Public interest signifies the welfare and well-being of the general public, encompassing social, economic, and environmental dimensions. It often necessitates balancing competing interests and values, creating ethical dilemmas for civil servants.

Upholding Constitutional Values

This theme emphasizes aligning actions with constitutional principles. Drawing from the Indian Constitution's preamble, which emphasizes justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, civil servants must prioritize these values. Rawls's theory of justice further emphasizes fairness and equitable distribution of resources.

• Promoting Inclusive Growth: Policies should benefit all sections of society, not just a select few.
  • Example: The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA, 2005) aims to provide employment and social security in rural India.
• Protecting Fundamental Rights: Decisions must respect individual freedoms and rights.
  • Example: The Puttaswamy judgment (2017) by the Supreme Court of India upheld the right to privacy as a fundamental right.
• Ensuring Environmental Sustainability: Development should not come at the cost of environmental degradation.
  • Example: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) plays a crucial role in environmental protection and enforcement of environmental laws.

Ethical Decision-Making Procedures

This theme focuses on established procedures that guide ethical conduct. Deontological ethics, as proposed by Immanuel Kant, emphasizes duty and adherence to moral rules.

• Due Diligence: Thoroughly researching and considering all relevant factors before making a decision.
  • Example: Environmental impact assessments are conducted before undertaking large infrastructure projects.
• Transparency and Accountability: Openness in decision-making processes and taking responsibility for actions.
  • Example: The Right to Information Act (2005) empowers citizens to access government information.
• Whistleblowing Mechanisms: Protecting individuals who report wrongdoing within the government.
  • Example: The Whistle Blowers Protection Act (2013) provides a legal framework for protecting whistleblowers.

In conclusion, upholding public interest requires a commitment to constitutional values and adherence to ethical decision-making procedures. By integrating these principles, civil servants can contribute to a just, equitable, and efficient governance system, reflecting the ideals of Sarvodaya, the upliftment of all, as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi.