Mains Practice Questions

Case Study

You are the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of a state plagued by a deep-rooted culture of electoral malpractices, including booth capturing, intimidation, and violence. The ongoing general elections for the Lok Sabha have been marred by widespread incidents of booth capturing, casting a dark shadow over the credibility of the electoral process.

On the third day of polling, the situation escalated to unprecedented levels, with reports pouring in from multiple constituencies across the state. Intimidation tactics, such as threatening voters and election officials, were also widely reported. Additionally, instances of violence, including clashes between rival political factions, further escalated tensions.

The widespread incidents of malpractices had eroded public confidence in the electoral system, leading to disillusionment among voters.

As the CEO, you must take swift and decisive action to address this crisis and ensure the sanctity of the democratic process.

Questions:

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this case?

2. Given the gravity of the situation, outline your immediate strategy to address the ongoing booth capturing incidents and restore order in the affected constituencies.

3. Once the immediate crisis is addressed, what long-term structural reforms would you recommend to overhaul the electoral framework in the state?

Case Study

You are a young IAS officer recently posted as the District Collector of Dantewada, a remote and impoverished district in the state of Chhattisgarh. Dantewada has been the epicenter of the violent Naxal insurgency, a protracted conflict between Maoist rebels and security forces that has claimed thousands of lives over the past few decades.

The Naxalites, claiming to fight for the rights of tribal peasants and the oppressed, have established a parallel system of governance in large swathes of Dantewada's forests and villages. They run their own courts, tax civilians, and have targeted government infrastructure and security personnel through deadly ambushes and landmine attacks.

Despite the heavy presence of paramilitary forces, the district administration's writ barely extends beyond the district headquarters. Most development funds allocated for Dantewada have been siphoned off by corrupt officials or remained unutilized due to the precarious security situation.

The situation in Dantewada is highly volatile, with regular incidents of violence disrupting governance and development efforts. As the senior-most civilian authority, you are under pressure to find an effective strategy to resolve this long-standing conflict.

In the above scenario:

1. What are the major ethical dilemmas involved in this issue?

2. What would be your priorities and action plan as the District Collector to restore administration and deliver development in this conflict-affected region?

3. Reflecting on this case study, what policy measures would you recommend for resolving protracted insurgencies through a comprehensive approach combining development, security, and grievance redressal?

Case Study

In the aftermath of a severe natural disaster, a community finds itself in a dire situation, with thousands left homeless and lacking the most basic necessities. Heavy rainfall and infrastructure damage have severely impeded rescue efforts, exacerbating the frustration and desperation of the affected populace. As rescue teams arrive at the scene, they are met with hostility and violence, with some team members being assaulted, and one suffering severe injuries. In the midst of this turmoil, there are pleas from within the team to cease operations out of fear for their safety.

In the above scenario :

A. Examine the ethical dilemma involved in the case.

B. Examine the qualities of a public servant which will be required to manage the situation.

C. Suppose you are heading the rescue operations in that area, what will be your response?

Case Study

You are a District Magistrate (DM) of a rural district known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional practices. The district has a diverse population, including various ethnic communities and tribes, each with its distinct customs and beliefs. The administration has been striving to balance the preservation of these traditions with the need for modernization and development.

Recently, a conflict arose between a government-led development project and the traditional practices of a tribal community. The project aims to construct a road through a forest area inhabited by the tribe, which they consider sacred and essential for their cultural practices. The community vehemently opposes the project, citing that it would not only disrupt their way of life but also harm the environment.

As the DM, you are caught between the mandate of the development project, which promises improved connectivity and economic growth for the region, and the ethical responsibility to protect the cultural heritage and rights of the tribal community. The local administration has received pressure from higher authorities to expedite the project, highlighting its significance for the overall development of the district.

In this scenario, discuss the ethical dilemmas you face as the DM and outline the steps you would take to resolve the conflict while upholding public service values and ethics in public administration.

Case Study

You are posted as the District Magistrate in a rural district of India with a significant population belonging to various caste groups. Despite legal provisions and affirmative action policies, instances of caste discrimination are prevalent in the district. Recently, a group of Dalit students from a government school in a predominantly upper-caste village have approached you, complaining of discrimination and harassment by their upper-caste classmates and teachers.

The students allege that they are often made to sit separately, are not allowed to use the common water source and face verbal abuse from their peers and teachers. They also claim that their grades are intentionally marked lower than those of their upper-caste counterparts.

