Topic: Role of civil services in a democracy.
4. One of the most troublesome governance issues is that of frequent transfers of civil servants. Do you think a fixed tenure for civil servants is the way forward to ensure continuity in administration leading to good governance? (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Insights on India ,Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the issue of frequent transfers of civil servants and if fixed tenure can lead to good governance.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by giving context.
Body:
First, write about the drawbacks and impact associated with the frequent transfer of civil servants.
Next, write about the advantages of having a fixed tenure of the civil servants in a particular posting – continuity, impartial decision making, insulation from pressure, increased efficiency etc.
Next, write about the disadvantages of having a fixed tenure of the civil servants – complacency, shrinking accountability etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by starting your opinion on the above issue and way forward to achieve continuity.
