CivilsIASPrep.comUPSC PYQs: Mains GS4
Review complete published questions grouped by paper: Mains GS4.
Other qualifying paper groups
- Essay108 published questions
- Kannada Optional Paper I310 published questions
- Kannada Optional Paper II280 published questions
- Mains GS1295 published questions
- Mains GS2285 published questions
- Mains GS3285 published questions
- Mains GS4215 published questions
- Prelims CSAT1201 published questions
- Prelims GS11525 published questions
Questions
- Owing to paucity of time, a university professor generates a Ph.D. evaluation report using Artificial Intelligence and submits it with some modifications. Discuss this from the perspective of accountability and integrity.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · AI, Accountability and Academic Integrity
- A business house is working on a project that could displace a forest community from their habitat. As the administrative officer of that district, what ethical challenges are you likely to face?2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Development, Displacement and Environmental Justice
- An endangered tribe has developed a severe skeletal deformity. A university research has identified a mineral supplement as a possible remedy, though clinical trials are yet to be conducted. Should the District Magistrate (DM) use this research on the tribe? Discuss from the perspective of medical and administrative ethics.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Medical and Administrative Ethics in Vulnerable Communities
- Discuss how national security can be balanced with concerns of human rights.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · National Security and Human Rights
- Dr. B. R. Ambedkar had cautioned that employing civil disobedience within a constitutional democracy equates to endorsing ‘anarchy’. How should modern democracies navigate the ethical dilemmas posed by civil disobedience movements that aim to promote social justice against policies that may raise genuine concerns?2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Civil Disobedience and Constitutional Morality
- In what ways can an Indian Administrative Officer apply Gandhi’s notion of ‘trusteeship’ to ensure fairness in governance?2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Gandhian Trusteeship in Public Administration
- Shakespeare in Henry IV says, “The arms are fair when the intent of bearing them is just”. What ethical implications does this have in governance?2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Just Intent, Means and Governance
- Citing the serious adverse effects of long-term medication, a doctor convinces the family of a female patient for surgery. This led the patient to reluctantly consent for the surgery, though her original choice was to opt for medication. Explain the concepts of paternalism and beneficence by analysing the doctor’s action.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Paternalism, Beneficence and Patient Autonomy
- Efficiency is doing things right, while effectiveness is doing the right thing. How do you strike a balance between the two to enhance productivity?2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Efficiency and Effectiveness in Administration
- Usually schools, working in remote areas, do not fully comply with government regulations. However, if the rules are enforced strictly, it would lead to most schools closing down. How should an administrator strike a balance between enforcement of rules and educational rights of children?2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Rule Enforcement and Right to Education
- In international relations, ethical considerations are often subjugated to the strategic interests of nation-states. Discuss this from an ethical perspective.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethics and National Interest in International Relations
- On the request of his Personal Assistant (PA), the District Magistrate (DM) stops the transfer of a schoolteacher who takes private tuition for his daughter diagnosed with learning disability. In this context, discuss the aspects of empathy versus compliance with rules.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Empathy, Rules and Conflict of Interest
- Some moral philosophers argue that spending some of your resources—without significantly affecting your financial stability—to help other people who badly suffer is our moral duty and not merely a matter of charity. Justify this claim by explaining the distinction between duty and charity.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Duty, Charity and Positive Moral Obligations
- Lata, a mother of two children, was admitted to a hospital for acute abdominal pain. Her sister-in-law, Sujatha, accompanied her. Dr. Mansi examined Lata and recommended a diagnostic laparoscopy. Lata’s consent was taken to conduct the medical procedure under general anesthesia. During the laparoscopy, Dr. Mansi’s team discovered a tumor in Lata’s uterus. A closer examination suggested that the tumor could be malignant. One option before Dr. Mansi was to extract a sample for biopsy. In that case, if the tumor was malignant, Lata would have to undergo another surgery for removal of the uterus. An alternative was to remove the uterus immediately. Dr. Mansi had to take a quick decision. As Lata was under general anesthesia, Dr. Mansi explained the situation to Sujatha. Sujatha agreed with Dr. Mansi’s recommendations for a hysterectomy, wherein Lata’s uterus would be removed to avoid the risk and pain of undergoing another surgery. Dr. Mansi removed Lata’s uterus after receiving Sujatha’s consent in writing. Lata was informed of this the next day. She was very upset and felt betrayed as she had not consented to the removal of her uterus. Lata complained to the police who tried to convince her that Dr. Mansi had acted with good intention to help a patient. Sujatha was of the same opinion, however Lata was not convinced and decided to approach the court. (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case. (b) Discuss the moral conduct of the doctor in this situation.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Medical Consent, Autonomy and Beneficence
- Ravi is a senior police officer with vast experience in riot control and cyber-policing. Since one year, he has been the Superintendent of Police (SP) of a district with a history of frequent rioting. Last year, Ravi had sought installation of an AI enabled software for predictive policing. This system has been operational for approximately six months. This new system employs advanced algorithms for capturing the biometric data of persons in a crowd and swiftly relating it to a data library. This has enabled the police to identify the persons involved in various crimes. The system has identified an immigrant and low-income neighbourhood as a centre for gang violence and drug trafficking. Aided by this AI analysis, the local police has focused its patrolling, preventive detentions and establishing checkpoints. Consequently, public order and law enforcement has visibly improved. Last week, some community leaders, civil rights lawyers and human rights activists visited Ravi’s office. They submitted a memorandum that the new system is faulty as it is based on incorrect historical data caused by social biases and discriminatory policing. The memorandum also alleges that the increased surveillance has created a climate of tension amongst residents. This feeling is aggravated by the fact that the residents are not aware of the data noted against their names. (a) What are the ethical issues including biases involved in the use of AI in data-driven policing? (b) Place yourself in Ravi’s role and discuss the alternatives available. Justify the action that optimises compliance with ethics.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · AI Bias, Privacy and Predictive Policing
- Seema is a senior bureaucrat with a reputation of honesty and professional efficiency. She has recently been posted as the District Collector (DC) to Surinder Nagar, where a large industrial area is being established. The new industrial area had caused many farmers to submit applications for change of land use (CLU) to convert their farmlands into residential areas. There is an unusually large backlog of these applications awaiting processing. Seema noticed that some applications had been approved selectively with no visible chronological pattern. The case files showed a few complaints of some approvals being subject to receipt of large bribes from the applicants. On further fact-finding, Seema realized that a small group of touts was controlling this illegal activity through some subordinate officials in the Collectorate. This had created a fear in the other employees who were reluctant to process any application. The resultant backlog has been piling up thereby hindering local economic progress and causing public dissatisfaction. Seema was faced with a major moral and administrative challenge of dismantling this corruption network without hampering daily administrative operations. An aggressive internal investigation would result in institutional resistance and, possibly, a backlash from labour unions. Conversely, ignoring this situation would encourage the wrongdoers and unnecessarily continue this avoidable harassment to the populace. (a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case? (b) Discuss the options open to Seema. Identify the recommended option and justify it.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Corruption, Probity and Administrative Reform
- Vikas is a government officer with over a decade of service in public administration. He has recently moved as the District Collector (DC) of Nainipura, a remote hilly district bordering a forest. Due to Nainipura’s low levels of economic development, one of his major duties is to ensure proper functioning of the public distribution system (PDS) amongst the economically weaker sections (EWS). During his on-site visits, Vikas was apprised of a typical administrative challenge in operating the PDS. To prevent leakages, all distributors were required to carry out real-time biometric identification of the beneficiaries, whose fingerprints were tallied with identity card records. This was creating problems as the operating system sometimes rejected fingerprint matching in the cases of growing children, manual labourers and senior citizens. The problem was further compounded in periods of low WIFI connectivity. The distributors, in such cases, resorted to personal discretion when they could identify the recipient. Vikas had to address this problem on priority. Strictly adhering to ‘government regulations’ would ensure fiscal probity but would greatly trouble the proposed beneficiary, i.e., EWS. It may even impinge on their fundamental right to life as per Article 21 of the Constitution. Conversely, leaving the resolution solely to the discretion of the distributors could lead to misuse and leakages. (a) What are the options open to Vikas? How should he balance fiscal probity with empathy towards the designated beneficiaries? (b) Discuss the ethics of using technology as a gatekeeper for welfare schemes.2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Technology, Exclusion and Welfare Delivery
