Discuss the Public Services Code as recommended by the 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission. (UPSC 2016, 10 Marks, )

EN ह

1. Recruitment and Selection:

Clear and standardized procedures and criteria for hiring public servants.

Emphasizes transparency, fairness, and merit-based selection.

2. Performance Management:

Proposes a performance-based evaluation system for public servants.

Calls for regular assessments and feedback mechanisms.

3. Ethics and Conduct:

Specifies a code of ethics for public servants.

Promotes integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

Addresses conflicts of interest and corruption.

4. Training and Capacity Building:

Stresses continuous training and development.

Encourages knowledge sharing and learning.

5. Grievance Redressal and Whistleblower Protection:

Establishes a mechanism for addressing grievances.

Ensures protection for whistleblowers.

6. Discipline and Disciplinary Proceedings:

Outlines a framework for disciplinary actions.

Recommends a time-bound and impartial mechanism.

7. Human Resource Management:

Focuses on effective management of human resources.

Emphasizes talent acquisition, retention, and motivation.

8. Interactions with Citizens:

Encourages a citizen-centric approach.

Advocates for feedback mechanisms and public participation.

9. Implementation and Monitoring:

Provides guidelines for Code implementation.

Calls for periodic reviews and updates.

Actual Public Services Code, 2007

 The Government should support every Public Service employee to carry out their official duties with competence, accountability, care, and diligence.

 Public servants should act responsibly, honestly, objectively, and impartially, without discrimination and in accordance with the law.

 Public servants should ensure effective management, professional growth, and leadership development.

 Public servants should avoid the misuse of their official position or information and use public funds with the utmost care and efficiency.

 Public servants should function with the objective of serving as instruments of good governance, providing services for the betterment of the public at large.

 Public servants should promote socio-economic development, while respecting the nation's diversity and ensuring there is no discrimination based on caste, community, religion, gender, or class. Additionally, they should protect the interests of the poor, underprivileged, and weaker sections of society.