:
 One size does not fit all: formulation of CC should be a decentralized activity with the head
office providing only broad guidelines.
 Wide consultation process: CC be formulated after extensive consultations within the

organization followed by a meaningful dialogue with civil society.
 Firm commitments to be made: CC must be precise and make firm commitments of service
delivery standards to the citizens/consumers in quantifiable terms wherever possible.
 Redressal mechanism in case of default: clearly lay down the relief which the organization is
bound to provide if it has defaulted on the promised standards of delivery.
 Periodic evaluation of CC: preferably through an external agency.

 Hold officers accountable for results: fix specific responsibility in cases where there is a default
in adhering to the CC.
 Include Civil Society in the process: to assist in improvement in the contents of the Charter, its
adherence as well as educating the citizens about the importance of this vital mechanism.
Conclusion
The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) in its12th Report entitled ‘Citizen Centric
Administration – Heart of Governance” has recommended for making the Citizens’ charters more
effective as a document for interacting with citizens. This recommendation has been accepted by
Government of India. All Central Ministries/Departments have been requested to review their
Citizens’ Charters to make them more effective as a tool for interacting with the citizens. It must be
implemented in the true spirit.
Case Studies on above issues.

You are the Excise Commissioner of state with a high rate of narcotic abuse and you under take a
potentially sweeping drug investigation with inter-State and international ramifications. You
appoint a well-equipped special squad for the same.
The drug case has its provenance in intelligence generated jointly by the State Excise
Enforcement Squad (SEES) and the Customs department. The Customs had intercepted
at least two air cargo parcels containing a significant amount of a banned narcotic. The
importers had used fake invoices and the services of a cargo agent to ship in the drug
from Spain surreptitiously.
The SEES learnt a well-heeled and influential youth with association with the ruling party was the
kingpin of the racket. The SEES intercepted a seven-member group, associated with the kingpin,
travelling in a van acting on a tip-off. The squad seized small quantity of banned narcotics and a
deer antler from the vehicle.
Based on information obtained from the gang, that the kingpin has stashed at least 2 kg of the
banned drug in an apartment, you immediately dispatch a part of the special squad headed by an
Additional Excise Commissioner.
However, for unknown reasons, the squad allowed the prime accused in the case to walk free and
not much of the banned drug was seized from the apartment. It also did not account for the
seizure of the deer antler. Moreover, the squad registered the existing case in a manner alleged to
be advantageous to the accused. Some officers refused in the squad to endorse the report and
registered their opposition in writing as the report was prepared nefariously.
The issue became a scandal after surveillance camera images of the accused moving the banned
drugs out of the apartment during the raid went viral. The “embarrassment” prompted Excise
Minister to order the internal inquiry headed by you. The opposition and media are relentless in
its criticism of how this case was handled.
1. As the excise commissioner, to what extent are you responsible for the failure of the
operation?

2. What are the reasons for the such lapses occurring on part of drug enforcement officials?
3. What course of action will you take to remedy this botch up?

‘Case Study Fridays’ in Mission-2022 Secure.
Introduction:
Give a brief introduction regarding struggles of fight against drugs and drug menace itself.
Body:
Cite the facts of the case and ethical values involved.
In detail, argue reasons as to why failure of the operation is your responsibility has the head of the
department. Albeit, not entirely, but you were at the helm of affairs.
Mention the various reasons for the lapses in drug enforcement – systemic, attitudinal and ethical
factors must be mentioned.
Draw out a detailed course of action to right the wrong that have been committed. Emphasis should
be holding the guilty accountable and solving the menace of drugs holistically in the long run.
Conclusion:
Mention long term solutions to put an end to the drug menace.
Introduction
The menace of drug addiction has spread fast among the youth of India. India is sandwiched
between two largest Opium producing regions of the world that is the Golden triangle on one side
and the Golden crescent on other. As per AIIMS report in 2018, around 5 crore Indians reported to
have used cannabis and opioids.
The youth in particular are at high risk due to drug abuse being rampant in that demography.
Ineffective policing, criminal activities, illicit drug trafficking are some reasons why drug abuse is still
continuing in India
Body
Stakeholders of the case
 Myself as Excise Commissioner and the squad members
 Excise minister of the state
 Youth of the state failing prey to drugs
 General public and Opposition influencing electoral behaviour
 General welfare of people at large
Ethical issues involved
 Drug abuse leading to violence, domestic abuse.
 Poor youth becoming drug addicts and decreasing their quality of life further.
 Human capital erosion.

