2024 · GS Paper 2 · Q8 · 10 marks
The Doctrine of Democratic Governance makes it necessary that the public perception of the integrity and commitment of civil servants becomes absolutely positive. Discuss.
In short
Democratic governance needs a positive public perception of civil servants because trust underpins the state's legitimacy, citizen participation and effective delivery. That perception must rest on real conduct, secured by the Lokpal Act 2013, RTI, social audit and the Second ARC's code of ethics.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 268 words
Legitimacy
Citizens obey laws willingly only when officials seem impartial; T.N. Seshan's enforcement of the model code restored faith in the Election Commission.
Participation
Armstrong Pame's crowd-funded 100-km "People's Road" in Tamenglong, Manipur (2012) rested on public faith in one officer.
Backing for courage
The 2013 outcry that reversed Durga Shakti Nagpal's suspension after her action against the sand mafia showed that integrity is valued.
Protection of the weak
The poor depend most on the state, and a perception of corruption keeps them away from ration shops, hospitals and courts.
Reality first
Perception must follow conduct, since image-building without integrity is mere propaganda, so the Lokpal Act, 2013, RTI and social audits must underpin trust.
Fair to the honest
Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act (2018) shields bona fide decisions from vexatious investigations that unfairly taint officers.
Commitment by design
Fixed tenures urged in T.S.R. Subramanian (2013) and Mission Karmayogi's citizen-centric training build trustworthy conduct.
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This chapter in the exam
Role of Civil Services in a Democracy6 questions
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2024 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.