UPSC Mains 2025 · GS IV · Q5(a) · 10 marks · 150 words

“One who is devoted to one’s duty attains highest perfection in life.” Analyse this statement with reference to sense of responsibility and personal fulfilment as a civil servant.

हिन्दी में

“जो व्यक्ति अपने कर्त्तव्य के प्रति समर्पित होता है, वह जीवन में सर्वोच्च पूर्णता को प्राप्त करता है ।” एक सिविल सेवक के रूप में जिम्मेदारी की भावना और व्यक्तिगत संतुष्टि के संदर्भ में इस कथन का विश्लेषण कीजिए ।

Dedication to Public Service

How a topper answered the closest question

Toppers wrote this one in a test series: “What do you understand by 'Nishkam Karma'? Discuss the importance of 'Nishkam Karma' in the life of a civil servant.”

Riju ShrivastavaAIR 124 · CSE 2021 · 134 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a definition

As Bhagwad Gita says - Nishakama Karma is working without being attached to the fruits of the work. Giving our best, leaving to God the rest.

eg - preparation for exam should be knowledge seeking work; results should not be the motivation.

Body · points and prose

Importance of Nishakama Karma in life of civil servant

  1. in fulfilling spirit of service ↳ giving best. ↳ fruits are complementary (eg) → Prashant Nair - Collector Bro, T.N. Seshan - always remembered.

  2. in not be lured by lobh or greed (Jain Ethics) ↳ fruits of 'corruption' disregarded (eg) - Satyendra Dubey (NHAI)

  3. in giving best and become positive role models - Kartavya Marg (Duty Ethics)

Close · a way forward

↳ innovation is promoted (eg) - Armstrong Pame.

Therefore, Nishakama Karma will highlight Doctrine of Supererogation and make civil servant 'Babu to Karmayogi'.

How toppers approach this question, and more on its topic: open the question.

Toppers’ answers to other close questions

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination 2025, General Studies Paper IV, Q5(a). The paper on upsc.gov.in. Themes and links to toppers’ answers are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.