 Depression, lethargy, hopelessness due to drug addiction.
 Corruption in the government body that tackles drug abuse.
 Prevailing justice will boost morale of officers to work better.
 Reformation of society if drug smuggling can be stopped
As the excise commissioner, to what extent are you responsible for the failure of the operation?
Being the excise commissioner, the execution of squad’s plan in capturing the youth with possession
of illicit drug was my duty.
 As the squad let the youth walk free, the action of the team in letting this happen and its
responsibility lies on me as an Excise commissioner.
 It also implies that the team members tipped off the accused and let him evade arrest.
Essentially, I was oblivious to the fact that few officers gave inside information to the
accused.
 Despite the botched-up operation, it must have been ensured that the accused was caught
later on, however that did not take place. A new team of trusted officials with spotless
record should have been formed to nab the accused faster.
 The fact that few officers did not agree with the report shows that, this was a job of handful
few. I should have done a background check of all the officers in the squad.
What are the reasons for the such lapses occurring on part of drug enforcement officials?
 Lack of Political Non-partisanship on part of the officers in the squad. They had greater
loyalty to their political masters than to their own duty.
 Politician criminal nexus: Threat from the accused who was deemed to be associated with
the ruling political party.
 Corrupt officials to took money from the accused and let him walk free.
 Integrity, a quality that makes an officer stands apart was missing in some members of the
squad.
 Political pressure from the ruling party to let the accused escape.
What course of action will you take to remedy this botch up?
 Take a first-hand detail of the whole raid and sequence of events from those trusted officers
who did not agree with the report.
 Ensure the integrity and honesty of Addl. Excise Commissioner through backchannel modes
and determine his role in the incident.
 Examine the video footage and surveillance camera thoroughly to piece all the information
together and reconstruct the whole scene.
 Make all efforts to snatch the accused with help of other police and intelligence agencies
 Suggest for body cameras and microphones for officer who conduct the raid so that all the
information and actions are captured for permanent usage.

 Henceforth, test the integrity of officers from time to time and determine which officers can
be trusted. E.g., Leak a hypothetical confidential information and trace the chain of people it
gets circulated or have informants within the organizations.
 Finally, conduct a thorough internal inquiry to bring those officers to task.
Long term measures:
 As an excise commissioner, I would take the matter with the central officials with the
permission of state CM, as there is drug inflow from international borders as it poses threat
to national security.
 At the office level, I would strengthen the vigilance cell as many of the custom officials are
glove in hand with the drug mafia.
 I would further try and seek to strengthen the intelligence networks so that the drug
trafficking can be curbed.
Conclusion
Drug addiction and trafficking can harm the national security and integrity of a nation and degrades
the human resource of a country. It is for this reason that officers involved in stopping illicit narcotics
use must be of impeccable integrity. The government with trusted officers needs to implement the
existing laws strictly to prevent drug trafficking and its resultant drug abuse.
Value addition:
Government of India flagged off the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan’ or a ‘Drugs-Free India
Campaign’ on 15th August 2020 across 272 districts of the country found to be most vulnerable
based on the data available from various sources. The focal points of the Campaign are preventive,
mass education and sensitization, capacity building of service providers, positive partnership with
educational institutions, and augmentation of treatment, rehabilitation and counselling facilities.
Case study of Punjab in anti-drug trafficking:
 The Punjab Police has launched an educational campaign, especially in schools and colleges,
against drug abuse and set up ‘Anti-drug Societies’ in the institutions.
 The enforcement, de-addiction, prevention (EDP) strategy of Punjab envisages integrated

social, health and criminal justice responses to manage the demand and supply of drugs.
 Punjab Government has set up 194 government Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment
(OOAT) Centres between October 26, 2017 and December 31, 2019 where alternate
medicines in the form of buprenorphine and naloxone are given to addicts.
 ‘Tu mera buddy’ programme is targeted at students in schools, colleges, universities and
technical institutions, and aims to penetrate every classroom from class VI upwards. Groups
of five or less children will be created to self-monitor and generate awareness.

