Topic: Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions;
7. The bureaucracy should not just aim to be ethical and efficient but also to create an environment that’s good for body and mind for its workers. Elaborate. (150 words)
Reference: Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude by Lexicon Publications.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4.
Key Demand of the question:
To explain how bureaucracy, apart from being ethical and efficient must strive create a positive and healthy environment for its workers.
Directive:
Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context how the work pressure and sedentary lifestyle of bureaucracy is adversely affecting the physical health of the civil servants.
Body:
Bring out the causes for the same. The internal pressure from higher ups, the external pressures from politicians, activists etc, cumbersome work, lack of vacations, lack of physical activity and high expectations to deliver on time etc.
Write about the impact of the above. Deteriorating physical health with obesity, blood pressure and diabetes, worsening mental health with anxiety and depression, negative work life balance, affected familial relationship etc.
Suggest measures to improve the same. Flexible deadlines, compulsory vacations, promoting yoga and meditation on a daily basis, concessions for gym, insulating civil servants from undue political pressure, regular health checkups etc.
Conclusion:
Summarize that a positive atmosphere at work will not only reduce stress but improve the efficiency of the workers.
