Mains PYQs - GS-IV (2025) (Q. 4 & 5)

4. (a) “For any kind of social re-engineering by successfully implementing welfare schemes, a civil servant must use reason and critical thinking in an ethical framework.” Justify this statement with suitable examples. (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction:

Describe reason and critical thinking in an ethical framework.

Main Body

Why are reason and critical thinking essential?

• Understanding the root cause of the issue
• Evidence-based implementation
• Predict consequences
• Building public trust
• Balancing competing interests.

Role of ethical framework

• Justice and equity
• Empathy
• Integrity
• Dignity
• Accountability
• Rights-based approach
• No political and personal bias

Examples

• MGNREGA wage rates balanced to avoid agricultural labour migration.
• Implementing infrastructure/land-pooling schemes - relies on the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act.
• Consent-based data use in health IDs.

Conclusion:

Give a balanced conclusion.

Ethical framework is the broader framework for civil servants, in that reason and critical thinking act as a major pillar.

(b) What are the major teachings of Mahavir? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world. (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction:

Describe Mahavira and his major teachings - His core philosophy is summarised by the five great vows and Triratna.

Main Body

Major teachings of Mahavir & contemporary relevance

• Ahimsa (Non-violence) – Russia-Ukraine & Iran-US war.
• Satya (Truthfulness) – Fake news, hate speech.
• Asteya (Non-stealing) – Corruption, exploitation, hoarding.
• Aparigraha (Non-possession)
• Brahmacharya (Chastity) – Enhances mental well-being - Suicide, anxiety.
• Anekantavada (Multiplicity of Viewpoints) – Ideological conflicts.
• Syadvada (Relativity of Judgments)

Conclusion:

Give a balanced conclusion.

5. (a) "One who is devoted to one's duty attains highest perfection in life." Analyse this statement with reference to sense of responsibility and personal fulfilment as a civil servant. (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction:

Give the basic meaning of the statement (or) describe duty in ethics.

Main Body

Sense of responsibility as a civil servant

• Commitment to public service
• Constitutional morality over personal urges
• Accountability
• Empathy towards citizens
• Impartiality
• Resilience in crisis
• Courage of conviction
• Excellence in administration

Personal fulfilment through duty

• Serving society provides a sense of purpose beyond material rewards.
• Self-respect
• Creates moral confidence and professional dignity.
• Inner satisfaction
• Self-development – Like patience, courage, empathy, judgement and leadership.

Conclusion:

Give a balanced conclusion and mention some quotes.

(b) To achieve the holistic development goal, a civil servant acts as an enabler and active facilitator of growth rather than a regulator. What specific measures will you suggest to achieve this goal? (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction:

Describe holistic development & goals (or) start like – A civil servant must act as a transition from a traditional "command-and-control" regulator to a proactive enabler and active facilitator of growth.

Holistic development goals include

• Economic well-being
• Social well-being
• Human development
• Environmental sustainability
• Good governance
• Empowerment

Main Body

Measures to achieve this goal

• Simplify regulations
• Promotes evidence-based measures
• Strengthen citizen participation
• Promote ease of doing business
• Empower local institutions
• Converge government schemes
• Leverage technology as an enabler
• Build partnerships
• Focus on capacity building

Conclusion:

Give a balanced conclusion.

A facilitator-civil servant must balance efficiency with accountability, innovation with legality, and flexibility with fairness. Being an enabler does not mean weakening regulation; rather, regulation should protect public interest while avoiding unnecessary barriers.