A fresh engineering graduate gets a job in a prestigious chemical industry. She likes the
work. The salary is also good. However, after a few months she accidentally discovers
that a highly toxic waste is being secretly discharged into a river nearby. This is causing
health problems to the villagers downstream who depend on the river for their water
needs. She is perturbed and mentions her concern to her colleagues who have been
with the company for longer periods. They advise her to keep quite as anyone who
mentions the topic is summarily dismissed. She cannot risk losing her job as she is the
sole bread-winner for her family and has to support her ailing parents and siblings. At
first, she thinks that if her seniors are keeping quiet, why should she stick out her neck.
But her conscience pricks her to do something to save the river and the people who
depend upon it. At heart she feels that the advice of silence given by her friends is not
correct though she cannot give reasons for it. She thinks you are a wise person and
seeks your advice.
(a) What arguments can you advance to show her that keeping quiet is not morally right?
(b) What course of action would you advise her to adopt and why? (250 words)
Introduction:
Give a brief introduction regarding the facts of the case
Body:
In detail, argue reasons as to being silent and moral inaction is a not right in this above scenario.
Justify with ethical theories, examples and thinkers.
Draw out a detailed course of action to right the wrong that have been committed. Emphasis should
be holding the guilty accountable and solving the issue holistically in the long run.
Conclusion:
Mention long term solutions.
Introduction
The theme of the case study is centered around the negative externalities of modern day
industrialization on environment and people living around the industry premises. Also a moral issue
is raised whether to lose position in a reputed industry and ultimately lead to unemployment which
is another issue of concern in our society. My suggestions to the young employee would be as below
for her dilemma
Body
 Arguments in favour of not keeping quiet are as follows:
 Working in a reputed industry is a matter of great honor and it also provides her a platform
to execute what she has learned during her academic period.
 But it is not justified if she is unable to put her opinions and suggestions frankly.

 ‘Business without morality’ is the most important point to be kept in mind so the secretive
discharge of highly toxic waste must be made public.
 As a citizen with civic responsibilities, she must keep in mind the right of life of the villagers
compelling her to speak.
 Keeping quiet on an issue which is not only impacting the nearby environment and
inhabitants but also it can harm company employees and workers in long run.
 Usually people join such voices/movements against injustice and all that they need is a
trigger, in this case the villagers need a spokesperson.
 So her approach to the higher authority must not be complaining rather it should be
suggestive so that it will be in favor of her company.
 Staying quiet is not going to benefit none and keeping environment and health of dwellers at
stake is unethical.
 The course of action I would suggest to her is as follows:
 Moral persuasion should be the first step. She should consult her colleagues one more time.
It is likely that would still not budge but again there is a possibility that she might be able to
conscience even one of them.
 The residents of the villages must be made aware about their right to life which includes a
healthy life.
 After some ground work like talking to villagers, the health problem faced by them, testing
the level of toxicity of rivers a report must be made. She can show this report to her
immediate senior to remind the company of the environment laws as well as corporate
social responsibility.
 Since profit is the sole aim of the company, she can present a case study where companies
lost business due to loss of confidence of people.
 She can take the assistance of the local NGO as well as media to create pressure on the
company as well other big industries working on similar lines.
 She can inform the district administration of the same wrongdoing and seek their help.
 As a last resort she can file public interest litigation on behalf of the villagers as the toxic
level of discharge and take head of the whistleblower’s act.
Conclusion
There is high chance of her losing the job, so simultaneously she can start looking for a new job since
even if the complains go unheard she might not continue in the company on moral grounds.

