GS-IV · UPSC Mains PYQEthics 2019 10 Marks
What do you understand by the term ‘public servant’? Reflect on the expected role of a public servant.
Microtheme: Foundational values · Asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2019.
Model Answer Approach
- Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to Foundational values.
- Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.
- Body: 2–3 thematic sub-heads with crisp points, examples and counter-arguments. Add a relevant case study or committee/report.
- Conclusion (30–40 words): Forward-looking — recommendations, way forward, or a constitutional/ethical anchor.
Structure Checklist
- ✓ Definition / context in intro
- ✓ Minimum 1 data point or report
- ✓ Multi-dimensional arguments
- ✓ Counter-view / limitations
- ✓ Diagram, flowchart or map (if applicable)
- ✓ Way forward in conclusion
Keywords to Use
understandservantreflectexpected
Related UPSC Mains Questions
From the same microtheme — Foundational values.
- Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil servant. Justify their inclusion in the matrix.📅 2021 · 📌 10
- Identify ten essential values that are needed to be an effective public servant. De- scribe the ways and means to prevent non-ethical behaviour in public servants.📅 2021 · 📌 10
- What are the basic principles of public life? Illustrate any three of these with suitable examples.📅 2019 · 📌 10
- State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance.📅 2018 · 📌 10
- Indicate two more attributes which you consider important for public service. Justify your answer.📅 2013 · 📌 10
