Why courage is utmost value for civil servants in public adminstration ? Illustrate with examples ?

 Courage is an utmost value for civil servants in public administration because it empowers them to uphold their ethical and professional obligations, make difficult decisions in the face of adversity, and stand up for what is right, even in challenging circumstances. Here are a few reasons why courage is crucial for civil servants, along with examples:

1. Upholding the Public Interest: Civil servants have a responsibility to prioritize the public interest above personal or political considerations. Courage enables them to act in the best interest of the public, even when faced with opposition or pressure to do otherwise. For example, a civil servant who exposes corruption within their department, risking their own career, demonstrates courage in upholding the public interest.

2. Ethical Decision-Making: Civil servants often encounter ethical dilemmas that require difficult choices. Courage allows them to make decisions guided by their ethical principles, even if those decisions are unpopular or challenge the status quo. An example would be a civil servant who refuses to implement a policy that violates human rights, even if it means facing backlash from superiors or political leaders.

3. Speaking Truth to Power: Courage empowers civil servants to speak truthfully and assertively, providing honest feedback and advice to their superiors and policymakers. By expressing their professional opinions, civil servants can contribute valuable insights and challenge flawed or misguided decisions. For instance, a civil servant who raises concerns about the potential negative impacts of a policy and offers alternative solutions demonstrates courage in speaking truth to power.

4. Fostering Accountability: Civil servants play a crucial role in holding themselves and their colleagues accountable for their actions. Courage enables them to report misconduct or wrongdoing, even within their own ranks, and take appropriate action to ensure accountability. An example would be a civil servant who reports instances of bribery or unethical behavior within their department, despite potential risks to their personal and professional well-being.

5. Innovating and Driving Change: Courageous civil servants are willing to challenge the status quo, think creatively, and drive meaningful change within their organizations and systems. They are not afraid to question outdated practices or suggest innovative approaches that can improve service delivery and governance. For instance, a civil servant who champions the adoption of digital technologies to streamline administrative processes, despite resistance from traditionalists, demonstrates courage in driving positive change.

Examples of courageous civil servants in India include:

AnilSwarup IAS officer  is not afraid to speak the truth and narrate incidents as they occurred during his service tenure  He also shows tremendous courage in standing up for an honest IAS officer like HC Gupta who had been indicted by CBI and does not mince his words in evaluating the role of the CAG in the alleged 2G scam.

T.N. Seshan: As the Chief Election Commissioner of India from 1990 to 1996, T.N. Seshan displayed immense courage by taking bold steps to ensure free and fair elections. He introduced electoral reforms, cracked down on electoral malpractices, and asserted the independence of the Election Commission.

Kiran Bedi: Kiran Bedi, a former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, is known for her courage and integrity. As the Inspector General of Prisons in Delhi, she implemented significant reforms to improve prison conditions and introduced rehabilitation programs for inmates.

Durga Shakti Nagpal: Durga Shakti Nagpal, an IAS officer, exhibited courage when she took a stand against illegal sand mining in Uttar Pradesh. Despite facing threats and opposition, she persisted in her efforts to enforce the law, demonstrating her commitment to the public interest.

Sanjiv Chaturvedi: Sanjiv Chaturvedi, an Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, showcased courage by exposing corruption and illegal practices in the forestry sector. His whistleblowing efforts led to investigations and action against influential individuals involved in corrupt practices.

By exhibiting courage, civil servants can make a significant impact in promoting ethical conduct, accountability, and effective governance. They become agents of positive change, working towards the betterment of society and upholding the principles and values of public administration.