ethics case study upsc

[Ethics] Sample Questions, Case studies for UPSC General studies paper 4 based on Donald Menzel’s book

Essay-ish / abstract questions, disobeying an informal order, returning unspent money, misleading for good purpose, private matter of public employee, political neutrality, political neutrality part.2, salary hike vs team spirit, holding charity auctions in the office, spouse in the same office, private endorsement by public official, man of word or man of money, courage with a price tag.

So far in the [Ethics] mock-question series

• UPSC’s sample paper for GS4
• Samples questions based on ethics courses of San Diego and Texas University

Now this this articles contains case-studies/questions are based on Donald C. Menzel’s book Ethics Moments in Government:Cases and Controversies .

• For the Essay-ish questions I’ve merely lifted statements from the book. Because UPSC seems to be doing similar thing for Public Administration (lift sentences from some book and ask the candidate to ‘comment’ on it).
• for the case-studies questions, I’ve given Indian flavor to those American cases and included a few answer key points but by no means they’re sacred/official/final/marksworthy- they’re only meant to serve as lighthouse for the utterly confused.

Answer following questions 12 marks/120 words each:

• What do you understand by ethics audit? How is it different from financial audit?
• Are ethics practices and behaviors in the business world different than those found in public service? If so, why?
• Describe an ethical issue you have had to address in your school or college life and the way you handled it. If confronted with the same issue today, would you handle it in the same way?
• Are ethical standards in business organizations higher or lower than those in public service organizations?
• Is there more unethical behavior in government than in business?
• Do you believe the ethical performance of an employee can be evaluated fairly and accurately? Yes/No/Why?
• Is a professional code of ethics that is not enforceable a satisfactory code? Yes/No/Why?
• How does corrupt behavior resemble or differ from unethical behavior?
• Should we hold appointed officials, such as collectors and tehsildaars, to a higher standard of behavior than elected officials such as municipal councilors? Yes/No/Why?
• Gandhi always advocated the purity of means- with respect to that, do you think it is unethical for a military officer to mislead the enemy? Yes/No/Why?

Comment on following statements (12 marks/120 words each)

• Ethics are less a goal than a pathway, less a destination than a trip, less an inoculation than a process.
• Righteous disobedience is better than Moral muteness.
• Exemplary leadership is critical to encouraging ethical behavior in government organizations.
• Openness and transparency are critical safeguards that keep our democracy alive and well.
• Ethical codes are merely veneers. Shiny on the outside but hollow on the inside.
• Living up to the public trust is much more than just an act of compliance.
• Ethics is the cornerstone of effective, efficient, democratic governance.
• Ethics may be only instrumental, it may be only a means to an end, but it is a necessary means to an end.
• The relationships between ethics, service, and trust are mutually reinforcing.
• Ignorance is not an excuse for misconduct.
• Those who commit misconduct out of ignorance should be treated less harshly.
• If men were angels, no government would be necessary
• Humans roam the earth, not the heavens, so ethics are indispensable.
• Honesty and truthfulness have to be practiced and balanced with delicate diplomacy on some occasions.
• List the reforms necessary to encourage ethical behavior and prevent misconduct in public organizations of India.

Ethics Case Studies / Role playing Questions

DevAnand is working as a clerk in Collector’s office. Due to staff shortage, Dev also performs the task of raising flag over the office building every morning and taking it down every evening, although it is not part of his official job description.

One day a criminal turned politician Madan Puri dies. Years ago, Devanand’s best friend was murdered during a riot allegedly orchestrated by Madan Puri.

Nonetheless, State secretariat passes an order to all District collectors, to keep National flag at “half-mast” over their offices, to mourn the death of the Mr.Madan Puri.

DevAnand sees this news on TV, gets angry with such mockery of our national flag. He decides not to goto office next morning and keeps the door key of rooftop with himself. He is confident, “ no formal punishment can be given to me, because this was not part of my official duty. At most Collector sahib will reprimand me informally but I don’t care because Madan Puri killed my best friend. ”

Do you think DevAnand has made the right decision? Yes/No/Why?

Answer keypoints

DevAnand made a wrong decision because:

• It prevents other staff members from carrying out the ‘official’ order from StateHQ.
• It puts his boss in an embarrassing position in front of the StateHQ.
• If Dev’s conscience doesn’t permit him carrying out a task, he should inform his boss. But running away with keys, without informing anyone = irresponsible.
• Such behavior is not expected from a good team player / a public servant.

DevAnand is running an NGO to help street children. He receives government grant of Rs.2 lakh rupees for a project to teach the “out of school” children, who work at tea-stalls, do boot-polishing etc. A year passes, but Dev managed to utilize only 50,000 rupees from the grant. Despite his best efforts, he couldn’t convince many poor children or their families to join his NGO’s program.

As per the grant rules, Dev has to return all the unspent money back to government by the end of March 31 st . But his colleague Pran suggests following:

• If we honestly return Rs.1.5 lakh back, then government officials will think we are amateur, ineffective NGOs and they’ll substantially reduce our grant for next year or even worse- they’ll not give us any project next time!
• We should take help of CA Prem Chopra to manipulate our account books and show majority of the grant was utilized for education.
• Many other NGOs do the same thing- there is no problem – nobody will raise any objection, as long as we give 20% of the grant to SDM in charge of this project.
• Although it sounds unethical but we won’t use this money for personal needs, we’ll use it on street children only. Hence our act is fully ethical and moral.

What should DevAnand do with the money?

Answer keypoints:

• “Because others are also doing it” – is never the valid justification to commit an unethical or criminal act.
• Manipulating account books to keep the grant money.
• Bribing SDM to keep the grant money.
• The shelf life of lie and deception is very low- especially when manipulating the account books – ask Ramalinga Raju, ex-chief of Satyam.
• DevAnand was unable to use 75% of the grant money, it implies
• Dev didn’t try hard enough OR
• Government had exaggerated the amount of money required to educate the out of school children OR

In anycase, If Dev keeps the unspent grant, government will continue pumping more money- other NGOs and the SDM will keep amassing wealth. Therefore, DevAnand should return the unspent grant back to the government.

DevAnand is the inspector in charge of Rampur Police station. The police station building is in dire need of repairs, but hasn’t received any grants for years. One day, a cyclone hits a nearby area, damaging most of the houses and shops. Although Dev’s police station gets partially damaged, but most of the building remain intact . Government sends a disaster assessment team to ascertain the level of damage and pay relief money. The DSP Mr. Pran, orders DevAnand to do following:

• Hire some laborers and destroy the remaining parts of your police station building.
• When disaster assessment team comes, you tell them building collapsed by the cyclone, and ask them to give priority in funding after all police station is one the most important public offices in a town.

Should DevAnand obey his boss’s order?

Answer keypoints The shelf life of lie and deception is very low. Especially when many people are involved. In this case: laborers and any bystanders. Both Dev and Pran are risking themselves to an unnecessary negative publicity and possible departmental inquiry and punishment for professional misconduct. Indeed police building needed repairs and should have been given a grant months ago, but three wrongs don’t make a right:

• Wanton destruction of a public building.
• Misleading the disaster assessment team.
• Police officer DevAnand spending his time and energy in such activity rather than doing rescue-relief-patrolling duty after the disaster.

DevAnand is working as an under Secretary in the pension department. One day, his friend GuruDutt, an SBI PO, narrates following incident:

• For last two years, a retired Government employee Mr.Ashok Kumar is giving away 30% of his monthly pension to Mrs.Bindu Chopra every month through cheque.
• I found Mrs.Bindu Chopra happens to be the wife of Mr.Prem Chopra, a section officer in the pension office under you (DevAnand.)
• I feel something is fishy- may be this is part of a large bribe scam where senior citizens are forced to pay money to clear their pension files from Prem Chopra, and have to submit bribes in his wife’s account.

DevAnand visits Mr.Ashok Kumar’s house but he is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, unable to give coherent answers. Frustrated DevAnand directly confronts Prem Chopra. But Prem says “Mr.Ashok Kumar was a friend of my father. He has no relatives or children and my wife Bindu has been taking care of him like daughter since a long time. Therefore, Mr.Ashok Kumar gives us money out of good will, so we can send our son to an expensive IIT coaching class @Kota, Rajasthan. Besides this is a personal family matter and none of your damn business.”

Do you think DevAnand made a blunder or was he merely performing an ethical duty?

Here, both GuruDutt and DevAnand has failed to act in responsible manner. Because:

• A banker must keep his clients’ data confidential, unless required by the law to disclose it.
• GuruDutt didn’t even wait to cross verify who else is giving money to Mrs.Bindu Chopra’s account. Because if there was a ‘large scale bribe scam’ then lot other senior citizens would be making payment to Bindu’s account, and not just Mr.Ashok Kumar alone.
• Even in that situation, Gurudutt had to consult his boss within his own bank first. He cannot go around giving informal tips to outsiders. This is an unethical act for a banker.
• DevAnand too acted in hasty manner. First, he starts ‘investigation’ based on an informal tip from a banker who is not supposed to tip him in the first place. He should have consulted the vigilance department before moving further.
• Second, Dev Anand confronts Prem Chopra, without any hardcore evidence. When you’re holding a public office, you can’t go around accusing people in such haste. It breaks the office discipline, destroys the staff morale and allows the guilty person to cover his tracks.

Prem Chopra, a civil society activist, has launched a mass-movement to change Prime-ministerial form of government to presidential form of government. Dev Anand is an undersecretary in the PMO. Before joining civil service, he had done Ph.D on the demerits of presidential form of government. He is invited by a news channel for prime-time debate. The newschannel anchor, Mr.Arnab Goswami assures DevAnand following:

• It’ll be only an educational-intellectual debate among scholars.
• No politicians from ruling or opposition party are invited in our show.
• You’re invited in your capacity as a scholar in political science and not as a bureaucrat.

Should DevAnand accept Arnab Goswami’s invitation for news-debate?

Answerkey point:

No. Because bureaucrats should not voice their opinion about political matters on public platform. Even if no politician is invited, some other scholar/participant/anchor might raise points in favour or against the ruling party during the debate, and Dev will find himself in a political minefield.

To curtail the mounting fiscal deficit, Finance Minister Pran Chindu decides to merge agriculture ministry with forest ministry; coal ministry with oil ministry and reduce personnel in the central services by 30%. But opposition party is hardly raising any objection –they are occupied with onion price rise issue. Media is too busy covering MS Dhoni’s new hairstyle.

DevAnand, an employee in the Cabinet secretariat feels both Opposition party and media have failed to perform their ethical duty to inform citizens about matters of public interest. Therefore, he starts writing anonymous blogs and tweets to inform public about the negative consequences of Chindu’s austerity measures. Is DevAnand doing the right thing?

Answer key points:

• No. DevAnand is not doing the right thing.
• Role of public servant is to obey the will of the community- articulated through the elected members including the said Finance Minister.
• Public servant has to remain politically neutral. Dev is crossing that Laxman-Rekha by his anonymous blogs.

DevAnand has been serving as the Chief fire officer in city for over 3 years. Because of his efficient management, there were very few fire incidents, no lives were lost and property damage was minimum. He enjoys almost a celebrity like status in local media and city dwellers. As the election year comes, Mayor Pran, with an aim to garner goodwill among voters, frames a budget with 10% pay raise to fire bridge staff and 25% pay raise for the Chief fire Officer. Should DevAnand accept it or not/Why?

• Firefighting is a team work. Team leader must display fairness and equity.
• If Dev accepts 25% raise, it could promote his image as an aloof, insensitive, self-serving boss. Staff may not follow his lead with same enthusiasm afterwards.
• Therefore, Dev should not accept more than what is being offered to other employees of Fire brigade. (10%).