- Rajapuram is a border district. Jhara and Biru, its two major communities are in continual conflict with each other. The social fabric is fractured and demands mending. Ethnic tensions between the two communities have erupted into violence resulting in a large number of deaths. The stated causes are conflicting land claims, uneven resource allocation and inadequate political representation in government bodies. Separate relief camps had to be created for the two communities. The situation is volatile and appears to be getting out of control. Rajan has been appointed the District Magistrate (DM) of Rajapuram and tasked to quickly get the situation under control. His immediate tasks include restoring administrative authority, reopening the highway and initiating peace talks. On taking over his appointment, Rajan realized that the inter-community rivalry had even seeped into the local administration and police. With functional neutrality being the immediate casualty, it had made both communities distrustful of the government. The neighbouring country could utilize the opportunity to spur insurgent activity and further aggravate the situation. Rajan favoured a controlled approach starting with opening the highway to restore food and medical supplies. He toyed with the idea of requisitioning CRPF units to help restore administrative control. (a) Discuss the ethical issues that need to be addressed in this case. (b) What are the options open to Rajan? Which option would ensure protection of his non-partisan image without compromising ethics?2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Administrative Neutrality in Ethnic Conflict
- Ajit has been recently promoted as the Head of the Department of Weapon Sales (DWS) in the Ministry of Defence Production (MDP). His charter of duties includes international sales of weapons produced domestically by MDP. In two recent wars, MDP weapons have performed admirably, resulting in many countries showing interest in buying them, particularly long-range artillery and missiles. Country A and country B have asked for these weapons. However, production constraints restrict DWS to accept only one purchase order. Country A is a developing nation with a sound technology base. MDP is planning R&D collaboration with it for the next generation of weapons. It is not part of any security alliance and needs weapons for protection from a troublesome neighbour. It seeks a large acquisition on a long-term loan. Country B is also a developing nation. Military strength is its priority, with the military budget often ingressing into allocations for human resources and infrastructure development. It is in security alliance with a superpower who has a large military base there and periodically allots it financial grants. It is a member of an economic bloc with which the government is currently negotiating a free trade agreement. It is not a signatory of NPT but possesses smaller nuclear weapons and delivery systems. It supports some guerrilla forces abroad. It has sought a smaller acquisition and is prepared to make some advance payment. It is currently negotiating arms purchases from another nation too. Ajit discussed this case with his counterparts in the related departments. Therein, the significant economic benefits, employment generation and stronger diplomatic relations arising from this sale were highlighted. It was also emphasized that refusing the deal could result in country B purchasing weapons from some other supplier. Ajit was aware that in arms sales, due diligence at each stage was pivotal to ensure conformity to national policy and international treaties. (a) Discuss the options available to Ajit. Which option should he select and why? (b) How can Ajit balance nation’s economic and strategic interests with ethical considerations?2026 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethics of Arms Exports and Strategic Interest
- In the present digital age, social media has revolutionized our way of communication and interaction. However, it has raised several ethical issues and challenges. Describe the key ethical dilemmas in this regard.2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Social Media Ethics
- Constitutional morality is not a natural sentiment but a product of civil education and adherence of the rule of law. Examine the significance of constitutional morality for public servant highlighting the role in promoting good governance and ensuring accountability in public administration.2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Constitutional Morality
- Carl von Clausewitz once said, “War is a diplomacy by other means.” Critically analyse the above statement in the present context of contemporary geo-political conflict.2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · War and Diplomacy
- Keeping the national security in mind, examine the ethical dilemmas related to controversies over environmental clearance of development projects in ecologically sensitive border areas in the country.2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Development and Environment Dilemma
- Those who in trouble untroubled are, Will trouble trouble itself. – Thiruvalluvar. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Moral Resilience
- The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes. – William James. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Attitude
- The strength of a society is not in its laws, but in the morality of its people. – Swami Vivekananda. What does this quotation convey to you in the present context?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Morality of Society
- For any kind of social re-engineering by successfully implementing welfare schemes, a civil servant must use reason and critical thinking in an ethical framework. Justify this statement with suitable examples.2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Reason and Critical Thinking
- What are the major teachings of Mahavir? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Mahavir Teachings
- One who is devoted to one’s duty attains highest perfection in life. Analyse this statement with reference to sense of responsibility and personal fulfilment as a civil servant.2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Duty and Public Service
- To achieve holistic development goal, a civil servant acts as an enabler and active facilitator of growth rather than a regulator. What specific measures will you suggest to achieve this goal?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Civil Servant as Enabler
- It is said that for an ethical work culture, there must be code of ethics in place in every organisation. To ensure value-based and compliance-based work culture, what suitable measures would you adopt in your work place?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Code of Ethics and Work Culture
- India is an emerging economic power of the world as it has recently secured the status of fourth largest economy of the world as per IMF projection. However, it has been observed that in some sectors, allocated funds remain either under-utilised or misutilised. What specific measures would you recommend for ensuring accountability in this regard to stop leakages and gaining the status of third largest economy of the world in near future?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Accountability in Fund Utilization
- Vijay was Deputy Commissioner of remote district of Hilly Northern State of the country for the last two years. In the month of August heavy rains lashed the complete state followed by cloud burst in the upper reaches of the said district. The damage was very heavy in the complete state especially in the affected district. The complete road network and telecommunication were disrupted and the buildings were damaged extensively. People’s houses have been destroyed and they were forced to stay in open. More than 200 people have been killed and about 5000 were badly injured. The Civil Administration under Vijay got activated and started conducting rescue and relief operations. Temporary shelter camps and hospitals were established to provide shelter and medical facilities to the homeless and injured people. Helicopter services were pressed in, for evacuating sick and old people from remote areas. Vijay got a message from his hometown in Kerala that his mother was seriously sick. After two days Vijay received the unfortunate message that his mother has expired. Vijay has no close relative except one elder sister who was US citizen and staying there for last several years. In the meantime, the situation in the affected district deteriorated further due to resumption of heavy rains after a gap of five days. At the same time, continuous messages were coming on his mobile from his hometown to reach at the earliest for performing last rites of his mother. (a) What are the options available with Vijay? (b) What are the ethical dilemma being faced by Vijay? (c) Critically evaluate and examine each of these options identified by Vijay. (d) Which of the options, do you think, would be most appropriate for Vijay to adopt and why?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Disaster Management and Personal Duty
- In line with the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Indian Constitution, the government has a constitutional obligation to ensure basic needs – “Roti, Kapda aur Makan (Food, Clothes and Shelter)” – for the under-privileged. Pursuing this mandate, the district administration proposed clearing a portion of forest land to develop housing for the homeless and economically weaker sections of the society. The proposed land, however, is an ecologically sensitive zone densely populated with age-old trees, medicinal plants and vital biodiversity. Besides, these forests help to regulate micro-climate and rainfalls; provide habitat for wildlife, support soil fertility and prevent land/soil erosion and sustain livelihoods of tribal and nomadic communities. Inspite of the ecological and social costs, the administration argues in favour of the said proposal by highlighting that this very initiative would provide housing to human rights as a critical welfare priority. Besides it, it fulfils the government’s duty to uplift and empower the poor through inclusive housing development. Further, these forest areas have become unsafe due to wild-animal threats and recurring human-wild life conflicts. Lastly, clearing forest-zones may help to curb anti-social elements allegedly using these areas as hideouts, thereby enhancing law and order. (a) Can deforestation be ethically justified in the pursuit of social welfare objectives like, housing for the homeless? (b) What are the socio-economic, administrative and ethical challenges in balancing environmental conservation with human development? (c) What substantial alternatives or policy interventions can be proposed to ensure that both environmental integrity and human dignity are protected?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Housing Welfare and Forest Conservation
