QUESTION 5(a)
GS4
10 marks
“The ‘Code of Conduct’ and ‘Code of Ethics’ are the sources of guidance in public administration. There is code of conduct already in operation, whereas code of ethics is not yet put in place. Suggest a suitable model for code of ethics to maintain integrity, probity and transparency in governance.
WRITE IN
7 min
150 words
What the examiner wants
Suggest a model code of ethics, separate from the existing conduct rules, that promotes integrity, probity and transparency.
SuggestPropose specific, workable measures.
Demand-wise check
- 1Difference: code of conduct lists dos and don'ts; code of ethics states guiding values≈30 words
- 2Proposed values: integrity, impartiality, accountability, empathy, transparency, dedication to public service≈30 words
- 3Design: short and clear, linked to training, ethics officer, annual ethics audit, whistleblower protection≈30 words
- 4Models: Nolan Principles (UK); 2nd ARC proposed Public Service values; Draft Public Service Bill 2007≈30 words
Open in about 20 words and close in about 20.
Answer plan
DistinctionNeedProposed model (values + mechanisms)ExamplesConclusion
Where marks usually go
- Repeating the existing conduct rules as a 'code of ethics'
- Values without any mechanism to make them work
Draw this
- Model card: values on top, enforcement mechanisms below
Value addition
- ModelUK's Nolan Committee (1995) set seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, leadership.Committee on Standards in Public Life
- Report2nd ARC 4th Report 'Ethics in Governance' recommended a code of ethics for ministers and civil servants.Second Administrative Reforms Commission
Mapped topper copies
Reviewed public-source references related to this PYQ. Same-syllabus references are labelled separately.
- Aakash Garg · AIR 5 · Page 9 ↗Reviewed PYQ reference
- Aakash Garg · AIR 5 · Page 5 ↗Reviewed PYQ reference
- Shakti Dubey · AIR 1 · Page 7 ↗Same syllabus reference
Links open original public sources. MainsBuddy does not host these answer sheets.
Next: plan for one minute, write it in 7 minutes, then get it checked.