GS4 · Topic
Probity in Governance
The concept of public service and the philosophical basis of governance and probity, taken as the syllabus states it.
235 UPSC Mains GS4 questions on Probity in Governance that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2013–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
Adhering to high standards of transparency is often in conflict with the duty towards maintaining confidentiality. With examples, elaborate on the problems faced by public servants in effective discharge of duties during such situations. Also, discuss the ethical framework that should guide the decisions in these circumstances.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
Transparency and InformationEthical Dilemmas in Government
Information is a way to promote conduction of social audit.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
Transparency and InformationProbity in Governance
Of all government activities, public procurement is amongst the one most vulnerable to fraud and corruption. Explain with examples. Further, what steps would you suggest to maintain probity in public procurement.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2015
Probity in GovernanceCorruption
While discretion is necessary for effective discharge of duties, it is also a major factor responsible for corruption in administration at all levels. Comment. In this context, suggest some ways in which smooth execution of responsibilities can be ascertained while minimising corruption.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
CorruptionTransparency and Information
How does an ethical vision and an ethical quotient help in combating corruption in public services?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
CorruptionProbity in Governance
Recently CJI Chandrachud held "RTI as dead letter", largely due to inefficiency and unwillingness to disseminate info causing opaque governance.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Transparency and InformationProbity in Governance
Discuss the menace of corruption in public life. Also critically examine the measures taken for ensuring probity in governance.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2019
CorruptionProbity in Governance
It appears that there is "alarming drop in integrity levels" among civil service officers, especially in the higher echelon as reported in recent times. It shows that law as deterrence, Supreme Court's judgements and naming and shaming are not very effective. Discuss its causes and consequences on citizen and administration. What innovative measures will be taken to tackle such officers?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2016
IntegrityCorruption
Answer the following in about 150 words each 2 x 10 = 20 (a) Probity in public life is the key to stability and growth of India. Examine.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2013
Probity in GovernanceCorruption
Sometimes shaming of bad practices is also required. Eg: publishing data of millionaires using government subsidies
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2017
Probity in GovernanceTransparency and Information
What are the key principles of public service delivery? Discuss the challenges associated with providing effective public service delivery in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Quality of Service DeliveryProbity in Governance
Corruption is a slippery slope. It refers to private appropriation of public resources for personal gains. Once a person gives into corrupt practices, it is difficult to come out of it, given the accountability of public administration & division of powers.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
CorruptionProbity in Governance
Sundar, a young government servant, joined the office with great enthusiasm and desire to serve the public. Soon after getting a government job, Sundar got married with Sarita who is also a government servant working as a junior engineer in electricity department. But both of them have different postings. They work from two different cities and live separately. Sundar has applied for his transfer many times, but in vain. With his dedication to work, Sundar is making a great image of himself and is getting appreciation from his peers and seniors. Because of his great performance, he got an important task of auditing the performance of "Housing for all" scheme. The scheme aims to provide affordable housing to the urban poor population. However, his study and research led to some shocking results. He found out that most of the houses are being acquired by relatives of local politicians and government servants. The deserving urban poor population is still deprived of shelter and this has been the case from past few years. With further investigation, he realized that there is a massive ongoing scam. While the government is not allotting the completed houses to the beneficiaries, the poor are being looted of their hard-earned money with the promised dream of a house of their own. Sundar prepared a file with all the details and evidence and presented it to the SDM. The SDM, a relative of the central government minister, was fully involved in the corruption. Now, to save himself, SDM offers Sundar a deal that if he does not reveal the details of study, he will get a job at the same location as his wife. He is also offered a house from the scheme itself. On the other hand, he was warned that refusal to accept this proposal may entail retaliatory action by SDM against him. As you are a very good friend of Sundar. He discusses the matter with you. Answer the following questions: a) Why such instance of corruption in government programmes are common across the country? How can they be prevented? b) Enumerate various interests involved in this case from the perspective of different stakeholders. What advice will you give to Sundar?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
CorruptionEthical Dilemmas in Government
Though the internal control systems in India are impressive on paper, they have not worked well in curbing the issue of corruption in the administration. Comment. Also, discuss the various reasons for the same.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
CorruptionAccountability and Ethical Governance