Pran, the bank employee, approaches Bank Manager DevAnand and says following:

• My child is suffering from blood cancer. I don’t have health insurance policy and my salary is insufficient to meet these medical expenses.
• But over the years, I’ve been collecting autographed bats and balls of various cricketers.
• I seek your permission to hold a charity auction in the office. I’ll also send fliers to clients of our bank. Everyone is welcome to bid for these bats and balls, so I can raise money for the medical treatment of my child.

Three other bank employees-Prem Chopra, Madan Puri and Ranjith overhear this conversation. They also inform DevAnand – indeed Pran’s financial situation is very bad and his child will die if the treatment is not done on time, therefore permission should be given to hold this charity auction.

Should Dev give permission or not?

• No. Because some members may informally feel pressured to give money -Especially Pran’s juniors and subordinates.
• It might create a feeling of alienation between employees who bid and those who don’t.
• Next time another employee will try to do the same, may be with a trivial reason e.g. I’m willing to auction t-shirts autographed by filmstars to repay the last EMI of my home loan, allow me to hold auction in the office. And if Dev says no that time, it might create an impression Dev is biased towards certain employees- staff morale goes down.
• Therefore, it is best to keep auctions and other money raising activities out of the workplace irrespective of their noble aims.

DCP DevAnand marries Sub inspector Rosie. In the office, Rosie doesn’t directly report to DevAnad but Dev has responsibility for signing off on her annual evaluation. Although Dev doesn’t give any preferential treatment to Rosie but one of her colleague, Prem Chopra, complained several times to the DIG Pran: “Dev saab always gives highest ratings to his wife and I’m always given average ratings despite my best performance in criminal investigations.“

DIG conducts inquiry, doesn’t find anything against DevAnand. Later Dev officially reprimands Prem Chopra for this unprofessional behavior.

Frustrated Prem Chopra narrates this incident to his wife Bindu. Bindu decides to take matters in her own hands, writes an anonymous email to the local press, informing how Rosie hasn’t legally divorced her first husband Marco, yet she is staying with DCP DevAnand and gives vivid details of their “adulterous” live-in relationship.

Rita reporter, an expert on such masala news, starts giving ball by ball commentary in her newspaper about Rosie’s past by interviewing her college friends, neighbors, relatives etc. Everybody in the town starts gossiping about this. Dev asks his IT expert friend GuruDutt to investigate. GuruDutt digs out that email originated from Prem Chopra’s home computer.What should DevAnand do:  Reprimand Prem Chopra once more?  Suspend him for indiscipline? Sue him for defamation? Is doing nothing an option?

• Doing nothing is not a viable option since situations like this only fester and become more problematic.
• It is never a good practice for a public official to have a relative in a subordinate position. Despite efforts to avoid perceived acts of favoritism, sooner or later the official will find himself being accused of an inappropriate action. Therefore, Police and Military organizations often have anti-fraternization policies. (e.g. As per the US Air Force rules, one of the couple has to quit from the service.)
• This situation is all about the perception of favoritism. The perception may or may not be true whether DevAnand is giving preferential treatment to Rosie during annual performance evaluation.
• To prevent this from happening, DevAnand needs to stop chasing Prem Chopra and take steps to get his wife posted in another office, or seek his own transfer to another office.
• Last but not least, the DevAnand should put to rest the question of the legality of his marriage to avoid future accusations.

Prem Chopra runs a company that offers private security guards, CCTV, burglary alarm and other security devices.

DCP DevAnand learns that everytime after a theft or robbery takes place, Police Inspector Pran advices the victim and bystanders to install security devices from Prem Chopra’s company to make their home and shops secure from criminals. Pran even tells them “ When you goto Prem Chopra’s office, tell him I’ve sent you, he’ll give you special discount. ”

Dev confronts Pran about this matter. Pran justifies his action by saying:

• Yes, I take money for Prem Chopra to endorse his security products for homes and offices.
• I use this money to pay my informers and keep a check on criminal elements. I don’t spent this money on myself or my family.
•  Even municipal buses and railway-wagons have advertisements, then why is an endorsement by a city official unethical or illegal?
• Besides, Prem Chopra’s security devices are very effective at preventing burglary.

Should DevAnand permit Pran to continue this endorsement activity? Yes/No/Why?

• Advertisement on bus / railway wagon is not same as a public official promoting a brand. Because those bus/railway ads don’t interfere with vehicle’s primary function of transporting persons from one place to another. But when a public official promotes a brand, he is spending part of his office time and energy for private gain rather than serving the citizen.
• If Dev permits Pran, then other staff members will also start similar marketing. Thus part of the office-time will diverted to selling products rather than solving crime
• Might even lead to internal rivalries about who is earning more commissions.
• Citizens may feel informal pressure to buy such products fearing their file / matter will not be cleared by the public officials otherwise.
• Endorsements of commercial products by public officials can easily result in an unethical situation: sharing financial gain through bribes, kickbacks, or postemployment opportunities for government officials.

In short, it will open a Pandora’s box. Therefore, DevAnand should order Pran to stop this activity at once.

DevAnand is a brilliant maths teacher in a private English medium school in Ahmedabad and gets yearly package of Rs.3 lakhs. Another school at Baroda offers him package of Rs. 3.5 lakhs. Dev makes a verbal commitment to the Baroda school principle, “Sure,I’ll join your school from next month.“

But when Dev submits his resignation to A’bad school, its Principle Mr.Pran requests him to stay and offers new package of Rs.3.8 lakhs. Should Dev take back his resignation? yes/no/why?

• from ethical perspective, even verbal acceptance = contract. And contract must be honored.
• Even if Pran’s counteroffer is higher, Dev has a moral obligation to remain consistent with his original intention (of joining Baroda school).

(Copy pasting a news report from TheHindu )

December 7, 2012, Chandigarh.

Robanjit Kaur, 23-year-old daughter of ASI Ravinderpal Singh was returning home after her IELTS coaching class when Shiromani Akali Dal leader Ranjit Singh Rana and his goons started teasing her. She called up her father Mr.Ravinderpal Singh, an ASI with Punjab Police.

When her father arrived and confronted the group, a heated argument followed and Rana pulled out his pistol and began firing at both father and daughter. Both received bullet injuries and father collapsed.

Even as Ms. Kaur struggled to shift her father into a vehicle to take him to hospital, Rana and his gang returned with a rifle and shot Ravinderpal Singh again in full public view.

Ms. Kaur said to media, “Rana kept kicking and hitting us in full public glare. I cried and pleaded for help but everyone ran away. Even when the ambulance came, I had to lift my father into it as no one came to help me.”

End of news.

A Sociologist remarks: “Our government has not set up a system to encourage civilians to fight against criminal acts. Why should someone risk injury or their life to save another if one’s life or livelihood is endangered? Government needs to enact a new scheme named after you know who , to reward any civilian with Rs.10 lakh, a government job and a 3 BHK flat, if he prevents a crime in a public place.”

Do you believe announcing big financial rewards to pedestrians who standup against a criminal, will change the situation? Does or can courage have a price tag? Yes/No/Why?

• Indeed an act of courage should be rewarded and applauded.
• But running a scheme with Rs.10 lakh and a government job, might lead to vigilante mobs of unemployed youth, roaming around with hokey sticks and baseball bats looking for a crime to happen (or orchestrating a crime by themselves) in order to get the money and the job.
• In the given case, goons were armed with pistols and rifles. No unarmed civilian can be expected to fight with them. In future, might lead to a situation where a poor man intentionally jumps in the fight, knowing fully well that he’ll be killed- but only doing so his family can get Rs.10 lakh.
• Maintenance of law and order is state’s responsibility not civilians’. Money is better spent on recruiting more policemen and judges.

For more on case studies & revision notes, visit Mrunal.org/ETHICS

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62 comments.

Thank u buddy

epic(awe)some ;) as always

Wonderful adaptation from ASPA Book Mrunal. Exemplary work.

@MRUNAL SIR PLEASE POST THE E-BOOK…

Thank you sir..

This is very good article on UPSC, thank you very much for providing such a nice article, for more about UPSC, please visit to http://upscmpscguide.blogspot.in

sir should we buy this book and from where,I mean what material should we read to answer your questions

anyone having this book pls share

thank you very much sir.you have done very good job.

really commendable job…thanx sir

Hi Mrunal, I have recently started following your Blog and I must say that you are doing a great job. Can you please suggest me some books or reading resources for preparing for “Ethics” section of the exam ? Can any of the other aspirants suggest something on this? Thanks.

Sir,cAn u suggest some boooks for this paper

Great job Mrunal…. This is my first site by first surfing on the internet for the ethics …so I appreciate u for data… So I am starting for ethics right now….

Please suggest a good book for GS Paper 4…Subbarao or Arihant…or any other.

Sir,please post important study materials for preparation of

UPSC(GS -4) mains paper on my Email.I need your help sir .please!!!

#Case Study : You have an opportunity for an internship in a respected business in the community. Part of your qualifications comes from a Senior Project that you worked on with several other students. Through the interview process, you discover that you are given credit for a key section of the project that really impressed the company. In fact, another member of your senior team, with little input from you, did that section. How do you proceed?

Firstly if you are aware that your senior has helped you out to get your work done then say the truth.

Mrunal sir ur site has been extremely beneficial fo my mains prep

Commendable perspective..

Lovely article – one of the best things I’ve recently read, and by far the most useful. I think it could also be useful for everyone to know how and where to fill a form online. Try PDFfiller to fill a form here http://goo.gl/W3yHeH . It allows you to to fill out PDF files.

Dear Mrunal Greetings from Nepal,

The Public Service Commission (PSC) of Nepal recently changed the syllabus of Joint Secretary. It includes one of the chapters “Ethics and Morality” has covered different topics which almost you are mentioned in your site. Here (Kathmandu) most of the aspirants of PSC competition exam (especially Joint Secretary competition ) has been suffering from the materials in this topics. Actually, I benefited…

Thank u very very much for ur great job….

Bal Sagar Giri Under Secretary Government of Nepal

Plz sir which books are study for ethics

Sir, Please provide a list of materials that are needed to ace the ethics paper.

Sir, Please update it to the next level. Thank you for the great work.

Sir Aap jo abhi case study newspaper analysis me dete ho uske model answer bhi diya kro

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UPSC Essentials | Expert talk: How to answer Ethics Case Study

Ethics case studies has remained one of the most challenging areas of the upsc cse since new reforms in the syllabus were introduced in 2013. as aspirants appear for mains 2023 today, doubts remain the same. manas srivastava talks to nanditesh nilay about the relevance and strategies for case studies..

March 5, 2013 was not a usual day for UPSC aspirants. Like every year, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) released the notification for Civil Services exam. But what set the 2013 notification apart was that it introduced big changes in the pattern of the Civil Services Main exam.

One of the essential changes was the introduction of a complete descriptive paper on Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude. This was a new paper, so no one had any idea about the kinds of questions that could be asked in this paper and how to answer them. The most ambiguous area of this paper, which still remains a big challenge in terms of time and content is the CASE STUDY section.

Since UPSC Essentials of The Indian Express has been constantly receiving queries and doubts related to the case studies of Ethics paper of UPSC, Manas Srivastava takes up some of the common questions in our Experts talk today with our Ethics expert, Dr Nanditesh Nilay.

About our Expert: Nanditesh Nilay is the author of ‘Being Good and Aaiye, Insaan Banaen’ and ‘Ethikos: Stories Searching Happiness’. He teaches courses on and offers training in ethics, values and behaviour. He has been the expert/consultant to UPSC, SAARC countries, Civil services Academy, National Centre for Good Governance, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Competition Commission of India (CCI), etc. He has PhD in two disciplines and has been a Doctoral Fellow in Gandhian Studies from ICSSR. His second PhD is from IIT Delhi  on Ethical Decision Making among Indian Bureaucrats. He writes for the UPSC Ethics Simplified (Concepts and Caselets) fortnightly.

