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11 Mar 2026
GS Paper 4
Theoretical Questions
Q. Examine the relevance of the following in the context of civil service. (8 marks, 125 words)
(a) Non-partisanship
(b) Dedication to public serviceApproach:
- Briefly define each term.
- State their importance in public administration.
- Provide a suitable conclusion.
Answer:
(a) Non-partisanship in Civil Service
Non-partisanship is a fundamental value in civil service, ensuring that public servants remain neutral and unbiased in governance. It requires them to serve the government of the day without political allegiance, ensuring policies are implemented fairly. A non-partisan civil service fosters public trust, prevents favoritism, and upholds constitutional values. In a democracy, bureaucrats play a stabilizing role, ensuring continuity of governance across political transitions. However, challenges like political pressure and lobbying can threaten non-partisanship. Strict adherence to rules, institutional safeguards, and a strong ethical foundation are necessary to maintain impartiality. A politically neutral civil service strengthens democracy, promotes efficiency, and ensures that government programs are implemented in the public interest rather than political gains.
(b) Dedication to Public Service
Dedication to public service is essential for an efficient, accountable, and citizen-centric administration. It entails commitment to the welfare of people, prioritizing public interest over personal gain. A dedicated civil servant exhibits integrity, responsiveness, and perseverance in handling complex governance challenges. This value enhances governance by ensuring timely service delivery, effective policy implementation, and citizen satisfaction. However, dedication can be undermined by bureaucratic inertia, corruption, and political interference. To sustain dedication, a robust ethical framework, professional motivation, and a culture of accountability are crucial. Civil servants committed to public service contribute to nation-building by addressing societal needs, ensuring inclusivity, and fostering long-term sustainable development.