UPSC Mains 2024 GS4 Q10 — Codes of Ethics
"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. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Suggest
- Scope keywords
- Code of ConductCode of Ethicssources of guidancemaintain integrity, probity and transparencysuitable model
- Implicit sub-parts
- The conceptual and functional difference between Code of Conduct (rules) and Code of Ethics (values).
- Why a Code of Conduct alone is insufficient for ensuring 'probity' in complex decision-making.
- A multi-layered model for a Code of Ethics (e.g., individual, organizational, and systemic levels).
- Enforcement mechanisms that distinguish a Code of Ethics from a mere list of platitudes.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too much time defining 'integrity' or 'probity' instead of proposing the actual model.
- Confusing the two codes by suggesting punitive measures for the Code of Ethics (which should be aspirational).
- Failing to mention the recommendations of the 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) which specifically discusses this gap.
- Providing a generic list of values like 'honesty' without explaining the 'model' or framework for their implementation.
- Dimensions required
- Administrative (2nd ARC recommendations)Normative/Ethical (Values-based guidance)Legal-Institutional (Enforcement vs. Internalization)Practical/Applied (Real-world governance challenges)
- Marks allocation hint
Devote 30-40 words to a crisp distinction between the two codes to set the context. Use the bulk of the limit (80-90 words) to present the 'model'—ideally structured around the 2nd ARC's Seven Principles of Public Life and a tripartite framework of Self-Regulation, Institutional Oversight, and Public Accountability. Reserve the final 20 words for a concluding thought on how this model transforms 'rule-bound' governance into 'value-driven' governance.
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