Mr. Gopal Mahto is the sitting Chief Minister of one of the most populous states in India. He is a young and dynamic leader, popular not just in his state but across the country. Many political analysts opine that he has the potential to become Prime Minister of India in future. One day, the CM was taking a review meeting of law-and-order situation in the state, with senior officials in the state capital. Suddenly he felt a light pain in his abdomen. The CM had been feeling such bouts of pain since a long time, but like always he neglected it this time too, and continued with the meeting. However, in the next few weeks, the intensity of pain increased and the CM was forced to see a doctor. After initial examination, the doctor gave some medicines and prescribed few tests. After few days, the report came and it showed that the CM is suffering from 'Liver Cirrhosis.' It was in the advanced stage and posed a threat to the life of Mr. Mahto. The doctor told that the only option was the liver transplant without any further delay. In apprehension that it may create chaos among the general public, particularly the supporters of the CM and his party, it was decided to not make the news public. Only very few senior functionaries at the centre and state along with medical staff were aware of the situation. Meanwhile, the Health Minister of the State directed the State's Health Secretary to take necessary actions, coordinate with medical staff and arrange for liver transplant for the CM. The next day, the Health Secretary called the State Director General (DG), Health, who is the competent authority, dealing with the matters related to organ transplantation in the state. The DG, Renuka was informed of the situation and directed to make immediate arrangement for liver transplant. However, Renuka told the Secretary that there is a laid down Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) regarding organ transplantation. She informed him that there is already a patient named Sunil at first position in the waiting list, who also requires urgent liver transplant. The health secretary is also informed that Sunil is left with a very short time window for a successful transplantation. Sunil is 35 years old, a father of two, and the sole bread winner of the family of six that also includes his wife and aging parents. Sunil's family is of limited means and often found it rather difficult to cater even for their needs. Also, various medical costs associated with Sunil's conditions have further worsened the financial condition of the family. Renuka further informs the secretary, as per SOP, the CM would be at the second position in the waiting list. As a matter of chance, Renuka receives a phone call from one of her subordinates. She informs Renuka that a liver has been donated by family of an old person, who died his natural death. After relevant tests, it was found that the available liver is fit for Sunil. Incidentally, the liver also fits the medical profile of the CM. Renuka immediately intimates the secretary about this development. Even though all the facts with regard to the SOP are explicitly clear, the secretary still tries to persuade Renuka for bending the rule in favor of Mr. Gopal Mahto. He explains that if anything untoward happens to the CM, it may lead to chaos and instability in the State. It may also require fresh elections which will be a drain on state exchequer and a drag on the governance process. He also hinted that if Renuka 'bent' the rule, this will be favorable for her career growth in the future. Further, to ease Renuka's conscience, the health secretary assured her that her actions are in larger interest of the state as well as the country. He also reasoned that if Sunil fails to receive a healthy liver in time, he will personally ensure that Sunil's family is well taken care of, and an eligible member of his family is accorded with a government job. Meanwhile, the time is running out for both Sunil and the CM. a) What are the ethical concerns associated with the above case study? b) What are the options available with Renuka? Analyse the merits and demerits of the options? c) If you were at the place of Renuka, which option would you choose and why?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Ethical Dilemmas in GovernmentRules versus Compassion
'The scope for corruption increases when the accountability of public administration is fragile and division of power is ambiguous.' Analyse.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
CorruptionAccountability and Ethical Governance
Mr. Gopal Mahto is the sitting Chief Minister of one of the most populous states in India. He is a young and dynamic leader, popular not just in his state but across the country. Many political analysts opine that he has the potential to become Prime Minister of India in future. One day, the CM was taking a review meeting of law-and-order situation in the state, with senior officials in the state capital. Suddenly he felt a light pain in his abdomen. The CM had been feeling such bouts of pain since a long time, but like always he neglected it this time too, and continued with the meeting. However, in the next few weeks, the intensity of pain increased and the CM was forced to see a doctor. After initial examination, the doctor gave some medicines and prescribed few tests. After few days, the report came and it showed that the CM is suffering from ‘Liver Cirrhosis.’ It was in the advanced stage and posed a threat to the life of Mr. Mahto. The doctor told that the only option was the liver transplant without any further delay. In apprehension that it may create chaos among the general public, particularly the supporters of the CM and his party, it was decided to not make the news public. Only very few senior functionaries at the centre and state along with medical staff were aware of the situation. Meanwhile, the Health Minister of the State directed the State's Health Secretary to take necessary actions, coordinate with medical staff and arrange for liver transplant for the CM. The next day, the Health Secretary called the State Director General (DG), Health, who is the competent authority, dealing with the matters related to organ transplantation in the state. The DG, Renuka was informed of the situation and directed to make immediate arrangement for liver transplant. However, Renuka told the Secretary that there is a laid down Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) regarding organ transplantation. She informed him that there is already a patient named Sunil at first position in the waiting list, who also requires urgent liver transplant. The health secretary is also informed that Sunil is left with a very short time window for a successful transplantation. Sunil is 35 years old, a father of two, and the sole bread winner of the family of six that also includes his wife and aging parents. Sunil's family is of limited means and often found it rather difficult to cater even for their needs. Also, various medical costs associated with Sunil's conditions have further worsened the financial condition of the family. Renuka further informs the secretary, as per SOP, the