Code of Ethics

·         Guiding principles and vision of the organization

·         It helps to maintain sustainability and good will of the organization.

·         There are the general principles and values that org must strive to achieve.

·         It guides the decision making of the org

While there isn't a specific code of ethics for the entire Indian civil service, civil servants are expected to uphold principles such as integrity, impartiality, accountability, transparency, and commitment to public service.

The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) in India, in its report titled "Ethics in Governance," recommended a set of code of ethics for Indian civil servants. The code of ethics proposed by the Second ARC emphasizes the following principles:

Integrity:

·         Civil servants should uphold the highest standards of integrity and honesty in their actions and decisions.

·         They should resist and prevent corruption, bribery, and unethical practices.

Impartiality and Fairness:

·         Civil servants should maintain impartiality and fairness in their dealings, ensuring equal treatment for all individuals and avoiding favoritism or discrimination.

·         They should base their decisions on merit, without being influenced by personal biases or external pressures.

Objectivity and Transparency:

·         Civil servants should strive for objectivity in their work, ensuring that decisions are based on accurate information, data, and analysis.

·         They should be transparent in their processes, providing access to information and maintaining public trust.

Accountability and Responsibility:

·         Civil servants should take responsibility for their actions and decisions, being accountable to the public and higher authorities.

·         They should accept and learn from mistakes, and proactively address any shortcomings or failures.

Commitment to Public Service:

·         Civil servants should prioritize the public interest above personal or sectional interests.

·         They should be dedicated to serving the people, ensuring the efficient delivery of public services and the welfare of citizens.

Professionalism and Competence:

·         Civil servants should continuously enhance their professional skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively.

·         They should maintain professionalism in their behavior, demeanor, and conduct, upholding the reputation of the civil services.

These recommended code of ethics by the Second ARC provide a framework for ethical conduct and behavior for civil servants in India. It aims to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance and enhance public trust in the civil services. The implementation of these ethical principles is crucial for ensuring good governance and the efficient functioning of the administrative machinery in India.

The Nolan Principles: Foundation for Ethical Conduct in Public Life

The Seven Principles of Public Life, also known as the Nolan Principles, were established by the Committee on Standards in Public Life, chaired by Lord Nolan, in the United Kingdom. These principles serve as a framework for ethical conduct and behavior in public office.

1.      Selflessness – Holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other benefits for themselves, their family or their friends.

2.      Integrity – Holders of public office should not place themselves un der any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might seek to influence them in the performance of their official duties.

3.      Objectivity – In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.

4.      Accountability – Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.

5.      Openness – Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.

6.      Honesty – Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.

7.      Leadership – Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.

The Nolan Principles provide a foundation for ethical governance and public service. They serve as a guide for public office holders to ensure transparency, accountability, and public trust. These principles are relevant not only in the United Kingdom but also serve as a benchmark for ethical conduct in many countries worldwide. By adhering to these principles, public office holders can contribute to the promotion of good governance and the maintenance of public confidence in the administration of public affairs.