Rameshwar successfully cleared the prestigious civil services examination and was
excited about the opportunity that he would get through the civil services to serve the
country. However, soon after joining the services, he realized that things are not as rosy
as he had imagined. He found a number of malpractices prevailing in the department
assigned to him. For example, funds under various schemes and grants were being
misappropriated. The official facilities were frequently being used for personal needs by
the officers and staff. After some time, he noticed that the process of recruiting the
staff was also not up to the mark. Prospective candidates were required to write an
examination in which a lot of cheating was going on. Some candidates were provided
external help in the examination. Rameshwar brought these incidents to the notice of
his seniors. However, he was advised to keep his eyes, ears and mouth shut and ignore
all these things which were taking place with the connivance of the higher-ups.
Rameshwar felt highly disillusioned and uncomfortable. He comes to you seeking your
advice. Indicate various options that you think are available in this situation. How would
you help him to evaluate these options and choose the most appropriate path to be
adopted? (250 words)
Introduction:
Give a brief introduction regarding the facts of the case
Body:
In detail, outline the options that are available to Rameshwar. Evaluate the pros and cons of these
options.
Next, select the most appropriate option which is ethically justified as well as addresses the issues in
the administration.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stressing on the need to undertake reforms and manage situations even in tough
situations.
Introduction
Rameshwar has seen the actual vices and malpractices in services and system. He is facing the
situation that he never expected in civil services. The situation depicts the level of corruption and
malpractices prevalent in the administration which affects the growth of Economy too.
Body
Various options available to Rameshwar
Option 1: Become a ‘team player’ as advised and ignore these incidents – this is not an option as it
reduces Rameshwar to corrupt bureaucrat and does not helps in solving his moral dilemma.
Option 2: Become whistle-blower to bring notice of government and media on malpractices going
on in recruitment. While this option gives immediate gratification to Rameshwar but it is disruptive
in terms of alienating seniors and other bureaucracy against him. In future he might be boycotted or
isolated in work. Moreover being whistle-blower has no guarantee of stopping all the malpractices
going on in the department.
Option 3: He can look for any other officer who is ethical and wants to raise voice against current
practice. Both or all such officers can write a joint application to the higher authorities.
Option 4: Listen to his senior’s advice and ignore all the malpractices and happenings. Focus on his
deontological objectives and ignore the incidents till he gains power by working along with other
bureaucrats. Then bring about change once he is sufficiently powerful and has necessary support
from his colleagues, seniors and juniors.
All other options would finally lead to either raising voice against the current system or keeping
quiet. If Rameshwar decides to oppose the practice, he has first three options in which he can either
directly or through others affected parties or with other officers can bring the matter to the notice
of higher authorities and if required, can bring the matter to political or judicial authorities.
However, this may endanger his career and in some situation even his physical safety and life may
be in danger. Therefore, Rameshwar must be careful while raising voice against the system. But if he
decides to keep shut, he will have guilt throughout his life and he cannot forgive himself for it.
Conclusion
So I would suggest that best option for Rameshwar is mixture of Option 3 and 4. This is the most
logical way to bring about lasting change in the system. Being whistle-blower would only alienate
him from bureaucracy, and being corrupt team player is neither ethically nor deontological viable for
fulfilling categorical imperative of delivering greater public good.
You are the Sarpanch of a Panchayat. There is a primary school run by the government
in your area. Midday meals are provided to children attending the school. The
headmaster has now appointed a new cook in the school to prepare the meals.
However, when it is found that cook is from Dalit community, almost half of the
children belonging to higher castes are not allowed to take meals by their parents.
Consequently, the attendance in the schools falls sharply. This could result in the
possibility of discontinuation of midday meal scheme, thereafter of teaching staff and
subsequent closing down the school.
(a) Discuss some feasible strategies to overcome the conflict and to create right ambiance.
(b) What should be the responsibilities of different social segments and agencies to create positive
social ambiance for accepting such changes? (250 words) (UPSC2015)

Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Case Study Fridays’
in Mission-2022 Secure.
Introduction
The given case deals with the ethical issue of social (caste) discrimination on one side and issue of
children dropping out of the school on the other. The ethical dilemma for the Sarpanch is keeping
the Dalit cook employed and also encouraging parents to send their kids to school.

Body
Stakeholders of the case
 The Sarpanch
 Headmaster of the school and the cook in the school.
 The kids and their parents belonging to higher castes.
 Dalits in the society.
 Civil societies, NGOs working in social development.
 District administration, State and central governments.
Ethical issues involved in the case

 Caste-based Discrimination: The students are not attending the school after their parents
are against the cook from Dalit community. It is the issue of still prevalent caste based social
discrimination in the society.
o It is against humanity which focuses on the equality of all men.
 Constitutional Morality: Our constitution confers equal rights to all men and discriminating
on the grounds of caste is against the constitutional morality.
o According to the constitution untouchability is a crime and cannot be promoted in

any form.
Some possible strategies to overcome the conflict
 Persuading the Parents: I will hold a series of meetings with the school administration and
the parents of the kids from higher caste communities.
o The parents can be persuaded to send their kids to school for the sake of their kids’
studies and career.
 Cook can be rested for some days: I will also hold meetings with all the communities of the
village and try to build a society based on harmony, empathy and compassion.
o Meanwhile cook from the dalit community can be relieved from the job for a few
days in order to calm down the immediate situation distrust and students would
return to the school.
 Setting an Example: I will ask my family members and like-minded relatives to send their
kids to government school and eat the mid-day meal cooked by the dalit cook.
o This can set an example for other upper caste families to follow the suit.
Responsibilities of different social segments and agencies to create positive social ambience
 School and Education system: Our education system must focus more on propagating social
elements such as equality in society.
o If these values are inculcated in students of today, they can become better citizens
of tomorrow.