Upon investigation, you find that the allegations are substantiated, and there is a deep-seated bias against the Dalit students in the school. The school management, dominated by upper-caste members, is reluctant to address the issue, citing "tradition" and "social norms."

As the District Magistrate, how would you approach this situation ethically and effectively to address the caste discrimination in the school? What steps would you take to ensure justice for the Dalit students and promote a more inclusive and equitable environment in the school?

Case Study

You are the Human Resources Manager of a medium-sized company that operates in the service sector. The company employs a diverse workforce, including individuals from different cultural backgrounds and genders. Recently, an employee, Ms. A, who has been with the company for three years, has filed a complaint of sexual harassment against her immediate supervisor, Mr. B.

Ms. A alleges that Mr. B has been making unwanted advances towards her, including inappropriate comments about her appearance and unwelcome physical contact. She states that these incidents have been ongoing for several months and have created a hostile work environment for her.

Upon receiving the complaint, you conducted a preliminary investigation and found some corroborating evidence, such as witness statements and emails. However, Mr. B denies the allegations and claims that his interactions with Ms. A were friendly and professional.

As the HR Manager, you are tasked with handling this sensitive issue in a fair and impartial manner. Your actions will not only affect the individuals involved but also impact the overall work culture and reputation of the company.

In light of the above scenario, discuss the ethical dilemmas you face as the HR Manager and outline the steps you would take to address the complaint of sexual harassment, ensuring transparency, fairness, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Case Studies

Mohan is a young civil servant and has a reputation for his competence, integrity, dedication and relentless pursuit of difficult and onerous jobs. Considering his profile, he was picked up by his bosses to handle a very challenging and sensitive assignment.

He was posted in a tribal-dominated district notorius for illegal sand mining. Excavating sand from the river belt and transporting it through trucks and selling them in black market was rampant. This illegal sand mining mafia was operating with the support of local functionaries and tribal musclemen who in turn were bribing selected poor tribals and had kept the tribal under fear and intimidation.

Mohan being a sharp and energetic officer immediately grasped the ground realities and the modus operandi followed by the mafia through their devious and dubious mechanism. On making inquiries, he gathered that some of their own office employees are hand in glove with them and have developed a close unholy nexous.

Mohan initiated stringent action against them and started conducting raids on their illegal operations of movement of trucks filled with sand. The mafia got rattled as not many officers in the past had taken such strong steps against the mafia. Some of the office employees who were allegedly close to the mafia informed them that the oofice is determined to clean up the mafia's illegal sand mining operations in that district and may cause them irreparable damage. The mafia turned hostile and launched a counter-offensive.

The tribal musclemen and mafia started threatening him with dire consequences. His family (wife, and old mother) were stalked and were under virtual surveillance and thus causing mental torture, agony and stress to all of them. The matter assumed serious proportions when a muscle man come to his office and threatened him to stop raids, etc., otherwise, his fate will not be different from some of his predecessores (ten years back one officer was killed by the mafia)

(a) Identify the differnt options availabe to Mohan in attending to this situation.

(b) Critically evaluate each of the options by you.

(c) Among the options provided, which do you believe would be the most suitable?

Case Studies

You are posted as the District Magistrate in a region where deforestation has become a pressing issue. The local communities rely heavily on forest resources for their livelihoods, including fuelwood collection, timber for construction, and non-timber forest products for sustenance. However, rampant deforestation is leading to ecological imbalances and adversely affecting the communities. The increasing deforestation is driven by various factors, including illegal logging, encroachment for agricultural purposes, and infrastructure development. This has resulted in the loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and disrupted water cycles, leading to adverse effects on agriculture and local ecosystems.

As the District Magistrate, you are tasked with addressing these problems and finding sustainable solutions that balance the needs of the communities with environmental conservation.

In light of this scenario, analyze the problems and issues of deforestation and propose a comprehensive plan of action that addresses the concerns of both the communities and the environment.

Case Studies

A Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA), known for his principled stand on various issues and unwavering commitment to his political party, decides to defect to another party. He justifies his decision by citing ideological differences and the need to better serve his constituents. However, his decision is widely criticized as opportunistic and a betrayal of the trust placed in him by his constituents and party members. The Chief Minister, who is from the ruling party, alleges that the defections were orchestrated through unethical means, including promises of positions and financial incentives.

