Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil servant. Justify their inclusion in the matrix. (UPSC 2021, 10 Marks, )

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Ethical Traits for Evaluating Civil Servant Performance

1. Integrity

 Justification: Integrity is fundamental for civil servants as it ensures honesty, truthfulness, and a commitment to ethical conduct. It prevents corruption, misuse of power, and dishonesty.

 Example: A civil servant who refuses a bribe and reports corruption within their department demonstrates integrity.

2. Impartiality

 Justification: Impartiality ensures that civil servants treat all citizens equally, regardless of personal biases or external pressures. It upholds fairness and justice.

 Example: A civil servant who makes decisions solely based on merit and without favoritism displays impartiality.

3. Accountability

 Justification: Accountability means taking responsibility for one's actions and decisions. It ensures transparency and prevents abuse of power.

 Example: A civil servant who accepts responsibility for a project's failure and takes corrective measures showcases accountability.

4. Professionalism

 Justification: Professionalism involves adhering to high standards of competence, ethics, and conduct. It promotes efficiency and effectiveness in public service.

 Example: A civil servant who continually updates their skills and knowledge to better serve the public demonstrates professionalism.

5. Transparency

 Justification: Transparency ensures that civil servants operate openly, disclosing information to the public when appropriate. It builds trust and prevents corruption.

 Example: A civil servant who provides clear and easily accessible information about government policies and expenditures exhibits transparency.

These ethical traits are essential for evaluating civil servant performance as they collectively contribute to good governance, public trust, and the efficient functioning of government institutions. Civil servants embodying these traits are more likely to serve the public interest effectively and uphold democratic values.