- Subash is Secretary, PWD in the State Government. He is a senior officer, known for his competence, integrity and dedication to work. He enjoys the trust and confidence of Minister Incharge of PWD and Programme Implementation. As a part of his job profile, he is responsible for policy formulation, execution of projects relating to infrastructure initiatives in the State. Besides, he oversees the technical and administrative aspects relating to planning, designing and construction etc. Subash’s Minister is an important Minister in the state and significant growth in urban infrastructure development and road network has been registered during his tenure. He is very keen for launching of ambitious road construction project in the near future. Subash is in regular touch with the Minister and is working various modalities of road construction project. Regular meetings, interactions and presentations are made by him to the Minister before a formal public announcement of the project is made by the Minister. Subash’s only son Vikas is in real estate business. His son from his own sources is aware that a mega road project is on the anvil and announcement in this regard is expected anytime. He is very keen to know from his father the exact location of the upcoming project. He knows that there would be quantum jump in the prices of land at the proposed location. Buying land at this stage at cheaper prices would pay him rich dividends. He is pleading with him (his father) day in and day out to share him location of the proposed project. He assured him that he would handle the matter discreetly as it would not attract any adverse notice as he in the normal course, keeps on buying land as a part of his business. He feels pressurised because of constant pleadings by his son. Another significant aspect of the matter pertained to the extra/undue interest in the above project by the Minister PWD. His nephew was also having big infrastructure project company. In fact, the Minister has also introduced his nephew to him and indicated to him to take care of his nephew’s business interest in the forthcoming project. The Minister encouraged him to act fast in the matter as early announcement and execution of mega road project would enhance his status in the party and public life. In the above backdrop, Subash is in a fix as to the future course of action. (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case. (b) Critically examine the options available to Subash in the above situation. (c) Which of the above would be most appropriate and why?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Conflict of Interest in Infrastructure Project
- Rajesh is a Group A officer with nine years of service. He is posted as Administrative Officer in an Oil Public Sector undertaking. As an Administrative Officer he is responsible for managing and coordinating various administrative tasks to ensure smooth functioning of office. He also manages office supplies, equipment etc. Rajesh is now sufficient senior and is expecting his next promotion in JAG (Junior Administrative Grade) in the next one or two years. He knows that promotion is based on examination of ACRs/Performance Appraisal of last few years (5 years or so) of an officer by a DPC (Departmental Promotion Committee) and an officer lacking requisite grading of ACRs may not be found fit for promotion. Consequences of losing promotion may entail financial and reputational loss and set-back for career progression. Though he also puts his best efforts in official discharge of his duties, yet he is unsure of assessment by his superior officer. He is now putting extra efforts so that he gets thumping report at the end of financial year. As Administrative Officer, Rajesh is regularly interacting with his immediate boss, who is his reporting officer for writing his ACR. One day he calls Rajesh and wants him to buy computer-related stationery on priority from a particular vendor. Rajesh instructs his office to initiate action for procuring these items. During the day, the dealing Assistant brings an estimate of Rupees Thirty Five Lakhs covering all stationery items from the same vendor. It is noticed that as per delegated financial powers, as provided in the GFR (General Financial Rules) as applicable in that Organisation, expenditure for office items exceeding Rupees Thirty Lakhs requires sanction of the next higher authority (boss in the present case). Rajesh knows that immediate superior would expect all these purchases should be done at his level and may not appreciate such lack of initiative on his part. During discussions with office, he learns that common practice of splitting of expenditure (where large order is divided into a series of smaller ones) is followed to avoid obtaining sanction from higher authority. This practice is against the rules and may come to the adverse notice of Audit. Rajesh is perturbed. He is unsure of taking decision in the matter. (a) What are the options available with Rajesh in the above situation? (b) What are the ethical issues involved in this case? (c) Which would be the most appropriate option for Rajesh and why?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Procurement and Performance Appraisal
- Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Program, MGNREGA was earlier known as National Rural Employment Scheme, NREGA. It is an Indian Social Welfare Program that aimed at fulfilling the ‘Right to Work’ provisions made in the Constitution. MGNREGA was launched in 2006 under Rural Employment Sector by the Ministry of Rural Development. Main objective of the program is to give legal guarantee of wage employment to the adult members of rural households who are willing to do unskilled manual labour work subject to a maximum of 100 days per year for every household. Every rural household has the right to register under the scheme, job card is issued to the registered, Job Card holder can seek employment; State Government shall pay 25% of minimum wage for the first 30 days as compensatory daily unemployment allowance to the families and of wage for remaining period of the year. MGNREGA work was undertaken by various Gram Panchayats. You have been appointed as an Administrator Incharge of the District. You have been given the responsibility of monitoring MGNREGA work undertaken by various Gram Panchayats. You are also given the authority to give technical sanctions to all MGNREGA works. In one of the Panchayats in your jurisdiction, you notice that your predecessor has mismanaged the Program in terms of: (i) Money not disbursed to actual job-seekers. (ii) Muster Rolls of the Labourers not properly maintained. (iii) Mismatch between the work done and payments made. (iv) Payments made to fictitious persons. (v) Job Cards were given without looking into the need of person. (vi) Mismanagement of funds and to the extent of siphoning of funds. (vii) Approved works that never existed. (a) What is your reaction to the above situation and how do you restore the proper functioning of MGNREGA Program in this regard? (b) What actions would you initiate, to solve the various issues listed above? (c) How would you deal with the above situation?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · MGNREGA Mismanagement
- Ashok is Divisional Commissioner of one of the border districts of the North East State. A few years back, Military has taken over the neighbouring country after overthrowing the elected civil government. Civil war situation is prevailing in the country especially in last two years. However, internal situation further deteriorated due to rebel groups taking over control of certain populated areas near own border. Due to intense fight between military and rebel groups, civilian casualties has increased manifold in recent past. In the meantime, in one night Ashok got information from the local police guarding the border check post that there are about 200-250 people mainly women and children trying to cross over to our side of the border. There are also about 10 soldiers with their weapons in military uniform part of this group who wants to cross over. Women and Children are also crying and begging for help. A few of them are injured and bleeding profusely need immediate medical care. Ashok tried to contact Home Secretary of the State but failed to do so due to poor connectivity mainly due to inclement weather. (a) What are the options available with Ashok to cope with the situation? (b) What are the ethical and legal dilemmas being faced by Ashok? (c) Which of the options, do you think would be more appropriate for Ashok to adopt and why? (d) In the present situation, what are the extra precautionary measures to be taken by the Border Guarding Police in dealing with soldiers in uniform?2025 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Border Refugee and Security Dilemma
- Critically examine AI as a dependable input for administrative decision-making and explain key ethical dimensions shaping human action.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · AI and Administrative Ethics
- Discuss ethical considerations of powerful nations in ending wars and explain how to balance development with climate and environmental protection.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Global Ethics and Environment
- Interpret quotations of Vivekananda on learning, Sardar Patel on faith and strength, and Kant on law and ethics.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Quotes
- Examine contextual justice and explain why civil servants must prioritise substance over mindless adherence to form.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Justice and Administrative Discretion
- Suggest a code of ethics model for public administration and discuss the shift from punishment to justice under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Code of Ethics
- Examine gender-specific challenges faced by female public servants and explain how Mission Karmayogi can improve civil-service efficiency.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Civil Service Values
- ABC Incorporated AI-emissions case: as CEO, balance AI innovation, profitability, shareholder value and environmental sustainability.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · AI Sustainability Case Study
- Raman IPS case: tackle recruitment of unemployed youth by a terrorist group through social media and strengthen intelligence gathering.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Terror Recruitment Case Study
