Public administration, derived from the Latin word "administrationem," is the act of serving and cooperating with the public. It encompasses the functions performed by the bureaucracy, which is responsible for implementing rules and governing the affairs of a nation. In the context of India, public administration faces challenges stemming from traditional bureaucratic attitudes and colonial influences. To address these issues, a reformation of the bureaucratic paradigm is required to suit the contemporary context of Indian administration.
Max Weber's theory of bureaucracy is a pioneering study in organizational models. It is closely linked to his concept of the "legitimacy of authority." Weber identified three types of authority based on their sources of legitimacy: traditional authority, charismatic authority, and legal-rational authority. The legal-rational authority model, described by Weber, is most suitable for democratic forms of government. It features continuous and regulated official business, adherence to stipulated rules, a hierarchical structure, unified control and disciplinary systems, and a focus on career advancement.
Max Weber advocated for bureaucracy to be guided by a rational principle, prioritizing rules and regulations over personal moral and ethical norms. This approach prevents the misuse of power and ensures fair practices, particularly in areas such as contract awards. Bureaucrats play a crucial role in upholding ethical standards, understanding that the happiness of the people is intertwined with the welfare of the nation.
Ethics and values play a vital role in the smooth functioning of public administration systems. They establish a framework of accountability between the public and the administration. Several key ethical principles are essential for upholding public service values:
Public service values, also known as civil service values, are a set of principles that guide civil servants in carrying out their duties. These values include integrity, honesty, objectivity, non-partisanship, and impartiality. Effective implementation of these values promotes discipline among superiors and subordinates and maintains a positive work culture.
In a democratic system, government servants or the bureaucracy should not only be constituted by the people but also be accountable to the people. Accountability can be divided into two categories: external (outside the executive) and internal (within the executive). External accountability involves institutions such as parliament, judiciary, Lokayukta, CAG, and CVC. Internal accountability relies on superior officers, disciplinary procedures, performance management systems, internal audit, and grievance redressal mechanisms.
Various ethical frameworks guide decision-making in public administration. Two prominent approaches are discussed here:
Corporate governance refers to the rules and mechanisms that regulate and ensure ethical conduct within an organization. While the concept of corporate governance is often associated with private sector companies, it is equally applicable to public administration. In the public sector, effective corporate governance ensures transparency, accountability, and ethical practices.
Board Oversight: A governing body, such as a board or committee, should provide oversight and guidance to ensure that ethical standards are upheld throughout the organization. The board should consist of individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise to promote transparency and prevent conflicts of interest.
Despite the significance of public/civil service values and ethics in public administration, several challenges persist. These challenges include bureaucratic red tape, corruption, political interference, lack of accountability, and inadequate resources. Overcoming these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including:
Public/civil service values and ethics form the foundation of a well-functioning and accountable public administration. Upholding these values is crucial for ensuring the trust of the public and maintaining the integrity of the administration. By adhering to ethical principles, implementing effective governance mechanisms, and addressing existing challenges, public administration can effectively serve the interests of the people and contribute to the overall development and welfare of the nation.
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