Topic : Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
6. Discuss how lateral entries in administration can help overcome existing inefficiencies and what are its future prospects? (250 words)
Reference: 2nd ARC report / Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude by Lexicon Publications
Why the question:
The question is premised on the idea of lateral entry in civil services of the country.
Key Demand of the question:
The question is straightforward; discuss how lateral entries in administration can help overcome existing inefficiencies and what its future prospects are.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Present a brief introduction of lateral entry.
Body:
What is lateral entry?
It is the appointment of private sector professionals and academicians in the government organisation bypassing the traditional route.
Traditionally to get into the posts of Deputy Secretary, Director and Joint Secretary in Government organisations, the candidate has to belong to Indian Civil Services which is filled by personals from – Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service and Indian Revenue Service.
Discuss the fatigue and inefficiency in the present IAS dominated administrative structure.
Discus how lateral entry will help improving the administration.
Bring out both pros and cons.
Conclusion:
Suggest some measure for further reforms in Indian Administration; any new system will take time to evolve. So one can only hope that those at the top see this through till it becomes efficient and transparent and ensure a way to keep the public informed about it objectively.