- Rohit SP naxalite case: handle armed insurgents, aggressive tribal women protesters and poor communication during a security operation.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Naxalite Operation Case Study
- Sneha hospital procurement case: decide fairly when a brother’s company bids for medical-equipment procurement and conflict of interest arises.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Procurement Ethics Case Study
- District Collector water-crisis case: balance drinking water conservation, farmer irrigation needs, industrial water use and employment concerns.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Water Crisis Case Study
- Dr. Srinivasan drug-trial case: respond to pressure to manipulate trial data, bypass consent and use patented compounds during a health emergency.2024 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Drug Trial Ethics Case Study
- Explain moral integrity and professional efficiency in corporate governance, and comment on ethics in contemporary international aid.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Corporate Governance
- Discuss corruption as a failure of core societal values and differentiate coercion from undue influence in work environments.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Corruption and Work Ethics
- Interpret quotations of Gandhi on kindness, Nehru on women’s awakening, and Vivekananda on love and hatred in the present context.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Quotes
- Discuss whether EQ matters more than IQ for success and distinguish moral intuition from moral reasoning.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Emotional Intelligence
- Assess whether conscience is a more reliable guide than laws and explain why probity is essential for governance and development.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Conscience and Probity
- Explain Guru Nanak’s major teachings and the role of social capital in good governance.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Social Capital
- Bank dormant-account case: evaluate ethical issues when a bank manager releases money from a dormant account for a colleague’s father’s surgery.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Bank Ethics Case Study
- Uttarkashi landslide case: as District Magistrate and physician, decide on emergency blood transfusion without recognised blood-bank support.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Disaster Medical Ethics Case Study
- Rashika work-life case: analyse ethical issues of unreasonable official demands on a woman civil servant and suggest legal and institutional safeguards.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Workplace Ethics Case Study
- Vinod transport-corporation case: evaluate options for an honest IAS officer facing evidence of procurement corruption involving a powerful chairman.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Bureaucracy and Corruption Case Study
- Seema architect case: as Additional Director General, address workplace humiliation by a senior architect and protect project delivery and employee dignity.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Workplace Harassment Case Study
- Social-media bullying case: analyse ethical issues when a public servant’s child is bullied online and counter-videos are used to respond to viral misinformation.2023 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Social Media Ethics Case Study
- Wisdom lies in knowing what to reckon with and what to overlook. Critically evaluate whether bureaucratic preoccupation with peripheral issues can lead to travesty of justice in effective service delivery and good governance. Also explain empathy and compassion as attributes of competent civil servants.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Wisdom and Compassion
- Rules and regulations are same for all civil servants, yet performance differs. Discuss how positive-minded officers interpret rules to achieve success while negative-minded officers may fail. Also explain how ethical values assist in resolving day-to-day conflicts.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Rules and Ethical Values
- Explain the meaning of the quotations: “Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and what is right to do”; “If a country is to be corruption-free... father, mother and teacher”; and “Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.”2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Quotations
- What do you understand by good governance? Discuss recent e-governance initiatives and ethical issues involved in online methods in administration, education and telemedicine, especially for vulnerable sections.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Good Governance and E Governance
- Russia-Ukraine war has raised ethical issues related to launching and continuing war. Illustrate the crucial ethical issues involved. Also write short notes on constitutional morality, conflict of interest, probity in public life, challenges of digitalisation and devotion to duty.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · War Ethics and Probity
- Whistle-blowers who report corruption face grave danger and victimisation. Suggest policy measures to strengthen their protection. Also critically examine whether Corporate Social Responsibility is efficient and sufficient for fulfilling corporate social responsibilities amid climate and environmental concerns.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Whistleblowing and CSR
- Prabhat, an officer in Sterling Electric Ltd., faces financial pressure and is offered confidential bid documents by a job applicant from a rival company in exchange for employment. Discuss ethical issues, options available and the most appropriate course of action.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Corporate Integrity Case Study
- Ramesh, Director in a border State Home Department, finds illegal migrants entering with forged documents and connivance of officials. Senior officers pressure him to withdraw his confidential report. Identify options, evaluate them, decide action and suggest policy measures against illegal infiltration.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Illegal Migration Case Study
- Ashok, an investigative journalist, uncovers a stone-mining mafia involving corrupt officials and a politically connected MLA after a police officer is killed. His channel management pressures him to suppress the story in return for personal benefits. Discuss options, ethical dilemmas and training needed for officials in such areas.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Illegal Mining Journalism Case Study
- As a member of a shoe-company inspection team, you are pressured to clear a rejected export consignment with poor quality for domestic sale, under threat of termination. Identify options, evaluate them, discuss ethical dilemmas and consequences of overlooking quality defects.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Product Quality Case Study
- Rakesh, Joint Commissioner in the Transport Department, faces a drivers’ union strike demanding extra compensation and employment for the family of a driver who died after an altercation while on duty. Identify options, evaluate them, discuss ethical dilemmas and choose a course of action.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Transport Strike Case Study
- As an officer in the Environment Pollution Control Board, you find many small and medium industries violating environmental compliance while employing migrant workers. Your notices trigger hostility from industry, workers and politicians, while NGOs demand closure. Identify options, examine them, suggest compliance mechanisms and discuss ethical dilemmas.2022 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Environmental Compliance Case Study
- Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil servant and justify their inclusion. Also identify ten essential values needed to be an effective public servant and describe ways to prevent non-ethical behaviour in public servants.2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Civil Service Values
- Impact of digital technology as a reliable source of input for rational decision making is debatable. Critically evaluate with a suitable example. Also discuss how innovativeness and creativity help a public official resolve ethical dilemmas.2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Digital Decision Making
- Explain the meaning of the quotations: “Every work has got to pass through hundreds of difficulties before succeeding”; “We can never obtain peace in the outer world until and unless we obtain peace within ourselves”; and “Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence.”2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Quotations
- Attitude is an important component in the development of human beings. How can a suitable attitude needed for a public servant be built? In a crisis of conscience, does emotional intelligence help without compromising ethical and moral stand? Critically examine.2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Attitude and Emotional Intelligence
- Refugees should not be turned back to a country where they face persecution or human rights violation. Examine the ethical dimension involved. Also discuss whether impartiality and non-partisanship are indispensable qualities for a successful civil servant.2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Refugees and Impartiality
- An independent and empowered social audit mechanism is an absolute must in every sphere of public service, including the judiciary, to ensure performance, accountability and ethical conduct. Elaborate. Also justify the statement that integrity is a value that empowers the human being.2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Social Audit and Integrity
- Sunil, a young civil servant, is posted in a tribal-dominated district affected by illegal sand mining. After initiating strict action, he and his family are threatened by the mining mafia. Identify his options, evaluate them and decide the most appropriate course of action.2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Illegal Sand Mining Case Study
- As Vice Principal of a college, you discover examination malpractice involving two influential students and a senior lecturer close to management. Management pressures you to resolve the issue with the flying squad because your promotion may depend on it. Discuss ethical issues, options and your course of action.2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Examination Malpractice Case Study
- As project manager of an elevated corridor, you discover cracks in piers caused by poor material. Senior authorities direct you to overlook it to meet a political deadline. Identify options, ethical dilemmas, professional challenges and consequences of ignoring inspection findings.2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Infrastructure Safety Case Study