Manas: Why is there a separate section of case studies in the Ethics paper? What do you think is the rationale of UPSC behind it?

Nanditesh Nilay: Ethics is an important paper in the syllabus of UPSC CSE but we should approach this paper more as a virtue or virtuous act rather than just as a paper to qualify. So, this paper must be handled with care. The concepts or terms can be read and explained from the examination point of view. But I will emphasise that ethical virtues are there to be imbibed rather than only becoming a part of written culture. The career of a person will be assessed by the self and society later. Ethical virtues will act as a central variable.

On the other hand, case studies equip us to describe and explore a problem, a dilemma, or a phenomenon. It pushes us to compare and evaluate the ethical aspects within and around those dilemmas. It increases the area of thinking and learning to focus on the core issue of a problem. A case study is a baptism by fire. You should not present yourself as the smartest person in handling case studies. A case study demands rationality and wisdom, if wisdom and moral rationality are smartness in this era.

As a future bureaucrat, there will be many instances where you will be caught in situations where your ethics, integrity, and aptitude will play an important role. Not just as a bureaucrat, but also as a citizen and a human being you will face many such situations in life. Such situations are given in the form of case studies in your exam. So, in the true sense, they are applications of what you have learned in theory and through experiences of life.

Manas: What is the connection between theory (section A) and case studies section B? Do you think there is a logic behind the theory section preceding the case study section?

Nanditesh Nilay: Let’s go with an example. Defining trust is fine. Section A will take care of that. But to travel with the spirit of trust, the student will have to board i.e. case study. Is there a clear logic behind this correlation between the two sections? They should not be treated as segregated or silos. They are integrated.

To emphasise further, it is worth reading the theory of Kant or Gilligan but only case studies communicate to the examiner or the self that one has evolved and emerged through those values and ethics. Also, even in our personal and professional lives, every problem is like a case that always assesses our roots and strength of character. Life is a case study and it challenges us every moment to grow and connect the dots of life. Here, I will point out that do not jump to solve case studies before having command over concepts. Hence theory precedes case studies. While studying concepts and definitions keep thinking of examples and situations.

For example, the syllabus mentions: Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service, Integrity, Impartiality and Non-partisanship, Objectivity, Dedication to Public Service, Empathy, Tolerance, and Compassion towards the weaker sections.

A general approach here will be to learn the definitions and know a few examples. Is that all? No. while thinking of examples also think of situations where you have to show compassion, empathy, impartiality, etc. Ask yourself, why and how? Is there any philosophical basis for those answers too?

In this way, you will be preparing the base of the case studies. During exams, when you will face case studies on different themes, it is this practice that will strike your mind and provide fodder for your answers. These things can’t be taught or learned. It comes from reading good articles, and essays and applying them in appropriate situations.

Manas: What are some general themes that aspirants should prepare for exams- case study?

Nanditesh Nilay: It is not easy to list down the expected themes of case studies in an examination. However, in the past sports ethics, gender ethics, medical ethics, and environmental ethics have been asked. Even citizen ethics is equally important in the VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) time. If you go through the past year’s papers themes like corruption, work culture, private and public life, and probity have occurred repeatedly. The ethical dilemma has been at the core of most of the case studies.

Don’t forget to note what the ethics syllabus says towards its end… “Case Studies on above issues.” This means all the concepts mentioned in the theory part can either be major themes of a case study or sub-themes.

Manas: UPSC doesn’t specify any method to answer the case study. This makes students clueless. If you can suggest some methods to answer the case study.

Nanditesh Nilay: There is no so-called standard for addressing any case study. And in every field, new problems cannot guarantee old methods of solutions. It was evident in the pandemic. In a lot of states and districts district magistrates came up with innovative ideas and approaches. Certainly, ethics was at the center. One can follow a few steps while solving any case study:

A. Identify the macro and micro problems

B. Find the interrelation among them

C. Read those ethical aspects even which are presented in a vague way

D. Think about the ethical concepts, theories, values and philosophers.

E. Find their relevance in using them as a means for solving the case.

F. Answer in a pragmatic way. The golden mean of Aristotle.

G. You must look convincing in standing firm with ethics and not compromising on deliverables as well.

Manas: When reading a case study, what should be the focus of aspirants?

Nanditesh Nilay: Read at least two times. Underline the important and urgent issues. Connect the dots of ethics. Don’t try to answer the case rather mark your attempt with a pragmatic solution. A case study is not only to get solved but to build the character of those who believe in thinking, observing, absorbing, connecting, reviewing, relating, and remaining impersonal.

The answer must assure the examiner that ethics is beating across.

Manas: How and from where to practice case studies for exams?

Nanditesh Nilay: I will certainly suggest UPSC Essentials of The Indian Express . There is a lot of material available on the internet, but the best is to read Edit and Idea pages well. Ultimately most of the present issues are cases only. For example, our CJI had recently emphasized the Values of Goodness. In his own words, “Being a good person and being a good lawyer is not mutually exclusive. And if you ever find yourself in a situation when one comes at the cost of the other, I urge you to become a good person first,” he said. This is such a compelling statement; generations will have to think.

Manas: What are important elements to keep in mind while answering a case study, which an examiner will definitely look for?

Nanditesh Nilay: First, the student must be well-versed with Section A. It is the foundation of knowledge as well as the character. Second, the aspirant should be thinking wisely and carrying a holistic view. Third, the approach must be convincing and for that league, only an ethical ink is responsible for. And fourth, the student must be sensitive and nothing should be deceitful or cosmetic. One cannot impress through ethics but only reach the common. Remember this for your life in general.

Manas: Is there any importance in the presentation of a case study?

Nanditesh Nilay: A case study is itself a presentation of a phenomenon. Answering wisely, clearly, and methodically should be the focus. The biggest statement of a case study is of Mahatma Gandhi when he said, “My life is a message.” So, we all human beings leave a message for generations. Ethical virtues shape life as a message. ‘Message’ is the word I stress upon. Do the aspirants believe in making their civil service journey a message of ethical virtues? Let’s answer this case.

Share your views, answers and suggestions in the comment box or at manas.srivastava@ indianexpress.com

🚨  This story is part of our special initiative for UPSC and other competitive exams. Look out for  UPSC KEY  and  UPSC Essentials  on weekdays, Weekly news express with MCQs, Key Terms of the past week, Quizzes as well as The Indian Express 360° Upsc Debate, Society & Social Justice, UPSC Mains Practice, Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik, UPSC Ethics Simplified, Experts Talk, and more.   🚨

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ETHICS CASE STUDIES FOR UPSC – By Tirthankar Roychowdhary Sir

Batch information.

• Discussion of 100 Case Studies
• Online & offline modes
• case study workbook

Talk with our Counsellors

Mr. sumit mandal, mr. preetam solanki.

Many UPSC CSE aspirants face the dilemma of how to write good answers for ethics case study questions.

Ethics Case Studies are a major need for UPSC aspirants who want to improve their score in Ethics – GS Paper IV. 

This course on ethics case studies by EDEN IAS is an answer to the above question. We provide a proper hand holding approach to tackle ethics case studies with the right approach to answer them, along with solutions and practice sessions. These solved case studies give a boost to your preparation. This course gives you a competitive environment to grow with all those aspirants who are already selected or are trying to improve their score in Mains. This 10 -day ethics case studies workshop can help you to score high in UPSC GS Mains Examination.

COURSE STRUCTURE

Ethics case Studies course consists of seven classes that span across a week’s time. The classes will be followed by two mock tests in the ensuing week. This program has been comprehensively designed to cover every aspect of case studies. The main idea, under this course, is to create an engaging platform for the student wherein s/he can unleash his/her full potential regarding case study answer writing and master this imperative skill relating to General Studies- IV in a time bound manner. The entire program will be conducted under the expert guidance of Mr. Tirthankar Roychowdhary . 

The details of the program are as under.

Course Duration: 14 days.

Class Duration : 3 hours.

No. of Classes: 10 classes.

Total No. of Case Studies covered under the course : 100+

No. of Tests under the course : 2 Mock Tests on case studies.

Study Practice Booklet : Consisting of 100+ Case Studies.

Course Fee : Rs. 4,000/- only (Incl. GST)

List of Books:

Eden IAS provide 1 comprehensive booklets.

• Ethics Case-Study Workbook — Click here for the Book

"> "> RELATED Courses

Ethics GS-4

Essay writing upsc mains, upsc mains answer writing.

ETHICS CASE STUDIES for upsc

CASE STUDIES WITH MODEL ANSWERS FOR UPSC GS 4

PART 1 CASES 1­-10

Case Study 1: You are stranded in traffic in your car. You are driving the car. A poor girl looking very frail approaches you and start begging for  money.  Looking at he frail appearance, out of compassion, you take  out your wallet to search for a ten Rupees note.  The girl who is  standing very near to you snatches the wallet and starts running.  A  man on a motorbike who see this act, catches the girl and starts  beating her in full view of public.  Now the traffic is moving and your  car is in the middle of the road. What will you do in such a situation? And why?

Model Answer: Action should be as follow:

1. Park Car­ so that no disturbance to the traffic.

2. Call to destination where I was heading about the emergency so  that they will not wait for me.

3. Reach the spot where the man is beating girl and immediately  stop him and ask him not to beat or take law in his hand.Thank him for taking notice of the theft and taking action, but remind him that  the girl is very young and could have acted out of hunger too Remind him gently that it is a public space and such act physical  violence could land him in legal trouble. This should lower his anger.

4. If girl is injured­ carry out first aid from the box available in the  car. Get her something to eat and drink.

5. Try to know her history and then informing to NGO or child care  centre and personally taking to there will be my choice since leaving  her just like that will make her to repeat the act since its the poverty and poor care made her to act. If these are given girl will desist from  such acts.

6. Make an occasional follow up of the girl with the agency to whom  she had been handed over to.

Case Study 2: Recently a peon was appointed in your office (DM office).He is  illiterate and mentally not sound. Ever since his appointment he has been more of a ‘burden’ than any help in the offce. He doesn’t know  any work. Staff in your office feel that their work is disturbed by his  behaviour. The peon is always found to be talking either alone or with anyone he  encounters. He is not obeying your staff’s orders in the office. He was appointed on sympathy grounds after his father’s untimely  death. His mother is ill and always bedridden. His income is the only source for his family now. He got the job after lobbying by a group  representing his caste. He was appointed by your predecessor after  he was pressurized by local MP. Some moves to remove him by your predecessor were met  with public protests by a group representing his caste. You are very strict and disciplined  in your office. You are being  respected in your district for your integrity and honesty. You come to know about the peon few days after you assume power. You have  observed his behaviour and found him to be unfit to continue in his  job. The peon has no other relatives except his mother.

Identify your moral and professional responsibilities in this case  study and explain how will you deal with the peon.

Model Answer: Since the peon is unfit for the job, the option of continuing him is  ruled out. so protection to his family should remain the priority of  DM.

Responsibilities of DM:

1. social security and health care to peon and his mother

2. removing the peon peacefully after pacifying all parties involved

Course of action to be followed:

1. Certain actions of peon in the office should be video ­recorded such  as not heeding to the officers, disturbing others in office etc.

2. On priority, DM should make an arrangement for social security  benefits along with health insurance to peon and his mother. A  request for pension should also be made to higher authorities on  exceptional grounds.

3. There after a meeting should be arranged with his caste members  to explain the real problem being faced in the office and why he  should be removed from the office by showing them video ­clips.

