GS4 · 10 marks · 150 words

In the parlance of governance, probity is often used in conjunction with integrity. How do you differentiate between the two? What is their importance in public life? What measures can help promote these values in governance?

Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2017–2018

Syllabus: 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.

How toppers approached it

From all 4 answers · about 200 words.

Opening

  • A definition2 of 4
  • No separate opening2 of 4

Body

  • Points4 of 4

Close

  • No separate close2 of 4
  • A summary2 of 4

The toppers’ answers

Karnati Varun ReddyAIR 7 · CSE 2018 · 200 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a definition

"Integrity" is the core quality of adhering to highest moral standards like honesty, compassion, equality etc.

Where as "Probity" is not just integrity, honesty in governance but also positive values like transparency, accountability, absence of corruption. Therefore probity is bigger than integrity which is necessary for efficient public service delivery and socio-economic development.

Importance of Integrity and Probity

Body · points

(i) Probity in governance ensures public interest is given priority over personal interests. (ii) Ensures better quality of service, efficiency in public service delivery e.g economising resources, so that it can be spent on education, health. (iii) Integrity in conduct ensures absence of corruption, nepotism in contracts awarding. (iv) Public faith and trust will be safeguarded. (v) Paves way for inclusive, sustainable, foster socio-economic development.

Measures to promote these values

(a) value training during recruitment, regular in service orientation camps to reinforce these values. (b) choosing right leaders to head organisations/ departments.

  • leaders should promote and embody those values. (c) Accountability mechanisms in case of deviation
  • Citizen charter, RTI - to public
  • CVC, CBI, judiciary - institutional methods (d) action, grievance redressal should be swift to act as deterrent.

Close · a summary

Thus an ethical governance will be established in public offices.

More on Probity in Governance

The concept of public service and the philosophical basis of governance and probity, taken as the syllabus states it.

All GS4 questions on Probity in Governance