- As hospital administrator during the COVID-19 pandemic, you face large patient inflow, staff risk and limited infrastructure. What criteria will justify deploying clinical and non-clinical staff, and would your jurisdiction differ in a private hospital?2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · COVID Hospital Administration Case Study
- A reputed food company sells a domestic product below approved health standards and rejected export products in the domestic market. What action should competent authority take, what options are available to the company to restore reputation, and what ethical dilemmas are involved?2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Food Standards Case Study
- Pawan, a government officer, faces persistent humiliation and harassment by a senior officer, affecting his confidence, mental health and family life. What options are available, what approach should he adopt, and what suggestions and training are needed for boss-subordinate relations?2021 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Workplace Harassment Case Study
- Discuss the role of ethics and values in enhancing the following three major components of Comprehensive National Power: human capital, soft power, and social harmony.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethics and National Power
- Education is not an injunction, it is an effective and pervasive tool for all-round development of an individual and social transformation. Examine the New Education Policy, 2020 in light of the above statement.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Education and Ethics
- Hatred is destructive of a person's wisdom and conscience that can poison a nation's spirit. Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Hate and Conscience
- What are the main components of emotional intelligence? Can they be learned? Discuss.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Emotional Intelligence
- What teachings of Buddha are most relevant today and why? Discuss.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Buddha's Teachings
- The will to power exists, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty. Examine this statement in the context of international relations.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethics in International Relations
- Distinguish between laws and rules. Discuss the role of ethics in formulating them.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Law and Ethics
- A positive attitude is considered to be an essential characteristic of a civil servant who is often required to function under extreme stress. What contributes to a positive attitude in a person?2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Attitude
- What are the main factors responsible for gender inequality in India? Discuss the contribution of Savitribai Phule in this regard.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Gender Justice
- The current internet expansion has instilled a different set of cultural values which are often in conflict with traditional values. Discuss.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Technology and Values
- What does this quotation mean to you: Condemn none; if you can stretch out a helping hand, do so. If not, fold your hands, bless your brothers, and let them go their own way. - Swami Vivekananda.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Thinkers
- What does this quotation mean to you: The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. - Mahatma Gandhi.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Thinkers
- What does this quotation mean to you: A system of morality which is based on relative emotional values is a mere illusion, a thoroughly vulgar conception which has nothing sound in it and nothing true. - Socrates.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Thinkers
- Rajesh Kumar, a senior public servant in the Finance Ministry, must process re-appropriation of funds from the National Housing Scheme to two developmental projects, including an SEZ and a gas processing plant, under political pressure. Discuss the ethical issues involved in re-appropriation of funds from a welfare project to developmental projects. Given the need for proper utilization of public funds, discuss the options available to Rajesh Kumar. Is resigning a worthy option?2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Public Finance Ethics
- The Chairman of Bharat Missiles Ltd is asked to discuss increasing production of anti-tank guided missiles for export to a friendly foreign country after the Prime Minister's call for self-reliance and the Defence Minister's aim to double weapons exports. As an arms exporter of a responsible nation like India, what ethical issues are involved in arms trade? List five ethical factors that would influence the decision to sell arms to foreign governments.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Arms Trade Ethics
- Rampura, a backward tribal district, faces poverty, migration and child labour of minor girls in Bt cotton farms of a nearby state, with poor working conditions and compromised NGOs. You are appointed as District Collector. Identify the ethical issues involved. Which specific steps will you initiate to ameliorate the condition of minor girls and improve the overall economic scenario in the district?2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Child Labour Ethics
- You are a municipal commissioner. A mall under construction collapses during monsoon, killing labourers including minors. Enquiry reveals poor quality material, illegal extra basement, encroachment of green belt and slip road, official-builder nexus, political pressure, bribery attempt, and threat of a false POSH case. Discuss the ethical issues involved. What options are available to you and what course of action will you choose?2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Urban Governance Ethics
- Parmal is an underdeveloped district where Amria Plastic Works created local employment, trained workers, improved village quality of life, used CSR for health, education, self-help groups and ambulance services, maintained fire safety, rectified excess electricity use, and paid workers during lockdown while using them for habitat improvement. Critically analyse the story of APW and state the ethical issues involved. Do you consider APW a role model for backward-area development? Give reasons.2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Corporate Social Responsibility
- Migrant workers have remained socio-economic margins of society, but the lockdown forced many to return to villages amid loss of livelihood, starvation fears, lack of transport and inadequate shelter. You oversaw District Disaster Relief Force functioning. What ethical issues arose in the migrant crisis? What do you understand by an ethical care-giving state? What assistance can civil society render to mitigate migrants' suffering in similar situations?2020 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Migrant Welfare Ethics
- What are the basic principles of public life? Illustrate any three of these with suitable examples.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Public Life
- What do you understand by the term public servant? Reflect on the expected role of public servant.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Public Service
- Effective utilization of public funds is crucial to meet development goals. Critically examine the reasons for under-utilization and mis-utilization of public funds and their implications.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Public Funds
- Non-performance of duty by a public servant is a form of corruption. Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Public Service
- What is meant by the term constitutional morality? How does one uphold constitutional morality?2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Constitutional Morality
- What is meant by crisis of conscience? How does it manifest itself in the public domain?2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Conscience
- Explain the basic principles of citizens charter movement and bring out its importance.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Citizen Charter
- There is a view that the Official Secrets Act is an obstacle to the implementation of Right to Information Act. Do you agree with the view? Discuss.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Transparency
- What do you understand by probity in governance? Based on your understanding of the term, suggest measures for ensuring probity in government.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Probity
- Emotional Intelligence is the ability to make your emotions work for you instead of against you. Do you agree with this view? Discuss.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Emotional Intelligence
- What does this quotation mean to you: An unexamined life is not worth living. - Socrates.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Thinkers
- What does this quotation mean to you: A man is but a product of his thoughts. What he thinks he becomes. - M.K. Gandhi.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Thinkers
- What does this quotation mean to you: Where there is righteousness in the heart, there is beauty in the character. When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home. When there is harmony in the home, there is order in the nation. When there is order in the nation, there is peace in the world. - A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Thinkers
- You are heading rescue operations in an area affected by severe natural calamity. Thousands are homeless and deprived of food, drinking water and basic amenities; rescue work is disrupted by heavy rainfall and damaged supply routes; local people are angry and assault some team members, one of whom is severely injured. Some team members plead to call off operations fearing threats to life. In such circumstances, what will be your response? Examine the qualities of a public servant required to manage the situation.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Disaster Ethics
- Honesty and uprightness are hallmarks of civil servants. In the line of duty, civil servants take decisions and at times some become bona fide mistakes. Recently, some civil servants have been implicated, prosecuted or imprisoned for bona fide mistakes, rattling the moral fibre of the services. How does this trend affect the functioning of civil services? What measures can ensure honest civil servants are not implicated for bona fide mistakes? Justify your answer.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Civil Service Accountability