4. At the same time DM should take own responsibility for peon’s  pension and other benefits before the members.

5. Once they agree, his removal would be done in a smooth manner  without any controversy.

6. In case they do not agree immediately, steps should be taken to  constantly persuade the key members of his caste group one ­by­ one  through constant consultations and that would surely resolve the  problem.

7. In doing the above, work culture and discipline in the organisation will be protected but at the same time solved the problems of most  vulnerable people i.e. peon and his mother empathetically.

Case Study 3: You are working as Junior Engineer in a Tehsil. You have been given responsibility to measure MGNREGA works undertaken by 3 Gram  Panchayats. You have authority to give technical sanctions to all  MGNREGA works. In one of these Panchayats you notice that your  predecessor had wrongly measured many works, and in many cases  he had approved works that never existed. One day  few elected  members of that Panchayat with bundle of job cards come to you to  seek ‘sanction’ for the works done by them. When enquired, they  reveal that they were contractors who had completed works under  MGNREGA. When you reject their demand, they threaten you and  tell you that the previous Junior Engineer was made to quit his job  because he didn’t listen to them. This is your first job and is very  important to sustain your family. There have been precedents in the  past that some junior officials were beaten to death in some parts of  the Tehsil.

What will you do in this situation? Explain in detail citing rules from MGNREGA Act.

Model Answer:  I would tell contractor that there is provision of social audit for  MGNREGA and in future it is most likely that they would get caught in future. Also the provision of DBT and biometric authentication  will reveal all their wrong doings. Subsequently i will report such incidence to my higher authorities  and seek police protection in case my life is at risk. A report of bogus  as well as valid JOB card shall be separately prepared by me which  shall lie as a proof for all past irregularities. My courage and uprightness will deter me from succumbing to their  demands. In any case if i comply as directed by contractors, my job  would be in peril. Truth can’t be hidden for long and its better to be  courageous than to hide facts and face future actions.

Case Study 4: As a DM of a home district of serving Chief Minister, you find out  that a huge land scam has taken place in which close relatives of the  Chief Minister are involved. The scam which you have unearthed has caused lots of financial loss to the state’s exchequer. You have been  recently married to a daughter of an MLA who is known as staunch  political enemy of the CM. While you are investigating the matter for further proofs, before you  make this issue public, the CM comes to know about this. He  threatens you with dire consequences if you do not close the file and  bury the matter silently. He threatens you with false criminal cases  and CBI investigation in case you do not budge. Unfortunately, a case is pending against  you regarding misuse of treasury funds, in which you haven’t done  anything wrong. This case can be reopened and used against you.   However, if you stop investigation, he has assured you that you will  be given a plum post in the capital.

Identify which course of action are available to you.  Examine each action’s merits and demerits.  Finally, explain which course of action would you follow and why?

Model Answer: In this situation, the following options are available: 1. Acting as per the directions of the CM and close the file in return  for the plum job and to avoid investigation. 2. Carry on with the investigation to find substantiate proofs to the  issue which caused loss to the exchequer.  Upholding the law and  constitution to which i owe my allegiance.

3. Use my father­in­law’s position to expose the current CM and  share the gain of this expose with my father ­in­ law. 4. Report the matter in media anonymously.

1. Plum post will be rewarded

2. Will be freed from the threat of CM and career will be safe

1. Loss to the state exchequer and ultimate sufferer would be public 2. Subversion of constitutionally mandated duty for the personal  benefit

3. public image and trust will be lost

1. upholding personal integrity,objectivity, honesty, spirit of civil  service 2. unearthing such act would cause deleterious effect on others who  may be indulged in similar other activities 3. bringing such issue before the public will improve trust and  confidence between state machinery and public. 4. Send a strong message to the political class that honest civil  servant would not succumb to their pressure tactics. Demerits:

1. Lot of personal hardship caused in the process including false CBI  inquiry.

2. Putting life and family in jeopardy (Similarly merits and demerits in Option 3 and Option 4). Course of action to be followed:

I would choose option 2. Investigation would be carried out as usual.  Meanwhile CM should be told politely but firmly that I am  performing my constitutionally mandated duties and I have no  option to Go. There is a possibility that CM’s party workers would spread message that MLA is playing vendetta politics through his in ­law. So sound  proofs before the public are necessary to avoid any backfire. If CM, in the meanwhile starts any CBI investigation on my any past acts, I would welcome that as I have not done anything wrong. Even  Government suspends, I would cooperate with the enquiry to prove  my innocence. If necessary I would move to court for protection  against harassment. But in no case, I would close the file to avoid any personal hardship  to my career and my family as it would amount to compromising on  my values and ethics which civil service holds.

Case Study 5: You have passed UPSC Civil Services exam with a very good rank  and you have given first preference to IAS and your home state. You  will get home cadre as you are the topper from the state and there is  vacancy available under your category. A former Chief Minister, who  belongs to your caste, now wants to make you his Son­in­ Law.   Just  like you, his daughter is also a graduate from top foreign university,  she is very beautiful and as per information gathered from different  sources by your parents, she is a down to earth and sweet girl. The former Chief Minister is also the head of the political party he  belongs to and there is every chance that he would become Chief  Minister again if his party comes to power in next elections. Your  parents are on cloud nine ever since this marriage offer has been  proposed. The former Chief Minister was jailed for few years in the past on  corruption and murder charges. There are serious cases still pending against him in different courts. He is very rich.  He has only one  daughter. His family has liked you a lot for your personality and looks also.  They want you to be their Son ­in ­Law at any cost. The girl has also  liked you. Recently they have sent costly gifts to your parents, about  which you were unaware of.

1) Do you think it is unethical for you to marry the girl as you are going to serve in the same state and where there are chances of you working under your future Father ­in ­Law? (150 Words)

2) Will you deny this marriage proposal because your father­in­law was a criminal and many cases against him are pending? Comment. (100 Words)

3) Critically examine ethical issues involved in this case study. (100 Words)

Model Answer:

1) Under this situation I will ready to marry the girl as she was well  educated and down to earth, and my parents also like her . I don’t  think that there will be any issue in this .More specifically I dont  think that any one can affect integrity of job, influence my decision  or take undue advantage of my position until I don’t give him the authority to do  so. For a civil servant it is very important to make clear  differentiation between his personal affairs and duties. And what  was the guarantee that If I marry some other girl than her parents  or relatives does not try to take undue advantage of my post. Here the question is related to my  integrity , and I am constitutionally bound for my duty , and do so  without any external pressure.

2) In this situation just by pending cases one can not consider a  person criminal. It was the prerogative of court and let it decide so.  And I have no authority to vanish some one image just on the basis  of pending cases. As an civil servant it is very important for me that  my decisions, should not be based on my prejudice. Rather than I will work accordance to  law. And laws clearly revealed that no person is guilty until proven  so. Also even if he is proven guilty, there is no fault with her  daughter as she is down to earth and gentle. Just being a daughter  of a criminal does not make her a criminal.

3) Ethical issues involved: Honesty: for the efficient working in future without thinking of any  personal gains of postings and promotions. Integrity: for being honest , integrity is the prerequisite and moral  strength makes a complete integrated personality having no  confusions in taking decisions.

Unbiasedness: taking decisions uprightly requires no deviations  from the objectives of the decision and its impact on the greater  interests of the targeted section of the society. Foresight: any present action could impact the future outcomes so a great vision is required instead of myopic views..

Case Study 6: You are a Block Development Officer. You have been invited by a  Panchayat Secretary to attend the Gram Sabha meeting. The  meeting has been called to allot houses to the poor with an aim to  make this Panchayat free of huts. State government has sent you a  strict direction to provide durable houses to all the needy and to  make sure no village has a single hut anywhere. In the meeting a very old widow approaches you and tells you that  she is living in a hut which is dilapidated and is about to collapse.  She has no one in the village and she is all alone and she is at the  fag end of her life. When you are about to recommend her a house  out of empathy, Panchayat Secretary reveals that she was allotted an house few years ago and  that she had sold the house to pay her husband’s debt. Some  villagers who treat her as insane old widow also raise objections to  grant her another house. She is very old and she is almost begging you to help her. Selling her  previous house was illegal as per Panchayat rules. She has nowhere  to go. As per government’s directive, she can not continue to live in a  hut.

In this circumstance what decision will you take? Explain why.

Model Answer: The case involves conflict between legality of allotment and society’s  larger issue that is poverty. Following ethical considerations are  there. 1.Women is old thus require greater protection(Article ­14 – equal  protection of law) 2.Women is poor with no one to care. (Re distributive justice) 3.She sold her house in previous allotment. 4.It is illegal to give her second allotment plus public opinion is  against such allotment. Course of action: 1. Discuss the problem of old lady with her and try to find out  corrective solution by ensuring a pension and benefits under  governmental schemes. 2. Discuss the issue of old lady in panchayat and try to build  consensus by explaining her pitiable conditions. Further, sensitize  villagers towards plight and social security of poor and old. 3. If villagers respond in negative, discuss with people in higher  hierarchy to get permission to allot her house second time with a  strict warning to not to sell it again otherwise legal actions will be  taken. 4.If nothing works, contact an NGO or old age home and make  arrangements for her care either at her village or at the home.

Case Study 7 : Rekha cleared UPSC civil services exam and became an IAS officer.  After her probationary training, she was posted as CEO of Zilla  Panchayat in a very backward district in a far away state from her  home. There, violence and discrimination against women was  rampant. The politicians, including elected representatives were  known for their contempt against women officers in the district.  Rekha’s parents tried to persuade her to marry an IAS officer (male) from their home state who had shown interest in marrying her to  ensure her return to her home state where, her parents thought, she would get a safe and cosy posting. Rekha firmly told her parents that she wanted to face such  hardships and serve backward regions. As soon as she assumed her  office, rumours were spread about her past and alleged links with  mafia in the region. She had taken extraordinary measures to stop  illegal activities such as sand smuggling and encroachment of  government property despite risk to her life. A recent news report  alleged that she was going soft on mafia. Another report suggested  that she had an affair with an IAS officer working in a neighbouring  district.

Identify the elements of  ethical concerns and dilemma in the above  case and substantiate how you would have responded to each of such  concerns and dilemma if you were Rekha..

Model Answer: An upright and honest officer faces organised campaign from vested  interest to prevent her from performing public duties.  Unsubstantiated rumours and personal attacks to malign her image  and damage the reputation should be tackled head on by Rekha in  this case. Elements of ethical concerns and dilemma in above case are: 1. Choosing between person, family comfort and commitment to  public duty. 2. Performing one’s duty without paying heed to rumours or to dispel rumours to maintain credibility and integrity. 3. Protecting one’s privacy in public life(and women’s dignity) when  vested interest allege of immorality Appropriate response in this  case would involve that rather than succumbing to pressure of vested interest and organised mafia, she should be take appropriate legal  recourse. The strategy to deal with each of situation can be: 1. Rekha should persuade her parents that it doesn’t matter where  she serve in home state or any other state. She should make choice  based on her own commitment, aptitude, duty and comfort rather  than under parental or societal pressure. 2. Proper legal recourse should be taken against the people  spreading lie and falsehood. Though it may distract some of time and attention from official duties, but it is essential for maintaining not  only personal integrity but also professional credibility of authority. 3. A defamation case may be initiated against people spreading  rumours. A official have full right to her privacy in person sphere.

Case Study 8: You are a Collector of a district. The Chief Minister has arrived to  attend a private function and at the same time has summoned all  offcials to get reports on various works in progress in the district.  Your family was also invited by the organisers of this private function. Because of some  issues at home, you arrive half an hour late to the function where  meeting is also being held by the CM. The CM, who is known for ill  temper, soundly abuses you in front of all dignitaries, your wife and  children. You are insulted and humiliated in full public glare. This was your first such  experience.