As an aspiring civil servant, analyze the ethical implications of political defections. Discuss the challenges faced by lawmakers in balancing their ideological beliefs, party loyalty, and responsibilities towards constituents. Suggest measures to address the issue of political defections while upholding democratic values and integrity in governance.

Case Studies

Lakhimpura, a remote district inhabited by a tribal population, is marked by extreme backwardness and abject poverty. Agriculture is the mainstay of the local population, though it is primarily subsistence due to the very small landholdings. There is insignificant industrial or mining activity. Even the targeted welfare programs have inadequately benefited the tribal population. In this restrictive scenario, the youth has begun to migrate to other states to supplement the family income. Plight of minor girls is that their parents are persuaded by labor contractors to send them to work in the Bt Cotton farms of a nearby state. The soft fingers of the minor girls are well suited for plucking the cotton. The inadequate living and working conditions in these farms have caused serious health issues for the minor girls. NGOs in the districts of domicile and the cotton farms appear to be compromised and have not effectively espoused the twin issues of child labour and development of the area.

You are appointed as the District Collector of Lakhimpura. Identify the ethical issues involved. Which specific steps will you initiate to ameliorate the conditions of minor girls of your district and to improve the overall economic scenario in the district?

Case Studies

As the municipal commissioner of a significant city, renowned for your integrity and steadfast adherence to the law, you find yourself confronted with a serious situation following a tragic incident at a construction site. A multipurpose mall project, employing numerous daily wage laborers, experienced a devastating roof collapse during a monsoon night, resulting in the loss of lives of four workers, including two minors, and leaving many others critically injured. This catastrophic event has stirred public outcry, prompting the government to initiate an inquiry.

Upon preliminary investigation, a troubling pattern of irregularities has surfaced. It has been revealed that substandard materials were utilized in the construction, and the building deviated from the approved plans by including an unauthorized additional basement. Despite periodic inspections by municipal building inspectors, these discrepancies went undetected. Furthermore, the construction encroached upon designated green belt and slip road areas outlined in the city's Zonal Master Plan.

Complicating matters, your predecessor, a senior colleague, and an acquaintance approved the mall's construction, raising questions about potential collusion between municipal officials and the builders. Also, pressure from within the municipal corporation to temper the inquiry has emerged, with colleagues urging you to proceed cautiously. Additionally, the builder, who wields considerable wealth and influence, is a close relative of a powerful state cabinet minister. He has attempted to influence the investigation in his favor by offering financial incentives and implying potential legal repercussions under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act if matters are not resolved to his advantage swiftly.

(a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case.

(b) What are the options available to you in this situation?

(c) Explain your selected course of action.

Case Studies

As the officer entrusted with overseeing environmental compliance in the region, you have encountered a complex challenge stemming from numerous small and medium industries holding environmental clearance certificates while continuing to pollute air, water, and soil, resulting in adverse health effects on the local population.

Upon discovering the widespread violations, you took decisive action by issuing notices to all industrial units to apply for fresh environmental clearance. However, your efforts were met with resistance from some industrial stakeholders, vested interest groups, and local politicians. Additionally, there was apprehension among workers about potential job loss and economic insecurity.

Despite pleas from industry owners highlighting potential financial losses and product shortages, and appeals from labor unions to avoid closure, you remained steadfast in your commitment to environmental protection. This stance, however, exposed you to threats from unidentified sources.

In the face of adversity, you found support from colleagues advocating for uncompromising environmental compliance and local NGOs calling for the immediate closure of polluting units.

(a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

(b) Based on the above case study, what are the options available to you?

(c) What type of mechanism would you suggest to ensure environmental compliance?

Case Studies

You are serving as the Inspector of Traffic Police in a bustling city. One day, a convoy of a union minister is scheduled to pass through the heart of the city, resulting in a significant disruption to the regular traffic flow. The convoy's movement causes a massive traffic jam, leading to chaos on the streets. Amidst this situation, an ambulance carrying a critically ill heart patient is stuck in traffic.

The patient's condition is deteriorating rapidly, and any delay in reaching the hospital could prove life-threatening. As the Inspector of Traffic Police, you find yourself caught in a dilemma, torn between the responsibility to ensure the smooth movement of VIP convoys and the urgent need to facilitate the timely passage of the ambulance for emergency medical services.