- An apparel manufacturing company with many women employees hired a marketing executive who increased sales, but reports arose about sexual harassment. A woman employee complained to management, then lodged an FIR when the company ignored her grievance. The company offered money to withdraw the complaint and state that the executive was not involved. Identify the ethical issues involved. What options are available to the woman employee?2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Workplace Ethics
- In a democratic polity, elected representatives form the political executive and bureaucracy forms the permanent executive. Earlier their relationship was based on mutual understanding, respect and cooperation. Later, political executives have increasingly insisted that permanent executives follow their agenda, intervened in routine administrative matters, and upright bureaucrats face declining appreciation. What are the consequences of politicization of bureaucracy? Discuss.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Politicisation of Bureaucracy
- In a frontier district, narcotics menace has led to money laundering, poppy farming, arms smuggling and near stalling of education. Reports suggest patronage by local politicians and senior police officers. A woman police officer known for handling such situations is appointed superintendent of police. If you are that officer, identify the dimensions of the crisis and suggest measures to deal with it.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Narcotics and Law Enforcement Ethics
- There is increasing concern in India to develop effective civil service ethics, codes of conduct, transparency measures, integrity systems and anti-corruption agencies. Focus is needed on anticipating threats to ethical standards, strengthening ethical competence of civil servants, and developing administrative processes that promote ethical values and integrity. Suggest institutional measures to address these issues.2019 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Civil Services Reform
- State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance. Distinguish between Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct with suitable examples.2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Civil Service Values
- What is meant by public interest? What are the principles and procedures to be followed by civil servants in public interest? The Right to Information Act is not all about citizens’ empowerment alone; it essentially redefines accountability. Discuss.2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Public Interest and RTI
- What is meant by conflict of interest? Illustrate with examples the difference between actual and potential conflict of interest. Explain Warren Buffett’s statement on integrity, intelligence and energy in the present-day scenario.2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Conflict of Interest
- In doing a good thing, everything is permitted which is not prohibited expressly or by clear implication. Examine with examples in the context of a public servant. With regard to morality of actions, one view is that means are paramount and the other is that ends justify means. Which view is more appropriate?2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Means and Ends
- Suppose the Government of India is thinking of constructing a dam in a mountain valley bounded by forests and inhabited by ethnic communities. What rational policy should it resort to in dealing with unforeseen contingencies? Explain the process of resolving ethical dilemmas in public administration.2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Dilemmas
- What do the following quotations mean in the present context: the true rule is whether a thing has more evil than good; anger and intolerance are enemies of correct understanding; falsehood takes the place of truth when it results in unblemished common good.2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Quotations
- Rakesh is a district-level officer entrusted with identifying beneficiaries under a senior-citizen healthcare scheme. An old couple fulfils all criteria except reserved-community status, but financial aid would significantly improve their quality of life. How should Rakesh respond?2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Healthcare Beneficiary Case Study
- As a senior officer, you know of a confidential mega road project before announcement. A minister asks you to realign the project near his farmhouse and offers to help your wife buy nearby land. Realignment causes extra land acquisition, farmer displacement and tree cutting. What will you do? Examine conflicts of interest and responsibilities.2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Road Project Case Study
- You are Superintendent of Police in a prohibition state where illicit liquor causes many deaths. Raids, arrests and trials have had limited impact. The affected area is backward, poorly irrigated, conflict-prone and neglected. What new approach will you adopt to bring the problem under control?2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Illicit Liquor Case Study
- A corporate chemical unit permitted near a city caused pollution, health problems and agitation. The State ordered its closure, causing unemployment and affecting ancillary units and dependent industries. As a senior officer handling this issue, how will you address it?2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Industrial Pollution Case Study
- Dr. X plans a charitable super-specialty hospital in a neglected region. Your tax investigation finds substantial tax withholding and some technical defaults. He agrees to pay substantial dues. Will you ignore technical defaults in broader public interest or proceed strictly on all fronts? Which course will you opt for and why?2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Tax Compliance Case Study
- Edward Snowden released confidential government documents about surveillance programmes, arguing a moral duty to inform the public despite legal prohibition. Do you agree his actions were ethically justified even if legally prohibited? Weigh the competing values in this case.2018 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Whistleblowing Case Study
- Conflict of interest in the public sector arises when official duties, public interest and personal interest take priority one above the other. How can this conflict in administration be resolved? Describe with an example.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Conflict of Interest
- Examine the relevance of transparency, accountability, fairness and justice, courage of conviction, and spirit of service in the context of civil service.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Civil Service Values
- Young people with ethical conduct are not willing to come forward to join active politics. Suggest steps to motivate them to come forward.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Politics
- One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real-life example. Corporate social responsibility makes companies more profitable and sustainable. Analyse.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Integrity and CSR
- Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts depending on principles. Mention rulers who harmed society and country and those who worked for development. Also analyse A. P. J. Abdul Kalam’s view that father, mother and teacher can help make a country corruption free and a nation of beautiful minds.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ambition and Anti Corruption Values
- How will you apply emotional intelligence in administrative practices? Also elucidate how strength, peace and security are considered pillars of international relations.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Emotional Intelligence and Security
- The crisis of ethical values in modern times is traced to a narrow perception of the good life. Discuss. Also justify how increased national wealth has created enclaves of modernity and prosperity for a small minority at the cost of the majority.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethics and Equity
- Discipline generally implies following order and subordination, but it may be counter-productive for an organisation. Discuss. Also explain why widely entrenched moral values and obligations are necessary for law, democratic government and market economy.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Discipline and Moral Values
- You are an honest and responsible civil servant. Examine common arguments against ethical conduct: it may cause personal and family difficulty; unfair practices may help career goals; a small ethical minority makes no difference; ethics may hurt developmental goals; and small gifts may make the system efficient. Examine these statements with merits and demerits.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Conduct Case Study
- You are an IAS aspirant selected for the personal interview. On the way to the venue, you see an accident where a mother and child, who are your relatives, are badly injured and need immediate help. What would you do and why?2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Interview Accident Case Study
- You are head of HR in an organisation. A worker died on duty, but investigation shows he was drunk. The company denies compensation; workers go on strike demanding compensation for the family. The chairman asks for your recommendation. What recommendation would you provide? Discuss merits and demerits.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Compensation Case Study
- You are negotiating a critical business deal. After dinner, the other manager driving you hits and injures a motorcyclist due to rash driving. You are the sole eyewitness, and honest testimony may jeopardise the deal. What dilemmas do you face and what will be your response?2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Witness Ethics Case Study
- A building permitted for three floors is illegally extended to six floors by a builder and collapses, killing migrant labourers including women and children. The government announces relief and arrests the builder. Give reasons for such incidents and suggest preventive measures.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Illegal Construction Case Study
- You are a Public Information Officer. RTI is meant for transparency and accountability, but you observe proxy applications and extortionist RTI activism affecting administration. What measures would you suggest to separate genuine and non-genuine applications? Give merits and demerits.2017 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · RTI Misuse Case Study
- Explain how ethics contributes to social and human well-being. Why should impartiality and non-partisanship be considered foundational values in public services, especially in the present day socio-political context? Illustrate with examples.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethics and Human Well-being