How will you react? Explain and give reasons. (150 Words)

Model Answer: At that instance, several emotions would be running through my  mind. Embarrassment, ego, frustration, guilt etc. The first thing I  would do is manage my emotions because such emotions could lead  to taking ill decisions and it is my duty to protect the respect and  integrity of the post of Chief minister and Collector. Instead would  try to use them to act accordingly. Secondly, I would apologise to the Chief Minister and all the other  officials as I have wasted their time. As being the head of the  district, I should be the first person to intimate the CM about the  happenings in the district, so my delay is not pardonable. Thirdly, I would explain the reason for my delay. If I don’t then I  would be setting a bad precedent to all the other officials. Quarterly, to recover the thirty minutes lost, I would think of ways to give the perfect brief and also save time by eliminating other  unproductive activities of the meeting. Because due to time constraint, it should not affect the information  being given to the Chief Minister.

Case Study 9: Ravi and Ramya, a newly married couple, have joined same company as software engineers. They are put under a same team leader. The  team leader  has started flirting with Ravi’s wife. He has also  started giving trouble to Ravi in terms of putting him under lot of  work related pressure. Both Ravi and Ramya have signed contract  with the company. Ravi is now asking Ramya to leave the job and stay at home. Ramya  is just friendly with the team leader, and she thinks he is harmless.  Though she has told Ravi about this, Ravi wants her to leave the job  at any cost. After few months Ramya got promotion whereas Ravi  didn’t. She is made team leader of another team and she now reports to manager who  was her former team leader. These developments have further  depressed Ravi and lately he has started doubting his wife. However, Ramya has always been faithful to Ravi.

If you were in Ravi’s and Ramya’s place, what would you do  respectively? (200 Words)

Model Answer: As Ravi, i would like to openly convey to my wife about the  insecurities i feel in her interaction with her boss and her  subsequent promotion. I would also like to say to her i trust her lot  and would only want good for her and was happy that she had got  promotion, but i dint really trust the intent of her boss (my former  TL) and therefore i would like her to trust me in my feelings and stay away from him since it was  probably sending a wrong message to him, who was misinterpreting  her friendly nature and also as it was damaging our personal  relations due to my insecurities, if she wasnt ready to leave the job,  as it would be best possible outcome.

As Ramya i would make my husband understand about my nature  and my friendliness, which dint mean anything more apart from just that. I would address my husband’s insecurities by listening to him  patiently and understanding it in the light of my recent promotion, it would only complicate his thought process. Since i would not like to leave the job i would for one trust my husband and keep my interactions with boss to only professional level since it would inspire confidence in my  husband. However to address his deeper bias against me i would give him a plain talk about my freedom, integrity and choices, and the fact that his  distrust will not help matters hence he should be more open to me  interacting with male counterparts without any bias.

Case Study 10: You are traveling in a government bus to attend a very important job interview. In one hour you should be present at the interview venue.  The bus is very congested. Luckily you are seated. From your seat  you observe that a middle aged man standing next to a girl is  touching and trying to molest her. The girl is silently resisting and trying to move away  from him. But the man is continuing his actions. As the bus is  congested, nobody is noticing this except you.

1) In this situation, what will you do? Explain. (150 Words) 2) If you do not do anything, which values will you be compromising?  Explain their importance. (200 Words)

1)First of all, I will offer my seat to that girl. It will prevent the person to make any advances to her. Secondly, I will ask the girl whether she wants to make any complaint against the person. If she wants to do that, I will make a call to the police. If she does not want to get involved into it, I will talk to other passengers and will try to pressurize the person to accept his mistake and not to repeat it in future. (But only if she has no objection as being a girl she might feel being antonyms). I will also encourage her to raise voice against this type of injustice which violates modesty of girl.

2)If I take no action I’ll violate the following values:

a) Respect for women­ It will become disrespect for dignity of women if I remain silent.

b) Honesty­ Closing eyes towards injustice amounts to dishonesty to myself.

c) Courage of conviction­ Standing up to misbehaviour will only be true courage of conviction against all such pervert people of society.

d) Empathy­ Though I can see misbehaviour being done, if I do not empathise with the girl, it is a loss of humanitarianism. Therefore, all such values must be upheld in daily life for a dignified living of self and others in society.

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Ethics Case Study: Five Types of Case Studies You Shouldn’t Miss Out On!

The General Studies IV paper of the UPSC Mains Exams mainly focuses on the three parts, i.e. Integrity, Aptitude, and Ethics. GS IV paper has two sections, Section A and Section B. Section B is based on an ethics case study and holds a weightage of 125 marks.

As a UPSC aspirant, you must write appropriate ethical answers to all the case studies asked. It is of utmost importance that you focus on some of the frequently appearing case studies on ethical issues, as this is a major category.

Business Ethics Case Studies

CASE STUDY 1

XYZ Limited is a multinational company which carries out a variety of businesses. This company is generating multiple jobs and also holds a large share base. To grow its branches, it has decided to develop a business in an undeveloped area. Being energy adept this project will save 15% of the production costs.

The government policy of no payment of tax for 5 years for those who invest in undeveloped areas goes hand in hand. But this project will disturb the natural habitat as well. So the residential people started protests. The company tried to manage the issue by making them understand the importance and benefits of this project. Despite all efforts of the company, the people residing in this area opted for the judiciary.

• What are the problems involved in this situation?
• What steps can be taken to satisfy the demands of the company and people who stay there?

Engineering Ethics Cases

CASE STUDY 2

An engineer gets employment in the prestigious chemical industry. The pay from this company is also decent. Within a short span, he discovers a kind of waste that has a high amount of toxicity, is dismissed in the nearby river illegally. This is causing many health-related issues for the people consuming this river water nearby.

He informs his fellow workers about this issue, but they suggest to be quiet. On one hand, he is the only working man in his family and can’t risk his job. On the other, his fellow mates’ suggestion feels wrong as the people are suffering from the consumption of toxic water. You seem an advisable person to him, so he asks for your help.

• What conflicts can you bring up for making him understand that being silent is not a correct option?
• What type of conduct will you suggest to him and why?

Also Read :  Best Books for UPSC Mains Exam Preparation: Here’s the UPSC Books List You were Looking For

Ethical Case Studies in Education

CASE STUDY 3

Currently, you are a Development Officer at a district level. Recently there has been a dispute in one of the villages of your district. The senior groups in this village do not want girls to go out of their houses to study, as it is unsafe. As per them, girls should marry at an early age with less education. The competition is increasing, and male employment is declining due to young girls thinking about their individuality, taking steps for education and freedom.

The situation is heated. Everyday discussions are around these issues. One day you are informed that girls were molested while returning from schools. This led to another huge argument. After fighting their guts, the seniors decided not to send girls to schools and avoid other families who send their girls to study.

• What action would you take to ensure safety and assure the education of these girls?
• How would you handle the patriarchal approach of the senior generation and spread a word of peace in the village? How would you deal with the senior generation’s patriarchal approach, and spread a word of peace in the village?

Professional Ethics Case Study

CASE STUDY 4

A staff member junior to you took a leave on account of her mother’s illness. She joined again a few days ago. Her mother is old as well as very sick. She has been handling both her mothers’ care adjustments and her job at the same time. At times she has to leave the workplace early or arrive late. This created extra pressure on her co-workers as well. You are the manager of this company.

One of her male co-workers stated that she is a female and should stay at home rather than work, which added more stress on her shoulders.

• As a manager, how would you handle the workload suspended on other co-workers?
• How would you use your professional integrity to correct the male co-worker?

Ethics in Finance Case Study

CASE STUDY 5

You are a chief officer in a ministry. As a result, you are allowed to take all the important decisions related to construction and road development. The ministry is all set to announce a huge road consignment. Ample care was taken by the officials to use government land majorly and to make less usage of private land. Also, with minimum deforestation, the road plan was finalized.

At the same time, one of the related ministers insisted that you must change the roadways in such a way that comes closer to his huge farmhouse. He also promises to buy a plot legally in your name after this realignment of this road. But this realignment project will cause a burden on government finances. Many agricultural lands fall under this realignment of the road. Also, hundreds of trees would be demolished for the same.

• What would you do in such a situation?
• What are the areas of arguments and improvements in this situation?
• What is your responsibility as a servant of the public?

The format in the above case studies is usually what is asked in Section B of the GS IV paper in the UPSC Exams. These case studies are of great significance and carry huge weightage in the civil service exams. Along with these case studies, many case studies like nonprofit ethics case study and administration ethics case study also have a good amount of weightage.

You must focus intensively on case studies on ethical issues to score brilliantly in your UPSC exams. Your answers should contain ethical terms and an appropriate approach. Practising various kinds of ethics case studies regularly for IAS will keep you intact with the approach you have to maintain. It will also develop a useful skill to write productive and efficient case study answers.

We here at UPSC Pathshala will keep bringing you important content related to UPSC exams. Stay updated with our regular blogs to come across useful tips, tricks, strategies, and suggestions for UPSC exams.

Also Read :  Sanjeev Newar’s UPSC Results Data Analysis Explained: Facts, Real Issue and Share of Reservation

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These different ethics case studies have helped me a lot for my preparation, will try to answer these questions in an ethical manner.

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How to Answer GS 4 Ethics Paper in UPSC Mains

Note : This is a free chapter from my book, Fundamentals of Essay and Answer Writing. I have previously published two excerpts on  GS-2  and  Introductions to Essay . The book has similar detailed chapters on Essay and answer writing for GS-1,2,3,4, including the Anthropology optional. You can get the book here.

GS-IV can be confounding. That’s because the questions in this paper tend to be subjective with no single correct answer. There can be multiple ways to answer a particular question and all of them might be right. Hence, though aspirants are clear about the syllabus, they are often confused about how to answer ethics questions. Given this subjectivity and confusion pertaining to this paper, it becomes challenging to come up with a convincing framework for answer writing. However, some broad principles can guide us in structuring our responses.

In this chapter, we will go through some of those guidelines that can help you argue your case more clearly and make your ethics answer compelling.

GS- IV syllabus can be divided into two segments:

I. Theory II. Case Studies

In this portion (and to some extent in case studies) questions are usually of three types. One, the definition of an ethical value; two, the significance of the value; and three, the application of that value in our daily lives. To put it simply, theory questions ask you to explain a value along with examples.

Let’s take the term integrity. Three questions that could be asked about it are:

• What do you understand by integrity?  [Definition of the value]
• What is the importance of integrity? In its absence, what are the consequences for an individual, society, country or in different walks of life?  [Significance of the value]
• What are the challenges in cultivating integrity? How do you overcome them?  [Application of the value]You may substitute other ethical values for integrity to guess the kind of questions you may face in the test. Anticipate such questions and formulate a basic answer to all ethical terms given in the syllabus. This exercise will help you immensely in preparing for the theory portion.

Prepare a Definition for Each of the Terms in the Syllabus

If the question pertains to a specific ethical value, you must introduce the answer with a crisp definition, followed by an example. The definition can be a personal one, reflecting what it means to you.

Example 1: Integrity

Integrity means being honest and doing the right thing even when nobody is watching you. It can be conveyed through a simple example: Stopping at a red light signal at 3am in the night, even when the entire road was clear. This is an example of my integrity.

Example 2: Leadership

Leadership is the act of motivating a group of people towards achieving a common goal. Leadership provides inspiration, motivation and a vision for the future. Eg: Mahatma Gandhi showed exemplary leadership to unite the country in the fight for independence.

Always prefer a simple definition and avoid jargon. Simplicity is clarity. Another useful way of introducing your answers is by starting with an interesting quote and then proceeding to define the term.