(a) What option does the inspector (traffic police) have in these circumstances?

(b) How does the Inspector (Traffic Police) manage the delicate equilibrium between accommodating VIP convoys and prioritizing emergency response services?

Case Studies

As District Magistrate, you are presented with two competing proposals for a large development project in your district: A modern industrial complex promising significant economic growth and employment, and a wildlife sanctuary aimed at protecting endangered species and preserving ecological balance. Both projects will require land acquisition and displacement of local communities. Additionally, the industrial complex raises concerns about potential environmental pollution.

A. Discuss the ethical dilemmas involved in choosing between these two seemingly incompatible projects.

B. Outline a framework for making an ethically sound decision, considering the principles of public good, sustainability, justice, and transparency.

Case Studies

A famous Indian car company brought an international model to the local market, promising customers the same quality. However, a surprise check found the cars didn't match the approved specs, and a later investigation showed intentional misconduct. The company wasn't just selling subpar cars in India; they were also using rejected export models for local sales. This unethical practice was uncovered, damaging the company's reputation and causing financial losses. Now, the company must address these issues to regain trust and restore its standing in the automotive industry.

The unethical actions had widespread repercussions, greatly damaging the company's image and resulting in substantial financial setbacks both domestically and globally. The betrayal of trust with consumers and regulators created a ripple effect, affecting the company's position in the fiercely competitive automotive industry. It became crucial for the company to implement corrective measures and undertake damage control to rebuild trust and reclaim its previously robust market position.

A. What ethical considerations should guide the company's decision-making process in rectifying these actions and rebuilding trust with consumers and regulators?

B. How can the company foster a culture of ethical awareness and accountability among its stakeholders?

Case Studies

Q. You are a government officer under the central government. In the pursuit of improved public services, the central government is implementing a digital transformation initiative, involving the collection and analysis of citizens' data. You are vested with the responsibility of implementing the digital transformative initiative of the central government. During the implementation process, concerns were raised about the right to privacy and the potential misuse of personal data by private tech firms. While the initiative promises socio-economic development, questions about fair benefits distribution and societal inequalities have emerged due to a lack of clear regulations.

A. What are the ethical challenges that you face as an officer in charge of the digital transformation initiative?

B. How would you balance the competing interests of the government, the citizens, and the private tech firms in this situation?

Case Studies

Ravish, a young and dedicated civil servant known for his competence and integrity, was assigned to a district plagued by a low literacy ratio and controlled by an education mafia involved in extorting money from students for facilitating cheating in exams. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Ravish swiftly grasped the intricate workings of the mafia, discovering their clandestine methods and the complicity of local authorities and strongmen.

Upon investigation, Ravish unearthed the involvement of some of his office employees in this illicit nexus. Taking decisive action, he initiated stringent measures against them and conducted raids to dismantle the illegal operations. Unaccustomed to facing such resistance, the mafia became alarmed, with some office employees tipping them off about Ravish's determination to eradicate bribery and cheating promotion in the district.

In response, the mafia adopted a hostile stance and launched a counter-offensive. They resorted to threatening Ravish with dire consequences, and his family, including his wife and elderly mother, became targets of stalking and virtual surveillance, causing immense mental distress. The situation escalated when a thug visited Ravish's office, warning him to cease the raids or face a fate similar to some of his predecessors, one of whom had been killed by the mafia a decade earlier.

A. Considering the challenges faced by Ravish in dealing with the education mafia, what are the various options available to him to address the situation effectively?

B. Provide a critical assessment of each of the options outlined for Ravish in addressing the challenges posed by the education mafia in the district.

Case Studies

You are posted as the District Magistrate (DM) in a remote district in India. This district is known for its rich tribal culture and pristine natural beauty. However, it also faces challenges like poverty, limited healthcare and education facilities, and deforestation due to illegal logging.

A multinational pharmaceutical company (MNC) approaches you with a proposal to set up a research facility in the district. The MNC claims that the research facility will bring economic development, employment opportunities, and better healthcare services to the district. The MNC also offers you a hefty amount of money as a personal incentive to approve the proposal.

However, you are aware that the research facility will have negative impacts on the environment, the tribal culture, and the rights of the local people. The MNC has a history of unethical practices such as exploiting natural resources, violating human rights, and conducting illegal experiments on animals and humans. You also suspect that the MNC has some hidden agenda behind the research facility.

