Public servants are individuals entrusted with public duties, holding positions of authority and responsibility. Their attitudes significantly impact governance, broadly categorized as "bureaucratic" and "democratic."

Bureaucratic Attitude

This attitude prioritizes adherence to rules, hierarchy, and established procedures. Drawing from Max Weber's theories on bureaucracy, it emphasizes efficiency and impartiality. Merits:

• Predictability and Order: Standardized procedures ensure consistent application of rules. Example: Passport Seva Kendra's streamlined application process.
• Impartiality and Fairness: Decisions based on rules minimize bias and favoritism. Example: UPSC's standardized examination process.
• Accountability: Clear hierarchies establish responsibility for actions. Example: CAG audits of government departments. Demerits:
• Rigidity and Inflexibility: Strict adherence to rules can hinder responsiveness to unique situations. Example: Delays in disaster relief due to procedural bottlenecks.
• Impersonal Approach: Focus on rules can lead to a lack of empathy and citizen-centricity. Example: Complex documentation requirements for social welfare schemes.
• Red Tape and Inefficiency: Excessive procedures can create delays and hinder service delivery. Example: Lengthy land acquisition processes for infrastructure projects.

Democratic Attitude

This attitude emphasizes citizen participation, responsiveness, and public accountability. It aligns with Gandhi's philosophy of Swaraj, empowering citizens in governance. Merits:

• Responsiveness and Citizen-Centricity: Focus on public needs leads to better service delivery. Example: MyGov platform for citizen engagement.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Openness to feedback allows for adaptation to changing circumstances. Example: Participatory budgeting initiatives in Gram Panchayats.
• Transparency and Accountability: Public scrutiny promotes ethical conduct and responsible governance. Example: Right to Information Act, 2005. Demerits:
• Inefficiency and Delays: Extensive consultations can slow down decision-making. Example: Protracted environmental impact assessments for development projects.
• Susceptibility to Populism: Prioritizing popular opinion over expert advice can lead to suboptimal outcomes. Example: Farm loan waivers impacting fiscal stability.
• Compromised Impartiality: Pressure from interest groups can influence decisions, compromising fairness. Example: Lobbying by industry groups for favorable regulations.

A balanced approach, integrating the strengths of both attitudes, is crucial. By fostering a culture of accountability within a citizen-centric framework, India can achieve efficient and equitable development. This involves empowering public servants with discretion while upholding transparency and public engagement, ensuring both effective governance and responsiveness to citizen needs.