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15 marks 250 words Discuss
“Probity in governance is the foundation of good administration.” Discuss the philosophical and institutional means to ensure it.

Decoding the directive: “Discuss”

Two-part: the philosophical case for probity AND the institutional machinery that enforces it.

What UPSC is really asking

Explain probity (integrity + honesty + rule of law), why it underpins good governance, and the institutional tools — RTI, Citizens’ Charters, Lokpal, code of conduct, social audit — plus the values a civil servant must embody.

Dimensions the examiner expects

Cover these dimensions
  • Meaning — probity, integrity, public trust
  • Philosophical basis — public office as a public trust
  • Institutional means — RTI, Lokpal, CVC, Citizens’ Charter, social audit
  • Civil-service values — objectivity, impartiality, accountability
  • Challenges to probity

Concepts & keywords to name

Use the right vocabulary
  • Probity — uncompromising integrity in public life
  • Public office as public trust — foundational principle
  • Lokpal & CVC — anti-corruption institutions
  • Citizens’ Charter & social audit — accountability tools

Common mistakes to avoid

Don’t do this
  • Only philosophy or only institutions — not both
  • Vague on named institutions
  • No civil-service values listed

Quick hints before you write

Structuring tips
  • Split the body cleanly into philosophical and institutional halves.
  • Name Lokpal, CVC, RTI and Citizens’ Charter as your anchors.

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