UP PCS Mains-2025

Approach: Begin by outlining the evolution of India’s civil services. Highlight the multiple roles played by civil services. Also discuss reform efforts. Conclude by emphasizing the need for reforms.

Introduction

Originally tasked with maintaining law and order under British rule, India’s civil services now play a broader role. Acting as the ‘steel frame’ of administration, they are seen as agents of social change and drivers of national development.

Body

The multiple roles played by civil services in India are:

• Socio-economic transformation: Civil servants promote welfare state goals by managing resources, setting development targets, and implementing modernization programs.
• Realizing constitutional objectives: A strong civil service is essential for maintaining law and order and ensuring citizens enjoy rights and opportunities guaranteed by the Constitution.
• National integration: India’s centralized civil services unify the country, with officers expected to prioritize national interests over local identities.
• Cooperative federalism: Civil services foster collaboration between the Centre and states on common developmental goals.

The civil service in developing countries faces challenges due to rising public expectations and limited state capacity. To meet these demands, it must become less technocratic, more connected to the people, and rooted in their needs. This will build public trust and make the service more effective.

Government efforts at reforming Civil Services:

• Inviting experts like Paul Appleby to suggest reforms and assess the performance.
• Setting up Committees and Commission on Administrative Reforms-
• First Administrative Reforms Commission Reports (1967-70).
• Surendra Nath Committee (2003).
• PC Hota Committee on Civil Service Reforms (2004).
• Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2005 onwards).
• Baswan Committee on Civil Service Reforms (2016).
• Introduction of lateral entry at Joint Secretary in various departments.

Hence, over the years several attempts have been made to bring in further reforms in Civil Services, but the perception of civil service is still dominated by rent-seeking attitude, opacity in functioning, labyrinthine procedures, red-tapism and lack of accountability.

Conclusion

Reforms such as merit-based promotions, domain-specific training, reducing political interference, adopting a citizen-centric approach, decentralizing authority, strengthening accountability mechanisms, and regular ethical training can enhance the effectiveness of civil services. These changes will improve governance, promote efficiency, and increase public trust in India’s administrative system.