Public service is the bedrock of a just and equitable society, demanding specific attributes from those entrusted with its responsibilities. The question of which qualities are most crucial for effective governance raises complex ethical dilemmas.

Attributes of Public Service

This theme explores essential qualities beyond integrity and accountability, focusing on those vital for fostering public trust and delivering effective governance. Aristotle's virtue ethics emphasizes the importance of character in ethical decision-making, highlighting the relevance of these attributes.

• Objectivity: Impartiality and fairness are crucial for just decision-making.
  • Example: The setting up of independent commissions like the Election Commission of India demonstrates a commitment to objective processes.
• Transparency: Openness builds trust and allows for public scrutiny, promoting accountability.
  • Example: The Right to Information Act, 2005, empowers citizens to access government information, fostering transparency.
• Responsiveness: Public servants must be attentive to the needs of the citizens they serve.
  • Example: The establishment of online portals for grievance redressal, such as the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), aims to enhance responsiveness.

Public servants embodying these attributes, guided by ethical principles and constitutional values like social justice (Article 38), contribute to a more effective and equitable governance framework. Cultivating these qualities is essential for building a robust and responsive public service dedicated to the welfare of all citizens.