- What do you understand by governance, good governance and ethical governance? Discuss Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of seven sins.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Governance and Gandhi’s Seven Sins
- Analyse John Rawls’s concept of social justice in the Indian context. Discuss the Public Services Code as recommended by the 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Social Justice and Public Service Code
- Corruption causes misuse of government treasury, administrative inefficiency and obstruction in the path of national development. Discuss Kautilya’s views. How could social influence and persuasion contribute to the success of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan?2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Corruption and Social Influence
- Law and ethics are considered two tools for controlling human conduct to make it conducive to civilized social existence. Discuss how they achieve this objective and, with examples, show how they differ in their approaches.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Law and Ethics
- Our attitudes towards life, work, other people and society are generally shaped unconsciously by family and social surroundings. Discuss undesirable values prevalent in today’s educated Indians and how such attitudes can be changed and socio-ethical values necessary in public services cultivated in aspiring and serving civil servants.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Attitude and Values
- Anger is a harmful negative emotion injurious to both personal and work life. Discuss how it leads to negative emotions and undesirable behaviour, and how it can be managed and controlled.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Anger Management
- Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public administration the sort of moral and ethical norms we apply to matters of personal conscience, and that state bureaucracy might possess its own independent bureaucratic morality. Critically analyse this statement.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Bureaucratic Morality
- A fresh engineering graduate working in a chemical industry discovers that highly toxic waste is secretly discharged into a river, causing health problems to villagers. Colleagues advise silence because whistleblowers are dismissed. She is sole breadwinner but her conscience pricks her. What arguments can you advance to show that keeping quiet is not morally right, and what course of action would you advise and why?2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Toxic Waste Whistleblowing Case Study
- Land for mining, dams and large projects is acquired mostly from Adivasis, hill dwellers and rural communities. Compensation is often delayed and cannot sustain livelihoods, while benefits go to industries and urban communities. If tasked with drafting a better compensation-cum-rehabilitation policy, how would you approach the problem and what would be its main elements?2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Displacement and Rehabilitation Case Study
- You are implementing a social service scheme for old and destitute women. An old illiterate woman lacks documents to prove eligibility, but your enquiry shows she is genuinely destitute and needs support. Putting her under the scheme violates rules, but denying support is cruel. Can you think of a rational way to resolve the dilemma? Give reasons.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Destitute Woman Welfare Case Study
- You are a young government employee assisting a respected superior. During a visit to his home you discover he behaves badly with and beats his wife. In office he is kind and helpful. Analyse the options of ignoring it as personal, reporting to authority, or using your own innovative approach, with consequences.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Domestic Violence in Office Superior Case Study
- ABC Ltd., a large transnational company, plans a new energy-efficient plant in underdeveloped Vikaspuri with government tax incentives. The plant may raise cost of living, bring migration, and disturb the social order. Protests begin despite CSR assurances. Identify the issues involved and suggest ways to satisfy the company’s goal while addressing residents’ concerns.2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · CSR and Industrial Plant Case Study
- Saraswati, a successful IT professional returned to India and formed an NGO to build a school for a poor rural community. She faces confusing rules, delays, callous officials and bribe demands. Government control over voluntary social work is necessary, but should not be coercive or corrupt. What measures can ensure due control without thwarting honest NGO efforts?2016 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · NGO and Regulatory Corruption Case Study
- What is meant by environmental ethics? Why is it important to study? Discuss any one environmental issue from the viewpoint of environmental ethics. Differentiate between law and ethics, ethical management and management of ethics, discrimination and preferential treatment, and personal ethics and professional ethics.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Environmental Ethics
- Given are two quotations of moral thinkers/philosophers. For each of these bring out what it means to you in the present context: The weak can never forgive; forgiveness is the attribute of the strong. We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Moral Thinkers
- A mere compliance with law is not enough; the public servant also has to have a well-developed sensibility to ethical issues for effective discharge of duties. Do you agree? Explain with examples where an act is ethically right but not legal and where an act is legally right but not ethical. How do the virtues of trustworthiness and fortitude get manifested in public service?2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Legal and Ethical Conduct
- Social values are more important than economic values. Discuss with examples in the context of inclusive growth. Recent developments such as RTI, media and judicial activism are helpful in transparency and accountability, but may also be misused and make officers afraid to take prompt decisions. Analyse the situation and suggest how the dichotomy can be resolved.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Social Values and Transparency
- Two different kinds of attitudes exhibited by public servants towards their work have been identified as bureaucratic attitude and democratic attitude. Distinguish between these two terms and write their merits and demerits. Is it possible to balance the two to create a better administration for faster development of our country?2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Bureaucratic and Democratic Attitude
- Today, in spite of prescribing codes of conduct, vigilance cells and commissions, RTI, active media and strengthening of legal mechanisms, corrupt practices are not coming under control. Evaluate the effectiveness of these measures and suggest more effective strategies to tackle this menace.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Corruption Control
- At the international level, bilateral relations between most nations are governed by promoting one’s own national interest without regard for the interests of other nations. This leads to conflicts and tension. How can ethical consideration help resolve such tensions? Discuss with specific examples.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethics in International Relations
- Public servants are likely to confront issues of conflict of interest. What do you understand by conflict of interest and how does it manifest in decision-making by public servants? If faced with such a situation, how would you resolve it? Explain with examples.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Conflict of Interest
- A private company known for efficiency, transparency and employee welfare faces gate-crashing by political workers demanding jobs and threatening management and employees. As CEO, what would you do to diffuse the volatile situation, what long-term solution would you suggest, and what would be the positive and negative consequences of your actions for yourself, employees and company performance?2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Workplace Integrity Case Study
- You are the Sarpanch of a Panchayat. A new cook from the Dalit community is appointed for the government school midday meal. Parents of higher-caste children stop their children from eating and attendance falls sharply, threatening the school and scheme. Discuss feasible strategies to overcome the conflict and the responsibilities of social segments and agencies to create a positive social ambiance.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Caste and Midday Meal Case Study
- A scientist in a pharmaceutical company discovers that a bestselling veterinary drug may cure an incurable liver disease prevalent in tribal areas. Developing a human variant would cost Rs. 50 crore and recovery of cost is unlikely due to poverty-stricken markets. If you were the CEO, identify possible actions and evaluate the pros and cons of each.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Pharmaceutical Ethics Case Study
- In a disaster-prone state, a cloudburst causes devastating floods and landslides, trapping pilgrims, tourists, locals, senior citizens, hospital patients, women and children, hikers, political leaders, a senior official and prisoners. As a civil services officer, what would be the order in which you would rescue these people and why? Give justifications.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Disaster Rescue Priority Case Study
- You head a district administration department and are asked to prepare for a superior officer’s visit to a plot selected for building a school. On inspection, you find the plot is part of Thakurgarh fort, inconvenient for children, costly to develop, and possibly acquired through vested interests. List likely vested interests, discuss merits and demerits of available options, and suggest any other justified option.2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Heritage Site and School Case Study
- As district development officer, you find tension in rural areas over girls going to school. Elders oppose girls’ education, younger people support it, and after molestation of some girls a law-and-order problem arises. Elders decide to socially boycott families sending girls to school. What steps would you take to ensure girls’ safety without disrupting education, and how would you manage patriarchal attitudes to ensure harmony?2015 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Girls Education and Patriarchy Case Study
- All human beings aspire for happiness. Do you agree? What does happiness mean to you? Explain with answers.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Happiness
