6 January 2025 : Daily Answer Writing

Q1) The politicization of bureaucracy leads to the weakening of public institutions and inefficiency in governance. Suggest measures to ensure meritocracy and impartiality in civil services in India. (150 Words/10 Marks)

Answer:

The politicization of bureaucracy refers to the process where bureaucratic appointments, promotions, transfers, and other administrative decisions are influenced by political considerations rather than being based on merit, qualifications, and performance.

Implications of Politicization of Bureaucracy:

1. Erosion of Meritocracy and rise of ‘Committed Bureaucracy’: (a) appointments based on considerations other than merit, such as loyalty, caste, etc. leads to competence taking a back seat + inefficiency; (b) bureaucrats leaning towards political party in power are given plum posting;

2. Loss in institutional integrity: Undermines trust in the organization’s reputation and objectivity which is dangerous of India’s democracy [e.g., Election Commission has often been accused of favoring the political party in power]

3. Socialization of Corruption: close relationship between bureaucrats and politicians frequently results in collusive corruption [politician-bureaucracy nexus], which hinders the nation’s long-term growth.

4. Policy Bias: bureaucrats being directed to implement or prioritize policies that benefit the ruling party’s electoral prospects rather than addressing public needs objectively.

5. Demoralization of Civil Servants: (a) often transfers and punishment postings are used as tools to castigate officers who refuse to toe the line; (c) efforts of competent and dedicated civil servants are ignored;

 

Measures to Ensure Meritocracy and Impartiality:

1. Reducing arbitrariness and political interference: (a) robust performance appraisal system that evaluates civil servants based on clearly defined metrics [e.g. Performance Management System]; (b) TSR Subramanyam committee recommended formation of the Civil Services Board to regulate transfers and postings; (b) fixed tenures for key positions to ensure stability and reduce political influence; (c) increase objectivity and professionalism to bureaucrat–politician relationship [Second ARC suggested Output-Outcome framework].

2. Recruitment and Training: (a) psychometric tests at recruitment stage to assess the candidates’ suitability for public service roles; (b) continuous training and capacity-building programs; (c) Second ARC recommended – (i) review after 14 years of service; (ii) National Institute of Public Administration be established.

3. Accountability: (a) strengthen institutions like Lokpal and Lokayuktas to investigate and act upon complaints against civil servants; (b) effective grievance redressal mechanisms that allow citizens to report inefficiencies and misconduct; implementation of Social Audit. 4. Institutional: (a) enforce laws that protect civil servants from arbitrary political interference; (b) greater autonomy to key institutions like the UPSC, CAG, ECI and CVC.

 

For more such UPSC related Mains Answer Writing, Check Out 4 Januray 2025 : Daily Answer Writing