Subject: Governance

Public trust and positive perception of civil servants' integrity form the bedrock of democratic governance. Recent data showing 110 corruption cases against 166 civil servants between 2018-2023 highlights the critical need to address this issue comprehensively.

Importance of Positive Public Perception

• Democratic Legitimacy: Civil servants as implementers of public policy require citizens' trust to ensure effective governance and policy compliance.
• Service Delivery: Positive perception enables smooth delivery of government services and better citizen participation in governance (e.g., Jan Bhagidari initiatives).
• Administrative Efficiency: Trust in civil servants' integrity leads to better cooperation from citizens, reducing administrative friction and improving service delivery.

Challenges in Maintaining Public Trust

• Corruption Cases: High-profile corruption cases damage public confidence (e.g., Maharashtra's 35 cases, highest among states).
• Bureaucratic Red-tapism: Delays and complicated procedures often create negative perceptions about civil servants' commitment.
• Lack of Transparency: Limited access to information about administrative decisions affects public trust.

Measures to Build Positive Perception

• Institutional Mechanisms:

  • Implementation of Central Vigilance Commission recommendations.
  • Strengthening Lokpal and anti-corruption frameworks.
  • Regular ethics and integrity training programs for civil servants.

• Transparency Initiatives:

  • Adoption of e-governance platforms for service delivery.
  • Use of RTI, social audits, and public dashboards to make administration open and people-centric.
  • Strengthen citizen charters and time-bound service delivery laws.

• Performance-Based Evaluation:

  • Move beyond seniority and secrecy in promotions, link rewards to outcomes and innovation.
  • Use tools like 360° feedback in a fair and non-political manner.

• Insulate from Political Pressure:

  • Implement fixed tenure systems (as recommended by the Supreme Court in T.S.R. Subramanian case, 2013).
  • Strengthen independent civil service boards for appointments and transfers.

The foundation of democratic governance rests on the twin pillars of integrity and public trust. Strengthening these through initiatives like Mission Karmayogi and Civil Services Day celebrations can help build a more responsive and trusted civil service, essential for India's democratic future.