2019 · GS Paper 4 · Q1(b) · 10 marks
What do you understand by the term 'public servant'? Reflect on the expected role of public servant.
In short
A public servant is anyone entrusted with a public duty, legally defined in Section 2(28) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and ethically a trustee of public power. The expected role spans last-mile delivery, rule of law, protecting the vulnerable and fearless advice, as S.R. Sankaran showed.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 266 words
Legal meaning
Section 2(28) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and Section 2(c) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 cover anyone performing a public duty; the Supreme Court even held MPs to be public servants in P.V. Narasimha Rao (1998).
Ethical meaning
A public servant is a trustee of public power, holding authority for citizens and never over them.
Constitutional status
Articles 309 to 311 secure tenure so that officers stay neutral and impartial as governments change.
Last-mile delivery
Armstrong Pame built the 100-km "People's Road" in Manipur's Tamenglong district (2012) through public donations when official funds were absent.
Guardian of the rule of law
Durga Shakti Nagpal acted against illegal sand mining in Gautam Buddh Nagar (2013).
Voice for the vulnerable
S.R. Sankaran, the "people's IAS officer", championed enforcement of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 and schooling for Dalit children.
Fearless advice, faithful execution
The 2nd ARC's 4th Report (2007) expects frank advice, then non-partisan implementation of lawful decisions.
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This chapter in the exam
Probity in Governance — Concept of public service8 questions
Asked in 6 of 14 sittings since 2013
- 2024"In Indian culture and value system, an equal opportunity has been provided irrespective of gender identity. The number of women in public service has been steadily increasing over the years." Examine the gender-specific challenges faced by female public servants and suggest suitable measures to increase their efficiency in discharging their duties and maintaining high standards of probity.
- 2023'Probity is essential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic development.' Discuss.
All 8 questions, sorted by sub-topic, with model answers and practice.
Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2019 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.