 Gram Sabha: Gram sabha has a responsibility to bring a social change in the village. Being a
Sarpanch, I will have this duty to inform all the members of the Gram Sabhas about the evils
of casteism and untouchability and have launched a campaign for the boycott of these evils.
 Reducing conflicts: Efforts are to be made to remove the conflicts between different social
groups that can give rise to fights. If this can be eliminated then it would be a big
achievement in bringing social equality.
 Local Administration and Civil Society: Local administration, police and civil societies have a
responsibility to spread the awareness about the rights of lower caste communities. They
should continuously work towards the integration of the society.
Conclusion
The measures taken for correcting the evil of social discrimination may not show immediate impacts
but the efforts should continue. Tactics of social influence and persuasion will surely help in reducing
caste barriers and achieving an equal society
You are the head of the Human Resources department of an organisation. One day one
of the workers died on duty. His family was demanding compensation. However, the
company denied compensation because it was revealed in investigation that he was
drunk at the time of the accident. The workers of the company went to strike
demanding compensation for the family of the deceased. The Chairman of the
management board has asked for your recommendation.
What recommendation would you provide the management?
Discuss the merits and demerits of each of the recommendations. (250 words) (UPSC2017)

Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4 and part of ‘Case Study Fridays’
in Mission-2022 Secure.
Introduction
This case deals with dilemma of having to analyse a situation from the perspective of rules and
process vis-a-vis humanitarian values. A human being’s value cannot be monetarily compensated,
yet there are cases where one must take tough decisions.
Body
Stakeholders in the case
 The worker’s family who are grieving the loss
 Other workers on strike
 Chairman and other executives of the organisation
 Myself as HR head
Ethical values involved

 Justice to deceased
 Rule of law
 Accountability of the organisation
 Reputation of the organisation
 Justice to other workers
Options available
Option 1: Let the law take its own course. As the worker was drunk during duty, the company
cannot be held responsible for his death.
Demerits: This may sound right as the worker was bound to follow rules at the place of work.
However, the strike by the remaining workers could affect the image and productivity of the
company. No matter the outcome, the trust between workers and the management would be lost.
It would be a gross denial of natural justice.
Merits: Due process would be followed and company would not be liable even if sued in a court of
law.
Option 2: Recommend the company to offer compensation.
Demerits: But this would set a bad precedent among the management as well as the workers. To
offer compensation would mean to let down the safety regulations of the company. The
management may also not appreciate the payment as they were not liable for compensation due to
negligence showed by the worker.
Merits: Natural justice to the family who lost a working member. At the same time, company also is
at fault because the security and safety were not in place that allowed a drunk worker to do duty in
inebriated condition.
Option 3: Recommend the management to offer alternative employment to the kin of the deceased.
Push the management to adopt stricter prevention and safety measures.
Merits: The third option is suitable as it would be better to bring the situation under control. The
workers could be placated if the kin of the deceased would be offered a job. And also, the company
may prefer to not lose image and man days due to the strike. Reputation also would be not
hindered.
Demerit: Company will have to bear some additional costs.
Conclusion
A value of an individual cannot be compensated by money or a job. But in an unfortunate incident as

this, justice must be done to the family that has lost an earning member who may have been their
livelihood as well. Such cases can't be dealt without applying morality and company has a certain
responsibility to see that justice is done. It must enforce safety and security and have a strict policy
so that such incidents do not occur again.




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INSTA SECURE SYNOPSIS

INSTA SECURE SYNOPSIS

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Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics

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Limitations and criticism

 A limitation of utilitarianism is that it tends to create a black-and-white construct of

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What do understand by the doctrine of Consequentialism? (150 words)

 As per Teleology, Moral behaviour, is goal-directed.

 Two forms of consequentialism are utilitarianism and hedonism.

 Rather than maximise individual welfare, utilitarianism focuses on collective welfareand it

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 Goal Directed functioning

 Democratic way of decision making.

 Not every happiness is quantifiable or comparable or outcome based.

Difficulty level: Easy

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The case of Afghanistan:

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Difficulty level: Easy

Structure of the answer:

Begin by explaining the quote in your word.

Conclude by emphasising on the importance of leading a truthful life.

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Role of family in transforming children

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Start by giving a simple understanding of the meaning of the quote.

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Integrity is a personal choice, an uncompromising and consistent commitment to honour moral,

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A morality is a system of principles and values concerning people’s behaviour, which

Public morality is not antithetical to individual rights

Public morality at times is antithetical to individual rights

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Lao Tzu said “The best way to do is to be.”

Traits of ethical leadership

 Responsibility: Responsibility means accepting to be in charge, embracing the power and

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 Transparency: Transparency concerns mainly the communication with all stakeholders. It

Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.

The above statement on morality explains Bentham’s Utilitarianism. According

This is the essence of the statement.

Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and

Difficulty level: Easy

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Ways of strengthening and improving the moral character of civil servants

 Avoid conflict of interests-Setting accountability clearly demarcates area of one’s actions

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Issues with treating drug addict as a criminal

 The stigma attached to drug addicts will further catapult.

Drug addicts should be treated as a victim