CM would be at the second position in the waiting list. As a matter of chance, Renuka receives a phone call from one of her subordinates. She informs Renuka that a liver has been donated by family of an old person, who died his natural death. After relevant tests, it was found that the available liver is fit for Sunil. Incidentally, the liver also fits the medical profile of the CM. Renuka immediately intimates the secretary about this development. Even though all the facts with regard to the SOP are explicitly clear, the secretary still tries to persuade Renuka for bending the rule in favor of Mr. Gopal Mahto. He explains that if anything untoward happens to the CM, it may lead to chaos and instability in the State. It may also require fresh elections which will be a drain on state exchequer and a drag on the governance process. He also hinted that if Renuka ‘bent’ the rule, the will be favorable for her career growth in the future. Further, to ease Renuka’s conscience, the health secretary assured her that actions are their actions are in larger interest of the state as well as the country. He also reasoned that if Sunil fails to receive a healthy liver in time, he will personally ensure that Sunil’s family is well taken care of, and an eligible member of his family is accorded with a government job. Meanwhile, the time is running out for both Sunil and the CM. a) What are the ethical concerns associated with the above case study? b) What are the options available with Renuka? Analyse the merits and demerits of the options? c) If you were at the place of Renuka, which option would you choose and why?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Rules versus CompassionEthical Dilemmas in Government
Bring out the relevance of the seven principles of public life stated by the Nolan Committee in the Indian context, with the help of examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Civil Service ValuesProbity in Governance
Even strongest regulatory mechanism can't prevent leak completely
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
CorruptionProbity in Governance
Public officials often feel that their privacy is compromised when they remain accountable to the public. Examine the ethical dilemma involved and suggest ways to address the challenge. Q.6) a) Public spaces serve as arenas of democratic participation and civic expression. Yet in India, they remain deeply gendered, with many women largely confined to the private and domestic sphere. Examine the factors that restrict women's access to public spaces. How can ethical governance help address the issue of gendered spatial control and promote inclusivity in public spaces?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Probity in GovernanceTransparency and Information
Probity in governance refers to adherence to sound principles of ethical administration ie accountability, integrity, transparency etc.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Probity in GovernanceAccountability and Ethical Governance
What is probity in governance? What is the purpose and importance of probity in governance? Are there any measures to ensure probity in governance?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Probity in GovernanceTransparency and Information
What is meant by probity in governance? Discuss its importance in public procurement and service delivery
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Probity in GovernanceUtilisation of Public Funds
The RTI Act, which became operational in 2005 empowers the Indian citizens to seek information from public authorities. This, in effect, makes the Government and its functionaries more accountable and responsible. However, it has faced resistance because of the entrenched bureaucratic culture and it is taking time to change the mindset of the people in the government to new realities in wake of the act. This has led to implementation issues and questions have also been raised against the effectiveness of the act in achieving its desired objectives. Apart from this, certain issues related to the information seeker have also been raised from time to time. In view of the innumerable challenges answer the following: (a) Explain the importance of a transparent government system in a democracy, like India. (b) Elaborate on the challenges that the implementation of RTI has faced, in the context of information seeker (demand-side) as well as those entrusted to give information (supply-side). (c) Discuss the role that such a legislation can be expected to play given the ground realities in our country. How can it be ensured that such legislations are effective in achieving their envisaged objectives?
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2020
Transparency and InformationAccountability and Ethical Governance
Probity is an essential condition of good governance. Explain.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2020
Probity in GovernanceAccountability and Ethical Governance
Corruption endangers not only the quality of governance but also threatens the very foundation of our society. Elucidate.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
CorruptionProbity in Governance
Probity in governance is a practice of upholding the highest standards in governance.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Probity in GovernanceAccountability and Ethical Governance
Administrative corruption is rooted in administrative as well as non-administrative sources. Explain.
20 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2013
CorruptionProbity in Governance
"Social audits and The Right to Information (RTI) Act are not merely tools of financial accountability, but instruments of participatory ethics that empower citizens to hold power to account." Critically examine the effectiveness of both of them in ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical governance.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Transparency and InformationAccountability and Ethical Governance
In a state in India, government officials are regularly denying poor, illiterate workers, their statutory minimum wage under a government scheme ensuring a minimum level of employment for them. The actual quantity of work done is being routinely under measured. False entries in employment registers with bogus names, is enabling project foremen to pocket the payments. Other malpractices including inflated estimates for public works projects, use of poor quality materials, and over billing by suppliers are being followed. What can be done to resolve this problem? List the measures that can be taken to plug such loopholes.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2013
Probity in GovernanceCorruption