As the DM, you have to decide whether to accept or reject the proposal.

A. What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this case? How will you resolve them?

B. What are the possible consequences of your decision for yourself, the district, and the MNC? Justify your answer with suitable arguments and examples. (250 words)

Case Studies

An IAS officer, Mr. Sharma, is working in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare as a Joint Secretary. He is responsible for drafting a policy on surrogacy, which aims to regulate the practice of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and protect the rights and interests of the surrogate mothers, the intended parents, and the children born through surrogacy.

Mr. Sharma is married to Mrs. Sharma, who is a successful lawyer and a partner in a reputed law firm. They have been trying to have a child for the past 10 years, but have failed due to medical reasons. They have also explored the option of adoption, but have faced many hurdles and delays in the process.

One day, Mrs. Sharma informs Mr. Sharma that she has found a surrogate mother through an online platform, who is willing to carry their child for a reasonable amount of money. She also tells him that she has consulted her law firm and they have assured her that they can handle the legal formalities and paperwork for the surrogacy arrangement. She urges Mr. Sharma to agree to this option, as it is their last chance to have a biological child of their own. However, the current law prohibits commercial surrogacy and allows only altruistic surrogacy for eligible couples.

1. What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

2. What are the possible options available to Mr. Sharma?

3. What should Mr. Sharma do in this situation? Justify your answer with suitable arguments. (250 words)

Case Studies

You hold a responsible position in a ministry in the government, One day in the morning you received a call from the school of your 11-year-old son that you are required to come and meet the Principal. You proceed to the school and find your son in the Principal's office. The Principal informs you that your son had been found wandering aimlessly in the grounds during the time classes were in progress. The class teacher further informs you that your son has lately become a loner and did not respond to questions in the class, he had also been unable to perform well in the football trials held recently. You bring your son back from the school and in the evening, you along with your wife try to find out the reasons for your son's changed behaviour. After repeated cajoling, your son shares that some children had been making fun of him in the class as well as in the WhatsApp group of the students by calling him stunted, duh and a frog. He tells you the names of a few children who are the main culprits but pleads with you to let the matter rest. After a few days, during a sporting event, where you and your wife have gone to watch your son play, one of your colleague's son shows you a video in which students have caricatured your son. Further, he also points out to the perpetrators who were sitting in the stands. You purposefully walk past them with your son and go home. Next day, you find on social media, a video denigrating you, your son and even your wife, stating that you engaged in physical bullying of children on the sports field. The video became viral on social media. Your friends and colleagues began calling you to find out the details. One of your juniors advised you to make a counter video giving the background and explaining that nothing had happened on the field. You, in turn posted a video which you have captured during the sporting event, identifying the likely perpetrators who were responsible for your son's predicament. You have also narrated what has actually happened in the field and made attempts to bring out the adverse effects of the misuse of social media.

(a) Based on the above case study, discuss the ethical issues involved in the use of social media.

(b) Discuss the pros and cons of using social media by you to put across the facts to counter the fake propaganda against your family. (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Case Studies

You have just been appointed as Additional Director General of Central Public Works Department. The Chlef Architect of your division, who is to retire in six months, is passionately working on a very important project, the successful completion of which would earn him a lasting reputation for the rest of his life. A new lady architect. Seema, trained at Manchester School of Architecture, UK joined as Senior Architect in your division. During the briefing about the project, Seema made some suggestions which would not only add value to the project, but would also reduce completion time. This has made the Chief Architect insecure and he is constantly worried that all the credit will go to her. Subsequently, he adopted a passive and aggressive behaviour towards her and has become disrespectful to her. Seema felt it embarrassing as the Chief Architect left no chance of humiliating her. He would very often correct her in front of other colleagues and raise his voice while speaking to her. This continuous harassment has resulted in her losing confidence and self- esteem. She felt perpetually tensed, anxious and stressed. She appeared to be in awe of him since he has had a long tenure in the office and has vast experience in the area of her work. You are aware of her outstanding academic credentials and career record in her previous organisations. However, you fear that this harassment may result in compromising her much needed contribution in this important project and may adversely impact her emotional well-being. You have also come to know from her peers that aho is contemplating tendering her resignation.

A. What are the ethical issues involved in the above case?

B. What are the options available to you in order to complete the project as well as to retain Seema in the organization?

