Define ethics, with reference to ethics in Indian tradition. Mention five principles to manage ethics in…

Question

Define ethics, with reference to ethics in Indian tradition. Mention five principles to manage ethics in public service.

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

Ethics is the study of right and wrong conduct, and Indian tradition grounds it in Lokasangraha and Nishkama Karma (selfless action) from the Bhagavad Gita, and in Gandhi's insistence on pure means. Five principles to manage ethics in public service are selflessness, integrity, accountability, transparency and leadership by example.

**Introduction**

Ethics is fundamental to public service, ensuring integrity and fairness in governance, especially in India’s complex and diverse society. It guides civil servants to act responsibly amid increasing public scrutiny and demands for transparency.

**Defining Ethics in Public Service**

1. **Ethics as Moral Principles**: Ethics governs right and wrong conduct, essential for accountability and transparency, as emphasized by the 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission’s report on Ethics in Governance (2007), which highlights ethics as key to good governance.

**Ethics in Indian Tradition**

1. **Philosophical Foundations**: Indian ethics draws on Bhagavad Gita’s Lokasangraha and Nishkama Karma, focusing on selfless duty for collective welfare rather than personal gain.  
2. **Constitutional Embodiment**: Article 51A of the Indian Constitution enshrines fundamental duties guiding civil servants to uphold justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, reflecting constitutional morality as a foundation for ethical governance.

**Five Principles to Manage Ethics in Public Service**

1. **Selflessness**: Nolan Committee’s principle mandates acting solely in public interest, avoiding personal gain to maintain impartiality.  
2. **Integrity**: ==Andhra Pradesh’s Vigilance Awareness Week== promotes honesty among officials through integrity pledges and awareness campaigns.  
3. **Accountability**: Right to Information Act enables public scrutiny of civil servants, ensuring they are answerable for their actions and decisions.  
4. **Transparency**: ==Andhra Pradesh’s e-governance initiatives== enhance openness in governance by making information accessible and reducing corruption.  
5. **Leadership by Example**: Leaders like Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam inspire ethical conduct by demonstrating personal integrity and dedication to national development.

**Conclusion**

Integrating Indian ethical traditions with principled public service strengthens governance and public trust, ensuring that civil servants act as custodians of the public good in a democratic society.

Define ethics, with reference to ethics in Indian tradition. Mention five principles to manage ethics in public service.

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