Example 1: When you are answering a question on Emotional Intelligence, it can be started with the following quote:  “As much as 80% of adult success comes from EQ” – Daniel Goleman

Example 2: A question on RTI can be introduced with this quote:  “RTI is the master key to Good Governance” – 2nd ARC

Value mapping

In this exercise, you think of an eminent personality and then map him or her onto the values they stood for.

Below is a table with some examples of prominent leaders. You can add other values that you think match with a particular leader and repeat this exercise for all eminent persons.

As you map values onto the list of the most important leaders, philosophers, or administrators, it will become easier to recollect and quote relevant thinkers in your answers to give weight to your Ethical analysis.

Flow charts and Diagrams

For some topics such as Emotional Intelligence, Good Governance, and Civil Service Values, illustrating their features through flowcharts and diagrams makes your answers concise and neat. Prepare these flowcharts and diagrams beforehand and incorporate them in your mock tests so that it becomes easier to use them in the final test.

Make a database of real life examples

Examples are what make your answer come alive. They not only make the concept clearer, but also convey how the ethical principles and conflicts manifest in real life. Without them, an ethics answer would be a pointless theoretical rambling. Remember that the examiner is not evaluating how much you know about ethics. They want to see how well you can apply those principles in your day-to-day life. For this, examples are crucial.

Some important sources from which to collect these examples are:

• Newspapers — When you read the newspaper, look out for interesting incidents and news that can be used in your ethics paper. There are tons of examples that are reported everyday. For example, when you read about ‘Selfie with Daughter’ campaign, you must be able to correlate with ‘Social persuasion’ topic of the syllabus. Or, say, a newsarticle about civil servants working in remote districts of the country and how they are transforming them for the better. Even happenings in international affairs can be used as examples. Think of Cyber espionage, Syrian refugee crisis, Snowden controversy, Cambridge Analytica scandal and the moral issues pertaining to big tech companies like Facebook and Google. Such everyday examples are numerous, all you have to do is to link it with the syllabus and note them down for future reference.
• Personal Life (School, College, Family) : Littering on the street, jumping a traffic signal, cheating on a test, lying to your parents, shirking work at office. You can think of many examples from your everyday life to quote in your answers. Also, don’t restrict yourself to your own perspective. For instance, there might have been cases of extreme ragging in a certain college and the administration might have turned a blind eye to it in order to protect its image. You can discuss such ethical violations from other’s perspective which has come to your knowledge.
• Workplace : Every profession has its peculiar set of ethical dilemmas. So when you are brainstorming for examples, think of doctors, lawyers, teachers, engineers, civil servants etc and imagine the moral challenges they might come across in their respective professions. For instance, a lawyer defending a client who is guilty faces an ethical dilemma. An SDM who has to protect government lands and remove encroachments might, in the process, make some poor families homeless. Once you brainstorm, you will have a rich repository of such examples to cite from in your theory answers and case studies.
• From the Lives of Leaders, Philosophers, and Administrators:  Anecdotes, actions, stories, and quotes from the lives of eminent personalities can also be used as examples to drive your argument. Even mythology can be a rich resource to collect good examples. Lincoln’s fight against slavery is an example of moral courage. Dr. Kalam’s commitment to space and nuclear field is a testament to his professional competence.
• Crowdsourcing:  Many online portals such as Insights, IASBABA, ForumIAS, CivilsDaily run a daily module for answer writing practice. Sift through them and you will find some really good answers other people are writing. Reading these can help you build a blueprint for makes an excellent example and prepare your own list.The point of this exercise is to have enough examples for different kinds of situations so that you can easily pick the right one in the right context without wasting much time in the exam hall.

II. Case studies

More than the theory part, case studies bring out our ethical dilemmas and logical reasoning sharply. Done well, they can propel your score beyond 110. Gone wrong, they may restrict your marks to under 90.

The purpose of case studies is to make you ready for the field experience. Once you enter the civil service, you may face situations in which competing values clash. Would you strictly adhere to rules or stay flexible at times to help the needy? Would you suspend an erring subordinate, thereby curtailing his income, or overlook his misdeeds and close it with a warning, considering his dependent family? These are the real-life situations a civil servant confronts on a daily basis. Through case studies, the examiner can understand how you might behave if you were in a similar situation. So, one of the foremost tips (and one of the obvious) is to put yourself in the shoes of an administrator, and consider yourself a problem solver. This makes the whole exercise enjoyable and inevitably your answers exude passion and cogent articulation.

In this component, we will go through some pointers which can help you answer the case studies well.

A standard framework for answers

Having a concrete framework ready while answering gives a sense of flow, coherence and structure to your case study. Else, it

faces the risk of steering away from the question and exceeding the word limit. Therefore, it’s helpful to categorise your answer under the following subheadings:

•  Subject Matter : Briefly in a line or two, capture the entire case study. E.g. In a case Study dealing with an IAS aspirant heading for Interview but sees an accident on the way, subject Matter could be: Dilemma between achieving career ambition and responding to the accident as a good samaritan.

•  Stakeholders : List down the set of people who would be directly and indirectly affected in the case. For instance, you are the CEO of a PSU which is facing severe unionism and strikes, affecting company profits. Stakeholders are yourself, employees, government, public at large, local families, investors, and shareholders. You may also represent this information through a spoke and wheel diagram.

•  EthicalDilemmas/KeyPrinciples :Enumeratetheethicalissues in the case study. This is a crucial part of your answer since you explicitly mention the conflicting values you face in your judgement. For instance, in a case involving mining in a tribal inhabited forest, ethical issues will be: development vs. nature conservation; public interest vs protection of tribal land rights; economic growth vs equitable prosperity. Mention these issues in bullet points, sequentially.

•  Options Available to You : Write 3-4 choices you have in the scenario, along with the pros and cons of choosing each alternative. Two choices inevitably will be the extreme options, which are generally avoided as your choice. The remaining ones should be the practical courses of action you wish to pursue.

•  Choosing an Option : Under this subheading, write about the course of action which can be a combination of the above mentioned options. It should be followed by clear articulation of your arguments (more on this below) along with quotes and examples to substantiate your point of view. The best option to choose in any given situation is not the most original but the most practical. If you come up with a spectacular innovative idea, but isn’t easily implementable, it’s as good as doing nothing. Search for options that can be executed amidst the constraints a govt servant faces. For instance, let’s say in your district, tribals are agitating against a mining company planning to raze the forests and explore the mineral wealth. In such a case, a decision to put a complete ban or a moratorium on mining in your district is impractical and sub-optimal. By

prohibiting any form of mining, you will not help the cause of tribals who would have benefited from the new employment opportunities in the region. So choose an option in which you balance competing interests.

Articulation

Articulation is the beating heart of a case study answer. This follows ‘choosing an option’ section we discussed above.

In this segment, you reason out why you chose a particular option and elaborate on the further of course of action. More than the option you choose, it is the reasoning that led you to choose that particular option that matters more. It’s helpful to narrate from the first person point of view: Use I, wherever possible. It will personalise your answer and therefore carries the weight of a good argument. But, use your discretion based on your experiences on which perspective you want to use.

The course of action you wish to pursue must be mentioned in detail, enumerating the steps clearly. Put yourself in the shoes of the administrator, dive into the details, and make your answer as vivid and concrete as possible. Let me illustrate this through the following examples:

Consider a case study dealing with gender issues in the district. Don’t write something vague saying you will ensure women empowerment in the area. Describe concrete steps by writing on

the lines of: I will try to set up a livelihood opportunity based on their skills, help them produce marketable goods, procure that material in all govt departments, and then encourage local private sector to buy these goods. Quote examples of successful models like SEWA, Prajwala, Lijjat papad etc.

In a case relating to negligent monitoring of government schemes or projects, instead of saying I will collaborate with NGOs to ensure third party accountability, a better way of conveying would be: “I will speak to the reputed local NGOs, hold a meeting with them to take their views. I will give them specific inputs as to when they can go and inspect the schemes and project works discreetly and report to me in person or through WhatsApp.” You can substantiate with a real life example how such Socialcops played a terrific role in effective implementation of Ujjwala Yojana.

Consider a hypothetical case in which you are posted as the DM of a resource-poor district that has a history of vector-borne disease outbreaks. Monsoon season is approaching and you have to prepare for the challenge with limited funds at your disposal. You can narrate the following concrete steps. “Based on the previous years’ data, I will rank specific blocks in terms of their vulnerability and prioritise these hotspots for immediate attention. Fogging shall be done and anti-mosquito nets shall be distributed to these blocks on priority. Intense training sessions will be provided for ASHAs to help them detect of malaria/dengue promptly. I will use the District Mineral Fund (if available) and local CSR funds to procure rapid diagnostic kits. I shall designate every Friday as Dry-day where households in the district will be encouraged to drain out

stagnant water along with conducting a weekly review meeting with all health workers from village level to district level to assess preparedness and correct any issues.”

For a case on eradicating child marriages in a remote area, instead of saying “I will ensure awareness on the subject and adherence to law”, write— “I will take part in bi-weekly Gram Sabha sessions and make the community take a pledge against child marriages. I shall encourage rallies by school children and officers of all government departments. To monitor the on ground situation, I shall depute my officers as special officers responsible for set of blocks where they will tour, discreetly inspect and report back to me. I will monitor complaints and grievances on the issue and ensure a resolution within 30 days.” It helps to mention Govt. schemes like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana or slogans such as Meri Beti-Mera Garv.

In a case where you, as the Chief, must change the work culture in your office— “At the start of every month, I will conduct a one-on-one meeting with each of my officers, take them into confidence and set mutually agreed goals. At the end of the month, I shall review each officer’s performance against these preset goals and rate them as per objective criteria. Best performers shall be given a letter of appreciation under my letterhead and put a copy of it on the notice board for others to see. The laggards shall be given a warning and if they don’t heed, I will initiate disciplinary action as per the rules to ensure deterrence.”

I don’t mean to say these are the only solutions to these case studies. The point is whatever be your decision, be concrete and specific. It will strike the examiner as practical and implementable.

Towards the end of your answer, quoting a relevant thinker’s opinion or quote gives credence to your decision. For instance, if the ethical issue is about professional integrity, E Sreedharan and his leadership in executing a complex rail project should be quoted as an example. Or let’s take a case study in which you are faced with a decision whether to give clearance to an important road project through a National Park (thereby helping the government save taxpayer’s money) or devising an alternate, but more expensive option (thereby preserving the ecosystem, but hurting govt finances). If you opt for the second option, you can stress on the importance of environmental economics and end with a quote saying:

As environmentalist Wangari Maathai said,  “We need to promote development that does not destroy our environment”.

Just the addition of the above sentence makes the argument more powerful. Your arguments now have the moral backing of an eminent personality. The value mapping exercise we did for the theory section will be helpful here. So for every case study, try and add such relevant quotes to substantiate your points. It will show that you not only read the works of those eminent people, but also understand how to apply their teachings in real-life.

Observe Time Limit

There is a tendency among aspirants to dedicate disproportionate time to case studies. But, remember that they are worth only 120 marks. Irrespective of whether you start with theory portion or the case studies, dedicate time proportionate to their weightage for marks. So for case studies, you should spend the maximum of 90 minutes i.e. 15 minutes per case study.

Further, you should realise that UPSC can change how it distributes marks across questions, but it cannot change the 250 marks assigned to a paper (without prior notice). So, whatever be the number of questions or distribution of marks across those questions, your target must be to write 80 marks worth of answers in the first hour, another 80 in the second hour and 90 in the final hour. This translates to 40 marks in the initial 30 minutes. So whether you start with Part A or Part B, aim to finish questions worth 40 marks in the first half-hour and then repeat this process. Always have an eye on the clock and if you think you are falling behind time, accelerate.