C. What would be your response to Seema's predicament? What measures would you institute to prevent such occurrences from happening in your organization? (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Case Studies

Vinod is an honest and sincere IAS officer. Recently, he has taken over as Managing Director of the State Road Transport Corporation, his sixth transfer in the past three years. His peers acknowledge his vast knowledge, affability and uprightness. The Chairman of the State Road Transport Corporation is a powerful politician and is very close to the Chief Minister. Vinod comes to know about many alleged irregularities of the Corporation and the highhandedness of the Chairman in financial matters. A Board Member of the Corporation belonging to the Opposition Party meets Vinod and hands over a few documents along with a video recording in which the Chairman appears to be demanding bribes for placing a huge order for the supply of QMR tyres. Vinod recollects the Chairman expediting clearing of pending bills of QMR tyres. Vinod confronts the Board Member as to why he is shying away from exposing the Chairman with the so-called solid proof he has with him. The member informs him that the Chairman refuses to yield to his threats. He adds that Vinod may earn recognition and public support if he himself exposes the Chairman. Further, he tells Vinod that once his party comes to power. Vinod's professional growth would be assured. Vinod is aware that he may be penalized if he exposes the Chairman and may further be transferred to a distant place. He knows that the Opposition Party stands a better chance of coming to power in the forthcoming elections. However, he also realizes that the Board Member is trying to use him for his own political gains.

(a) As a conscientious civil servant, evaluate the options available to Vinod.

(b) In the light of the above case, comment upon the ethical issues that may arise due to the politicization of bureaucracy. (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

At 9 pm on Saturday evening, Rashika, a Joint Secretary, was still engrossed in her work in her office. Her husband, Vikram, is an executive in an MNC and frequently out of town in connection with his work. Their two children aged 5 and 3 are looked after by their domestic helper. At 9.30 pm her superior, Mr. Suresh calls her and asks her to prepare a detailed note on an important matter to be discussed in a meeting in the Ministry. She realises that she will have to work on Sunday to finish the additional task given by her superior. She reflects on how she had looked forward to this posting and had worked long hours for months to achieve it. She had kept the welfare of people uppermost in discharging her duties. She feels that she has not done enogh justice to her family and she has not fulfilled her duties in discharging essential social obligations. Even as recently as last month she had to leave her sick child in the nanny's care as she had to work in the office. Now she feels that she must draw a line, beyond which her personal life should take precedence over her professional responsibilities- She thinks that there should be reasonable limits to the work ethics such as punctuality, hard work. dedication to duty and selfless service.

A. Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case.
B. Briefly describe at least four laws that have been enacted by the Government with respect to providing a healthy, safe and equitable working environment for women.
C. Imagine you are in a similar situation. What suggestions would you make to mitigate such working conditions? (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Case Studies

A Iandslide occurred in the middle of the night on 20th July, 2023 in a remote mountain hamlet, approximately 60 kilometres from Uttarkashi. The landslide was caused by torrential rains and has resulted in large-scale destruction of property and life. You, as District Magistrate of that area, have rushed to the spot with a team of doctors, NGOs, media and police along with numerous support staff to oversee the rescue operations. A man came running to you with a request for urgent medical help for his pregnant wife who is in labour and is losing blood. You directed your medical team to examine his wife. They return and convey to you that this woman needs blood transfusion immediately. Upon enquiry, you come to know that a few blood collection bags and blood group test kits are available in the ambulance accompanying your team. Few people of your team have already volunteered to donate blood. Being a physician who has graduated from AIIMS, you know that blood for transfusion needs to be procured only through a recognized blood bank. Your team members are divided on this issue; some favour transfusion, while Home others oppose it. The doctors in the team are ready to facilitate the delivery provided they are not penalized for transfusion. Now you are in a dilemma. Your professional training emphasizes on prioritising service to humanity and saving lives of individuals.

1. What are the ethical issues involved in this case ?
2. Evaluate the options available to you, being District Magistrate of the area. (Answer in 250 words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Case Studies

You are working as an exeutive in a nationalized bank for several years. One day one of your close colleagues tells you that her father is suffering from heart disease and needs surgery immediately to survive. She also tells you that she has no insurance and the operation will cost about Rs. 10 lakh. You are also aware of the fact that her husband is no more and that she is from a lower middle class family. You are empathetic about her situation. However, apart from expressing your sympathy, you do not have the resources to fund her.

