Ethics ( GS -4 , Integrity)

Integrity 

Introduction

Integrity is one of the most crucial ethical values expected from civil servants. It refers to the quality of being honest, morally upright, and consistent in thoughts, words, and actions. In governance, integrity ensures that public officials act in the best interest of citizens, uphold constitutional values, and resist corrupt or unethical influences. UPSC includes integrity as a core element in General Studies Paper IV (Ethics), emphasizing its importance in building trustworthy, accountable, and transparent administration.

Meaning of Integrity

Integrity literally means ‘wholeness’. It is the alignment of internal moral principles with external behavior. A person with integrity does what is right even when no one is watching. It goes beyond honesty (telling the truth) to include moral courage, consistency, and adherence to ethical values despite pressure, temptation, or personal loss.

Elements / Components of Integrity

1. Honesty – Speaking the truth, presenting facts accurately, and avoiding deception.
2. Consistency – Maintaining the same ethical standards in all situations.
3. Moral Courage – Standing for what is right despite opposition, criticism, or risk.
4. Accountability – Taking responsibility for actions and decisions.
5. Commitment to Public Service – Prioritizing public interest over personal gains.
6. Transparency – Ensuring openness in procedure and decision-making.
7. Probity – Upholding the highest standards of rectitude in public life.

Integrity vs Honesty vs Probity

• Honesty is truthfulness.
• Integrity is broader, including honesty + consistency + moral courage.
• Probity is integrity in public life, especially in financial matters (e.g., preventing corruption, ensuring fair procurement).

Importance of Integrity in Public Administration

1. Strengthens Public Trust – Citizens trust government institutions when officials show integrity.
2. Reduces Corruption – A culture of integrity discourages bribery, nepotism, and misuse of power.
3. Improves Governance Quality – Ethical decision-making leads to efficiency, fairness, and justice.
4. Ensures Rule of Law – Officers with integrity uphold legal procedures without bias.
5. Promotes Social Equity – Integrity ensures equal treatment of all sections, especially vulnerable groups.
6. Enhances Institutional Credibility – Government bodies gain legitimacy when their functionaries act ethically.
7. Ensures Sustainability – Policies rooted in integrity consider long-term societal welfare.

Factors Affecting Integrity

1. Personal Values and Upbringing
2. Organizational Culture (ethical leadership, transparent processes)
3. Social Environment (public expectations, peer pressure)
4. Legal Framework (laws, rules, oversight institutions)
5. Reward and Punishment Mechanisms
6. Training and Education

Threats to Integrity

1. Corruption and Bribery
2. Conflict of Interest
3. Political Pressure
4. Lack of Transparency
5. Weak Accountability Mechanisms
6. Favouritism and Nepotism
7. Moral Disengagement (justifying unethical actions)

How Civil Servants Can Maintain Integrity

1. Adherence to Constitutional Values – especially equality, justice, and public welfare.
2. Following Code of Conduct – Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, All India Services Conduct Rules.
3. Transparency in Decision-Making – documenting reasons, maintaining records.
4. Avoiding Conflict of Interest – recusing from matters involving personal bias or relationships.
5. Ethical Leadership – inspiring juniors through example.
6. Seeking Guidance – consulting seniors, ethics committees, or rules when in doubt.
7. Refusing Undue Influence – political neutrality and impartiality.
8. Continuous Self-Reflection – introspection to identify biases and weaknesses.
9. Whistleblowing when necessary – reporting corruption or violations through proper channels.
10. Financial Integrity – avoiding lavish lifestyle beyond income, maintaining clean financial records.

Institutional Measures to Promote Integrity

• Lokpal and Lokayuktas
• Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)
• Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
• RTI Act (enhances transparency)
• Whistleblower Protection Act
• Citizen Charters
• E-governance to reduce human discretion
• Social audits (especially in welfare schemes)
• Ethics training and workshops

Examples of Integrity

• Lal Bahadur Shastri returning government money for personal use.
• TN Seshan enforcing electoral integrity without fear or favour.
• E. Sreedharan (Metro Man) known for punctuality, project transparency, and zero corruption.
• A District Collector refusing political pressure in land acquisition cases.

Conclusion

Integrity is the backbone of ethical governance. For civil servants, it ensures that power is used responsibly, fairly, and transparently. An administration rooted in integrity is essential for democratic stability, efficient service delivery, and the welfare of citizens. Ultimately, integrity is not just a value but a lifelong commitment to moral excellence and public service.