Gain Adequate Practice

Ethics paper has an emphasis on articulation and practical examples, which comes only with adequate practice. Besides, case studies across the years tend to have similar themes and ideas. So answering a lot of these beforehand will give you a sense of confidence to tackle any type of question.

III. Sample Answers

Q. How could social influence and persuasion contribute to the success of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan? (10 Marks)

Social influence is the process through which a person’s attitudes, opinions, or behaviour are changed through social communication. Persuasion is a method of social influence.

Social influence and persuasion contribute to Swacch Bharat Abhiyan (SBA) through:

•  Behavioural change among all the stakeholders : By changing attitude toward open defecation in the society through campaigns and media. E.g: Darwaza Band campaign and rallies by school children to build awareness

•  Social pressure and peer pressure : By naming and shaming people who don’t have toilets, they will be forced to build one.

E.g: Children persuading their parents, Gram sabhas reading out names of households without toilets. Positive peer pressure in the form of prizes and rewards for building and using toilets can also help people change.

•  Role-Model effect:  When celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan persuade for SBA, it can bring about a change in orthodox opinions about open defecation.

•  Community Ownership : Through Gram Swachhdhoots, SBA can be made community driven to make it . Such persuasive methods were very successful in Bangladesh.

•  Healthy competition among stakeholders : through initiatives like Swacch Survekshan.

Thus social Influence and persuasion techniques, by effectively targeting the social psyche and behaviour can accelerate the goal of Swacch Bharat Mission.

Q. You are aspiring to become an IAS officer and you have cleared various stages and now you have been selected for the personal interview. On the day of the interview, on the way to the venue you saw an accident where a mother and child who happen to be your relatives were badly injured. They needed immediate help. What would you have done in such a situation? Justify your action. (25 Marks)

Subject matter:  Dilemma between achieving career ambition Vs responding to accident as a good samaritan.

Stakeholders involved:  The mother, child, me, my family, society at large and the UPSC.

Ethical dilemmas :

• Personal ambitions vs. Moral responsibility to help others • Being punctual to the interview vs Saving life • Personal and family’s dream to be civil servant vs Moral

obligation to relatives

Options Available

Final Course of action

I shall choose the last option because I have a moral responsibility to help the victims, and a personal responsibility to myself, my family and my career. I worked hard to reach the interview stage, so it makes sense to balance both these obligations.

So my immediate response would be to quickly move the victims to my cab. Using Google Maps, I’ll check for nearby hospitals and find the shortest route possible to get there. I will call the hospital and ask them to arrange emergency services by the time we reach.

Along the way, I will also call the relatives’ family and ask them to reach the hospital. I will admit the victim to the hospital and pay any charges, if required. If it gets late for the relatives to reach, I will entrust the cab driver to kindly look after her, pay him his waiting charges and proceed to the interview.

In the meantime, I will also check if I can reach out to anyone who can inform the interview panel about my situation and that I may reach late. If I do get delayed, I will make every attempt to convince the authorities involved as to the reasons why it happened. As soon as the interview is done, I will come back to the hospital and check on the victims’ condition and help them in anyway I can.

As remarked by Gandhiji  “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” . By helping people, we not only make the world a better place but also stay true to our conscience. It leads to harmony, balancing social good with personal ambition.

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41 thoughts on “ How to Answer GS 4 Ethics Paper in UPSC Mains ”

Hey anudeep, thank you so much for the invaluable insights you have provided us in your book. Its a wonderful piece of your hard work. I got so much to learn from it. Thank you so much. God bless you 🙂

Glad to hear that. Thank you!

क्या आपकी पुस्तक हिंदी में या फिर English में

Sir please can you tell me that this is ebook or it is hard copy?Will it be delivered to our home?

Sir meru guidance esthara

Sir how you learn fluent english Please give reply sir

respected sir , i have made the payment of 389 for essay answer writing book and videos but still it is showing to pay the amount . how should i access the book ? plz reply it would be helpful for me . thanking u regards maithili

Anna nv super anna I am full inspired

Sir which pen you used??

Sir start the YouTube channel for village people’s

Meru e book videos freega endhuku cheyatam ledhu, afford cheyaleni aspirants me valuble suggestions ela telusukuntaru ?

Kya main BA karke CSE apply karskta ho Apki 5 tips aur konsi konsi books Leno chahiye…

Good Evening sir, I want to write GS paper in English and take Hindi Literature. It’s possible or not.

Yes,Of course. Explanation: If your optional is a literature paper then you have to write those optional papers in that very language. Except them, all papers, Essay and G.S I, II, III, IV are to be written only in Hindi or English. So, You can choose English as your medium and Hindi Literature as your optionals.

Wonderful Sir Salute to your hard work and perseverance You are a true IAS officer,dedicated to Steve your country’s people.

Sir. 1.May I know which online platform for prelims and mains test series is the good one ? 2 .whether to join integrated prelims and mains or separate prelims and separate mains test series? 3.what is the right time to join ?

Sir I am unable to open the video lectures of your book..as those videos are unsupported in my mobile…sir Its a …….please send me those videos in my gmail account as your each video and lecture is very important to me and all the upsc aspirants..

Really it is very helpful for the beginners.. Thank you so much anudeep sir.

for beginners it will give full clarity on how be a good thinker and on track aspirants it will give value addition. we good to see u providing this enormous information which u are giving for aspirants. THANK YOU BRO..KEEP ON GIVE THIS BOOST TO ASPIRANTS

Sir Thankyou very much for this book .Immensely helpful.Sir is your book enough for upsc preparation if we understand it and like this way.

Will you release new editions in the upcoming years?? Or is this book useful for upsc 2022 please reply sir….

Sir is this only e-book or can I get its hard copy ? If yes can I know how to get it .

Thanks a ton sir! What an exaplanation you have presented before us. I cleared all doubts and ambiguities related to paper 4. thanks again sir .love you sir..

Thank you sir

Tnq so much resp. Sir..! Valuable guidance for us…To clear all doubts regarding paper IV.🙏

Hello Sir, Your ethics notes are very concise and effective and I am grateful to you for providing these notes. One thing i can’t make out is the LMR you’ve written at certain places with an highlighter. Please decode this puzzle so that I can be at peace.😭🙏

‘Last Minute Revision’ 🙂

Thanks a lot sir ji one day i will join in your group

Thank u very much sir 😊 such a wonderful explanation for the beginers like me. Keep going in writing such awesome books like this. Actually sreaching for good network ,I think this is the correct platform for not only me but also all the asparents … Thank u sir from the bottom of the heat 😁

Hello Sir, but sir from where i get all quotes.

Your advice is solid. This is amazingly articulated with detailed suggestions. Thank you so much for this. Hope you’re doing well as an IAS officer, best wishes.

Sir it’s an honour to have read this chapter! Thanks a lot for publishing the book! I’ve placed my order and am eagerly awaiting. Thanks once again, Sir. I believe that you are a blessing to all the aspirants. I hope to clear the exam with flying colors and meet you in person to share my respect and admiration for you! I’m from Hyderabad and it feels so proud to be associated with the land where you come from. Believe me, coming from the bottom of my heart. 🙏😊

A warm good afternoon sir! the way you present your answers really awesome sir. sir my small request you to present upsc prelims and mains best books to aspirants ,to clear upsc.

Thank you so much sir for giving well knowledge about answer writing in UPSC mains iam froam Warangal I hope that iam become a civil servant with your blessings sir..

I have to appear in CSE in 2024…so when should I start preparing Ethics..?

Sir please start YouTube channel sir for village people sir

If above case studies come true in life, should I persue the same as given in elaboration. And if I got delayed, I would be entertained for the interview…if “yes” its ok and if not… I can go with court help..

Now it’s clear that how to score good in ethics. Thank you so much for this. 😊

Hello sir , Good evening

Sir i want to write my gs and essay papers in regional language. and going to choose literature of that language too. But the thing is authentic material is not available in this language …so i have decided to read in eng. And translate in my notes in my language….is it advisable ?? Or should i improve my english writing skills ? Or can i reach that level of eng. Writing in a year ?

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Ethics Strategy for UPSC 2024 by AIR 104 and Sukanya ma’am | Analysis of UPSC Mains’23 | Register FREE for Clarity with Rankers Webinar

How to cover UPSC Ethics GS 4 Syllabus? Theories, Answer writing and case studies for UPSC 2024?

Step by step strategy & approach by air 104, vaibhav priya and sukanya rana ma’am | register for webinar.

The UPSC Ethics paper, for many aspirants, remains an enigma. Navigating its vast syllabus while trying to marry philosophical subjective concepts with practical administrative dilemmas is no easy task.

The challenge lies not only in understanding these ethical tenets but in applying them to real-world scenarios that an administrator faces.

The art of answer writing for the Ethics paper isn’t merely about showcasing knowledge but weaving a profound understanding of ethical underpinnings into realistic administrative problems.

Amidst these complexities, a lot of aspirants are left with limited awareness of the evolving trend and pattern of the UPSC Ethics paper. The most pragmatic approach to tackle this? A granular analysis of the UPSC Ethics 2023 paper to pave your way for 2024.

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Zoom Meeting Link will be sent via your registered email address.

Who should attend the webinar by Sukanya ma’am ?

• Aspirants who aim to understand the core essence and demands of the UPSC Ethics paper.
• Individuals struggling with Ethics case studies and Ethics GS Paper 4 in general
• Candidates looking to score 140+ in Ethics and thus boost their overall score in the Mains.
• Freshers looking to kickstart their Ethics preparation with a solid foundation and a clear direction.
• Aspirants seeking Framework for Ethics case studies.
• Aspirants are unable to understand and fill critical gaps in their Ethics paper preparation.
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You’re seeking proven strategies to streamline your UPSC preparation and need guidance on staying committed to your IAS goals in the long run.

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In this interactive session, you will:

• Detailed analysis and comprehensive breakdown of UPSC Mains 2023 Ethics GS paper 4
• In-depth understanding of What kind of case studies are asked in the paper and how to tackle them. Recent trends in Ethics paper
• Strategies to target and achieve a 130+ score in the UPSC Mains Ethics paper.
• Proven strategies to navigate the Ethics syllabus and apply philosophical tenets to practical situations.
• 10 Best Practices Followed by IAS Toppers in their UPSC Ethics Case Studies Approach
• Techniques to craft compelling and impactful answers, especially for case studies.
• Insights into the evolving pattern of the Ethics paper and adaptive methodologies to stay updated.
• Insightful tips and tactics to decode and address complex Ethics case studies
• Framework for Ethics case studies developed by Sukanya ma’am and perfected with UPSC toppers.
• Personal anecdotes and experiences from Vaibhav Priya, AIR 104, which offer a holistic view of the paper’s demands.
• Interactive Q&A session

Introducing the maestro behind our Ethics program –  Sukanya Rana ma’am . A guiding light to over 100 rankers, including the shining stars of AIR 22, AIR 16, AIR 28, AIR 32, and notably, AIR 48. Remember the incredible journey of AIR 48 who catapulted his Ethics score from 48 to a whopping 133 marks? That transformation had Sukanya ma’am’s mentorship written all over it.

Sukanya Ma’am has firsthand experience of 4 mains and 2 interviews with UPSC. She has also appeared in the State PCS interview. Before she worked as an officer in a public sector bank and now as a Mentor at Civilsdaily, she aims to guide future aspirants in finding success. Sukanya Ma’am has scored consistently 100+ marks in ethics and in 2019 her marks were 140 in GS 4.

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Post-webinar you will get your Personalized study plan, important PDFs, timetable framework, and mentorship session.

