UPSC 2019 GS-IV · 10 marks · 150 words
What do you understand by probity in governance? Based on your understanding of the term, suggest measures for ensuring probity in government.
What a top answer must contain
These are the checkable specifics from the marking standard for this question — the actual case, committee, datum or thinker, not an instruction to “give examples”.
- Probity: uprightness beyond mere legality — doing right when nothing compels it; integrity plus procedural fairness
- Enabling conditions: transparency (RTI), accountability (CAG-PAC, Lokpal), predictability of rules, participation
- Measures: asset declarations, whistle-blower protection, e-procurement and GeM to cut discretion, citizens charters, social audit
- Institutional: CVC, Lokpal and Lokayuktas, Benami and PMLA enforcement
- Klitgaard's formula C = M + D - A to structure the suggestions rather than list them
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