Mahatma Gandhi: The Moral Compass for Public Servants
Q: Which eminent personality has influenced your moral view the most? List his/her moral values and discuss how you will apply them as a public servant.
The eminent personality who has most profoundly influenced my moral view is Mahatma Gandhi. His philosophy transcends personal ethics, providing a foundational Ethical Framework for governance. For an OPSC aspirant, Gandhi’s life serves as a practical guide to balancing Power with Self-Restraint.
1. Core Moral Values
- Satyagraha (Truth-force): The unwavering pursuit of Satya (Truth) and Ahimsa (Non-violence) in every action.
- Sarvodaya (Upliftment of All): Ensuring the Welfare of the entire community, prioritizing the Marginalized.
- Trusteeship: The belief that Public Office is not a source of privilege but a Sacred Trust held for the people.
2. Application in Public Service
As a public servant, I will apply these values through:
- The Talisman: Before making a decision on Resource Allocation, I will ask if it benefits the "poorest and weakest" person in Odisha.
- Non-Maleficence: Adopting Ahimsa by ensuring that Administrative Actions do not cause Institutional Harassment to citizens.
- Probity: Living with Aparigraha (non-possession) to ensure Zero Tolerance toward corruption and the misuse of the Exchequer's funds.
Definition of Key Term
Non-Maleficence: The ethical obligation to "Do No Harm" intentionally. Example: A civil servant practicing non-maleficence ensures that a Developmental Project does not result in the Involuntary Displacement of families without a robust Rehabilitation Plan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gandhi’s values turn Bureaucracy into Service. By internalizing Constitutional Morality through a Gandhian lens, an administrator ensures Substantive Justice. For Viksit Odisha, these values are the "Steel Frame" of the soul, ensuring that Governance remains Compassionate and Value-Driven.
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