- What does ethics seek to promote in human life? Why is it all the more important in Public Administration?2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethics in Public Administration
- In the context of defence services, patriotism demands readiness to even lay down one’s life in protecting the nation. According to you, what does patriotism imply in everyday civil life? Explain with illustrations and justify your answer.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Patriotism
- What do you understand about probity in public life? What are the difficulties in practicing it in the present times? How can these difficulties be overcome?2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Probity
- Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, but knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful. What do you understand by this statement? Explain your stand with illustrations from modern day context.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Integrity and Knowledge
- Human beings should always be treated as ends in themselves and never as means. Explain the meaning and significance of this statement, giving its implications in the modern techno-economic society.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Human Dignity
- Which eminent personality has inspired you the most in the context of ethical conduct in life? Give the gist of his/her teachings. Giving specific examples describe how you have been able to apply these teachings for your own ethical development.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Inspiration
- There is a heavy ethical responsibility on public servants because they occupy positions of power, handle huge public funds, and their decisions have wide-ranging impact on society and environment. What steps have you taken to improve your ethical competence to handle such responsibility?2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Ethical Competence
- The current society is plagued with widespread trust-deficit. What are the consequences of this situation for personal well-being and societal well-being? What can you do at the personal level to make yourself trustworthy?2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Trust Deficit
- It is often said that poverty leads to corruption. However, there are many instances where affluent and powerful people indulge in corruption in a big way. What are the basic causes of corruption among people? Support your answer with examples.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Corruption
- What factors affect the formation of a person’s attitude towards social problems? In our society, contrasting attitudes are prevalent about many social problems. What contrasting attitudes do you notice about the caste system? How do you explain the existence of these contrasting attitudes?2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Attitude and Caste
- What does accountability mean in the context of public service? What measures can be adopted to ensure individual and collective accountability of public servants?2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Accountability
- We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Sexual Violence
- There is increasing thrust on economic development and increasing concern about environmental degradation caused by development. Many times there is direct conflict between development activity and environmental quality. Discuss strategies to eliminate this conflict and lead to sustainable development.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Development vs Environment
- A close friend aspiring for civil services raises doubts about whether individual ethical conduct matters in an unethical environment, whether a small ethical minority can be effective, whether ethics hampers development, and whether small gratifications improve motivation. Critically analyse these viewpoints and advise your friend.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Ethical Conduct in Public Service
- You are an honest officer transferred to a remote department known for inefficiency. After disciplining troublemakers, they instigate a woman employee to file a sexual harassment complaint against you. Evaluate possible options and suggest the best course of action with reasons.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · False Complaint and Discipline
- You are CEO of a company manufacturing equipment for a government department. Your bid is better in quality and cost, but the concerned officer demands a hefty bribe. Getting the order is important but you do not want to give bribe. Present arguments for both sides and outline a better third way if possible.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Bribe for Tender
- Rameshwar joins civil services and finds misappropriation of funds, misuse of official facilities, and cheating in recruitment exams. Seniors advise him to keep quiet. He seeks your advice. Indicate options, evaluate them and choose the most appropriate path.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Malpractices in Department
- Migration of rural people to towns and cities is increasing drastically, causing serious problems in both rural and urban areas. Analyse socio-economic, emotional and attitudinal factors, explain different migration patterns, and suggest feasible steps to control the problem.2014 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Rural-Urban Migration
- What do you understand by ‘values’ and ‘ethics’? In what way is it important to be ethical along with being professionally competent?2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Values and Ethics
- What do you understand by the following terms in the context of public service: Integrity, Perseverance, Spirit of service, Commitment, Courage of conviction?2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Public Service Attributes
- Indicate two more attributes which you consider important for public service. Justify your answer.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Public Service Attributes
- Some people feel that values keep changing with time and situation, while others strongly believe that there are certain universal and eternal human values. Give your perception in this regard with due justification.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Human Values
- What is emotional intelligence and how can it be developed in people? How does it help an individual in making ethical decisions?2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Emotional Intelligence
- What do you understand about the term ‘voice of conscience’? How do you prepare yourself to heed to the voice of conscience?2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Voice of Conscience
- What is meant by ‘crisis of conscience’? Narrate one incident in your life when you were faced with such a crisis and how you resolved the same.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Crisis of Conscience
- There is enough on this earth for every one’s need but for no one’s greed. Mahatma Gandhi.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Gandhi Quotation
- Nearly all men can withstand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power. Abraham Lincoln.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Power and Character
- I count him braver who overcomes his desires than he who overcomes his enemies. Aristotle.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Self-control
- The good of an individual is contained in the good of all. What do you understand by this statement? How can this principle be implemented in public life?2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Good of All
- It is often said that politics and ethics do not go together. What is your opinion in this regard? Justify your answer with illustrations.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics · Politics and Ethics
- A Public Information Officer has received an application under RTI Act. Having gathered the information, the PIO discovers that the information pertains to some of the decisions taken by him, which were found to be not altogether right. There were other employees also who were party to these decisions. Disclosure of the information is likely to lead to disciplinary action with possibility of punishment against him as well as some of his colleagues. Non-disclosure or part disclosure or camouflaged disclosure of information will result in lesser punishment or no punishment. The PIO is otherwise an honest and conscientious person but this particular decision turned out to be wrong. Evaluate the suggested options and indicate what you would advise, giving proper reasons.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · RTI Disclosure
- You are working as an Executive Engineer in the construction cell of a Municipal Corporation and are in-charge of construction of a flyover. Surprise inspection reveals serious deviations likely to affect safety. Rectification would require demolition, rework, loss to contractor and delay. The Chief Engineer advises ignoring the lapse to complete the project in time. Evaluate possible options and suggest your course of action with reasons.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Flyover Safety
- Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu is known for firecracker and match manufacturing clusters. On visiting a household-based unit, you notice 10-15 children below 14 years of age, and the owner claims they are relatives though this is not satisfactorily established. Bring out the ethical issues involved and state your reaction after the visit.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Child Labour in Sivakasi
- You are heading a leading technical institute. Before an interview for professors, the Personal Secretary of a senior government functionary seeks your intervention in favour of a close relative and links it to approval of pending modernization funds. What options are available to you? Evaluate each and choose the option you would adopt with reasons.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Academic Selection Pressure
- As a senior officer in the Finance Ministry, you have confidential information about policy decisions likely to impact the housing and construction industry. Your immediate superior asks you to disclose it to a builder. What options are available to you? Evaluate each and choose the option you would adopt with reasons.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Confidential Policy Information
- You are the Executive Director of an upcoming Infotech Company. A star performer is accused by a female colleague of misconduct, indecent messages, undesirable advances and inappropriate touching. She resigns and leaves your office. What options are available to you? Evaluate each and choose the option you would adopt with reasons.2013 · Mains GS4 · Ethics Case Study · Workplace Harassment