A few weeks later, you ask her about the well-being of her father and she informs you about his successful surgery and that he is recovering. She then confides in you that the bank manager was kind enough to facilitate the release of 10 lakh from a dormant account of someone to pay for the operation with a promise that it should be confidential and be repaid at the earliest. She has already started paying it back and will continue to do so until it is all returned.

A. What are the ethical issues involved?

B. Evaluate the behavior of the bank manager from an ethical point of view.

C. How would you react to the situation?

Case Studies

You are a senior police officer in charge of the Mumbai police. You have recently learned that one of your subordinates has won Rs. 2 crore on a fantasy sports app, by assembling a virtual cricket team. He has also given media interviews in uniform, without seeking permission from you, and has become a celebrity overnight. However, you also know that playing such games is considered unethical and socially unacceptable by many people, and that there is an ongoing debate about the legality and morality of such apps. You are worried that his actions might tarnish the image and reputation of the police force, and also set a bad example for other officers and common people.

(a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

(b) What are the possible courses of action that you can take as his superior officer?

(c) What are the merits and demerits of each course of action?

(d) Which course of action would you choose and why?

Case Studies

You are a district collector in a drought-prone area. You have been entrusted with the responsibility of implementing the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) in your district. The scheme aims to provide 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. However, you find that there is a large-scale corruption and leakage of funds in the implementation of the scheme. Some of the common malpractices are:

1. Fake job cards and muster rolls

2. Inflated wage payments and material costs

3. Substandard work quality and measurement

4. Collusion between local officials, contractors and politicians

You have to take appropriate steps to curb the corruption and ensure the effective implementation of the scheme.

A. What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

B. What are the measures that you can take to prevent and punish the corrupt practices?

C. How can you use technology and innovation to improve the transparency and accountability of the scheme?

Case Studies

There is a lady who wants to terminate her 26-week pregnancy on the grounds of depression and financial hardship. She claims that she was unaware of her pregnancy until recently and that she cannot afford to raise another child. She also says that she suffers from severe mental stress and anxiety due to her situation. The doctors at AIIMS have examined her and confirmed that the fetus is alive and has a heartbeat, and they have refused to perform an abortion as it would amount to ending a life.

a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

b) What are the legal and ethical concerns regarding abortion in India?

Case Study

Mr. Verma, a distinguished IAS officer, has been known for his integrity and commitment to public service. He has earned a reputation for effectively implementing various development projects and policies. Over the years, he has developed a deep understanding of the challenges the state faces, including corruption, inadequate healthcare, and educational facilities, and unemployment issues. Motivated by his strong sense of duty and a desire to bring about meaningful change, Mr. Verma decides to contest elections to address these issues at a political level.

However, the state government refuses to accept his resignation, arguing that his expertise and experience are critical for the ongoing development projects. They assert that allowing him to contest elections would disrupt the state's administrative stability.

A. What are the Ethical Issues involved in the Case?

B. What are the guidelines for Civil Servants when it comes to running in elections?

Case Studies

You are the District Collector of a remote and backward district. You have been working hard to improve the living conditions of the people by implementing various schemes and projects. One of the projects that you have initiated is the construction of a Local Area Network (LAN) that will connect all the government offices, schools, hospitals, and panchayats in the district. This will enable better communication, coordination, and delivery of public services. You have also planned to provide free internet access to the villagers through this network.

However, you face several challenges and ethical dilemmas in executing this project. Some of them are:

The local MLA is opposed to your project as he fears that it will reduce his influence and control over the people. He has been pressuring you to stop the project or divert the funds for some other scheme targeting his vote bank.

The contractors who have been awarded the tender for laying the cables and installing the equipment are known to be corrupt and inefficient. They have been delaying the work and demanding more money. They have also been using substandard materials and compromising on the quality and safety of the network.

Some of the villagers are suspicious and resistant to your project as they think that it is a ploy to spy on them and collect their personal data. They have been spreading rumors and misinformation about the harmful effects of the network on their health and culture. They have also been vandalizing and sabotaging the network infrastructure.

Some of the government officials and staff are reluctant and indifferent to your project as they lack the skills and motivation to use the network. They have been avoiding training sessions and workshops that you have organized to familiarize them with the network. They have also been misusing and abusing the network for their personal and illegal purposes.

As the District Collector, how will you deal with these challenges and dilemmas? What values and principles will guide your actions and decisions? Discuss. (250 words)