GS-IV · UPSC Mains PYQEthics 2014 10 Marks

What does ‘accountability’ mean in the context of public service? What measures can be adopted to ensure individual and collective accountability of public servants?

Microtheme: Accountability and Ethical Governance · Asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2014.

Model Answer Approach

  1. Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to Accountability and Ethical Governance.
  2. Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.
  3. Body: 2–3 thematic sub-heads with crisp points, examples and counter-arguments. Add a relevant case study or committee/report.
  4. 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

accountabilitycontextservicemeasuresadoptedindividualcollectiveservants
WhatsApp