Based on your UPSC prep situation (working aspirant, full-time aspirant), your learning style, previous attempts, and other such factors, we will be preparing and sharing a personalized PDF study plan for you.

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Ethics Notes Which You Shouldn’t Miss!

This post is a compilation of our most viewed notes on Ethics, which we think our readers should not miss.

ClearIAS Ethics Course for UPSC CSE (Video Course)

If you are looking for a video course to learn Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude faster, ClearIAS has a best-selling course on it.

Click here to learn more about the ClearIAS Ethics Course for UPSC CSE.

You can easily understand the concepts, philosophy, and the right approach to solving case studies if you join ClearIAS Ethics Video Course.

Learn Ethics: Must Read Articles

If you are searching for ClearIAS online notes for ethics, we recommend you read the article “ How to study the Ethics Paper for IAS Mains ” first, and then go through the below articles.

• Ethics – Definition and Concept Made Easy; With Examples
• Dimensions of Ethics – Easy-to-Learn Infographics
• Values – Concepts Made Easy with Examples
• Attitude – Concepts Made Simple; With Examples
• Public Service Values: Important Terms
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel – Biography, Facts, Life, and Contributions to Modern India
• The Crisis of Conscience: Ethical Decision-Making
• Corporate Governance
• Sevottam Model
• Euthanasia – Arguments in Favour and Against

Case Studies

• Ethics Case Study: Personal Ethics vs Professional Ethics
• Ethics Case Study: Change in Eligibility Criteria
• Ethics Case Study: Your Son In Trouble
• Ethics Case Study: Juvenile Justice Act and Heinous Crimes

Ethics Notes (Latest Updates)

• ClearIAS Ethics Notes (New Study Materials)

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Reader Interactions

November 13, 2018 at 8:20 am

Hiii mam/ sir I’m renu and I’m hindi medium student so I request pls aap mujhe hindi main quize questions and notes provide kr skte ho….

February 3, 2019 at 1:27 pm

Very Useful Application… Thank you ClearIAS and It’s Team. Thanks again

March 19, 2019 at 11:39 am

Mene upsc Ka form fill Kiya hai please suggest me which book is best for prelims

April 10, 2019 at 9:30 am

Sir maney upsc ka Form bara h tho prelims k liye kon si books study karu

April 19, 2019 at 11:12 am

Sir maje upsc main ke leye short book btaya jaye or options paper. Gs paper ke leye questions bank le

May 7, 2019 at 9:19 pm

So very usefull application which helps in the study for upsc students…. These site provides all and everything’s about upsc concept…… Very best action of this apps is that this apps had provided book writter name…

May 9, 2019 at 8:06 am

is this notes cover all topic according to upsc syllabus

May 10, 2019 at 10:40 pm

https://www.bing.com/translato you can translate this page into hindi or Any otjer Indian language through above web address..all the best

May 13, 2019 at 9:52 pm

Sir can u plz make me available previous years ethics solved papers of upsc

May 14, 2019 at 1:04 am

Where is print pdf option?

June 12, 2019 at 10:44 am

Sir please can you provide this notes in PDF format

June 21, 2019 at 5:40 am

Thank you.clear ias team.

December 17, 2019 at 9:09 am

I have no word to express my sincere gratitude to the entire team of this esteemed clearias family members for such wonderful job.You all made our struggle and journey half-done by providing such ready made notes which are lucid to grasp and easy to understand. Thank you!!

March 10, 2023 at 7:44 am

how to download the notes

February 11, 2020 at 1:27 am

Dear clearias,

Please provide the ethics notes in pdf format then it will be really helpful for a lot of candidates.

Regards, Asmita Chakraborty.

August 14, 2020 at 12:48 am

Is this enough for ethics…please tell me…

August 14, 2020 at 12:49 am

Is this enough for ethics??? Please tell me

May 19, 2023 at 2:25 pm

Dear clear IAS Would you please send pdf format of ethics notes

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UPSC Ethics Syllabus - Mains GS Paper 4 Syllabus PDF

By vajiram & ravi.

The UPSC Ethics syllabus covers a wide range of topics that revolve around the concept of ethics in public administration.This GS Paper-IV aims to assess the candidate's understanding of ethical principles, moral values, and their ability to apply ethical considerations in various situations.

UPSC General Studies Paper 4: Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

The Ethics paper in the UPSC Mains examination is part of the General Studies Paper IV (GS Paper IV). It is designed to evaluate the ethical and moral dimensions of a candidate's personality and decision-making abilities. The paper aims to assess how a candidate is likely to behave in different professional and public service situations. 

The questions may adopt a case study approach to evaluate these aspects.

UPSC Ethics Syllabus

The Ethics Syllabus in the UPSC Mains examination is crucial for assessing a candidate's character, values, and ethical decision-making abilities. It emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior in public administration and the civil services. Aspirants are expected to approach this paper with a strong understanding of ethical concepts and their practical application in the context of public service.

Structure of UPSC Ethics Syllabus

The UPSC Mains Examination Ethics paper, also known as General Studies Paper IV or GS Paper IV, is designed to assess the ethical and moral dimensions of a candidate's personality and their ability to apply ethical considerations in various situations. The structure of the UPSC Ethics paper typically follows this pattern:

Section-A: Ethics and Human Interface (125 marks)

• Understanding ethics in human interactions.
• Emotional intelligence and its application in administration and governance.
• Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers to ethical thought.
• Dimensions of ethics and values in public administration.
• Ethical issues in international relations and funding.

Section-B: Attitude (125 marks)

• Attitude: Content, structure, function, its influence, and relation with thought and behavior.
• Moral and political attitudes.
• Social influence and persuasion.
• Personal and professional ethics.
• Emotional intelligence and its components.

Case Studies: In addition to the direct concept-related questions, the paper includes case studies that test the candidate's application of ethical principles and values to real-life situations. These case studies involve decision-making in complex and practical scenarios, where the candidate is required to demonstrate their ethical judgment, integrity, and aptitude for problem-solving.

The total marks allotted to the UPSC Ethics paper are 250 marks , and it is mandatory for all candidates to attempt all the questions. The paper aims to evaluate not only the candidate's theoretical knowledge of ethics but also their ability to apply ethical considerations in practical scenarios.

Candidates are expected to provide well-reasoned, balanced, and coherent answers to the questions. The answers should reflect a strong ethical foundation and an understanding of the principles and values that govern public administration. Clarity of thought, critical thinking, and a comprehensive understanding of the subject are essential for scoring well in the UPSC Ethics paper.

FAQS on UPSC Ethics Syllabus

What is the ethics syllabus for upsc.

The ethics syllabus for UPSC Mains Examination includes topics related to ethics, integrity, and aptitude. It covers areas such as understanding ethics in human interactions, emotional intelligence, contributions of moral thinkers, values in public administration, moral and political attitudes, and more. The paper also includes case studies to test the application of ethical principles in practical situations. The total marks allotted to the UPSC Ethics paper are 250 marks, and it is an integral part of the General Studies Paper IV in the UPSC Mains examination.

What is the syllabus of GS 4 Ethics?

The syllabus of GS 4 or General Studies Paper IV for ethics includes topics related to ethics, integrity, and aptitude. It covers areas such as understanding ethics in human interactions, emotional intelligence, contributions of moral thinkers, values in public administration, moral and political attitudes, and more. The paper also includes case studies to test the application of ethical principles in practical situations. The total marks allotted to the GS 4 ethics paper are 250 marks, and it is an important part of the UPSC Mains Examination.

Which book is good for UPSC ethics?

For UPSC ethics preparation, several books are recommended, but one of the most popular and widely used books is "Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude" by G. Subba Rao and P.N. Roy Chowdhury. This book comprehensively covers the ethics syllabus, including case studies, moral philosophies, and ethical decision-making. Additionally, "Lexicon for Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude" by Niraj Kumar is another valuable resource for UPSC aspirants to enhance their understanding of ethical concepts and principles. As always, candidates should supplement their preparation with official UPSC study materials and practice solving previous year's question papers to excel in the ethics paper.

How many days to complete ethics for UPSC?

The time required to complete ethics preparation for GS IV Ethics Paper varies from candidate to candidate based on their prior knowledge and study pace. Generally, it is advisable to dedicate at least 3-4 weeks for in-depth study and practice of the ethics syllabus. However, candidates should design a study plan that suits their individual needs and allows sufficient time for understanding ethical concepts, solving case studies, and revising the topics. Consistent and focused preparation is key to excel in the ethics paper in the UPSC Mains examination.

© 2024 Vajiram & Ravi. All rights reserved

Current Affairs 2nd April 2024 for UPSC Prelims Exam

StudyIQ offers Daily Current Affairs and Important News for UPSC Exam 2024. Check here Current Affairs of 2nd April 2024 for UPSC Exam and State PSC Exam.

Table of Contents

Context: The Supreme Court has sent a notice to the Election Commission (EC) regarding a writ petition demanding mandatory cross-verification of EVM counts with VVPAT slips.

About Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail  (VVPAT)

• The Indian government notified the amended Conduct of Elections Rules in August 2013, enabling the Election Commission to use VVPAT alongside Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
• The first practical implementation of VVPAT occurred during the byelection for Noksen Assembly Constituency in Nagaland on September 4, 2013.
• However, it gained widespread attention and adoption during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections when it was used across various constituencies.

• When a voter casts their vote using an EVM, the VVPAT prints a paper slip.
• This slip contains the name of the candidate and their election symbol.
• The voter can visually verify the printed slip through a transparent window for a brief period.
• After verification, the slip is automatically cut and drops into a sealed drop box within the VVPAT machine.
• The VVPAT serves as an independent verification system, allowing voters to ensure that their vote was recorded correctly.
• In case of any dispute or recount, the paper audit trail can be used as a legal ballot.
• VVPAT adds an extra layer of confidence to the electoral process by providing a physical record that voters can verify.
• It acts as a safeguard against potential fraud, malfunction, or tampering with electronic results.
• While electronic memory can be altered without detection, a paper VVPAT ensures transparency and accountability.

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India’s Defence Exports

Context: India’s defence exports reached an all-time high level of ₹21,083 crore in financial year 2023-24 with a  32.5% growth in FY24 compared to the previous financial year.

More In News

• The defence exports had grown by 31 times in the past 10 years.
• The rise in exports was led by an increase in global interest in Indian defence products like LCA-Tejas, light combat helicopters, aircraft carriers, and more.
• This was an impressive growth of 32.5% over the previous fiscal year.
• India is exporting its locally manufactured defence products to over 85 countries, showcasing the prowess of its defence industry.
• Multiple sophisticated defence systems including 155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Guns, Brahmos Missiles, etc, have been exported to other countries.

Examples, Data & Case Studies for Value Addition

• JalSevak founded by Abhijit Sathe is a system which recycles Greywater originating from residential and commercial facilities.
• Ethics (GS 4): Two brothers from Mumbai launched ‘Abeer’ with the aim to save the Bhil tribe’s dying art of making natural Holi colours using flowers.

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I, Sakshi Gupta, am a content writer specializing in crafting SEO-optimized content to empower students aiming for UPSC, PSC, and other competitive exams. My objective is to provide clear, concise, and informative content that caters to your exam preparation needs. I strive to make my content not only informative but also engaging, keeping you motivated throughout your journey!

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Write a short note on deontological ethics

Topic: Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions;

7. Write a short note on deontological ethics. (150 words)

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Reference: Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude by Lexicon Publications.

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4, Key Demand of the question: To write about deontological ethics in detail. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Begin by defining deontology. Body: Explain that Deontology is duty ethics, so it compares a person’s actions against some duty or imperative. Discuss the rationale behind it. Write about the significance of the deontological ethics and with suitable illustrations explain it. Write about its critique.  Conclusion: Completed by summarising their importance.

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