Explain the main recommendations of the Second Administrative Reforms Commission on ‘Ethics in Governance’ in India.

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The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) on Ethics in Governance in India: Key Recommendations

Introduction:

The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), established in 2005 by the Government of India, undertook a comprehensive review of various aspects of governance. Its report on ‘Ethics in Governance’ (2007) is a landmark document addressing the crucial need for ethical conduct within the Indian bureaucracy and public life. The report acknowledged the pervasive nature of corruption and the erosion of public trust, emphasizing the need for a robust ethical framework to restore faith in governance. The ARC’s recommendations aimed to create a culture of accountability, transparency, and integrity across all levels of administration.

Body:

1. Strengthening Ethical Frameworks:

The ARC recommended a comprehensive overhaul of existing ethical codes and guidelines. This included:

  • Enhancing the existing Code of Conduct: The Commission suggested strengthening the existing code of conduct for civil servants, making it more comprehensive and enforceable. This involved clarifying ambiguous clauses, adding provisions on conflict of interest, and incorporating international best practices.
  • Developing a comprehensive ethics manual: The ARC advocated for the creation of a detailed ethics manual for all government employees, providing clear guidelines on ethical dilemmas and situations they might encounter. This manual would serve as a practical guide for navigating complex ethical challenges.
  • Establishing an independent ethics commission: A key recommendation was the establishment of an independent and empowered ethics commission to investigate complaints of misconduct, recommend disciplinary action, and promote ethical awareness. This commission would be free from political interference and ensure impartiality.

2. Promoting Transparency and Accountability:

The ARC stressed the importance of transparency and accountability mechanisms to deter unethical behavior. Recommendations included:

  • Strengthening the Right to Information Act: The Commission suggested strengthening the RTI Act to make information more readily accessible and to ensure timely responses to requests. This would enhance transparency and accountability in government functioning.
  • Promoting e-governance: The ARC advocated for wider adoption of e-governance initiatives to reduce human intervention and minimize opportunities for corruption. Online systems for service delivery and information dissemination would enhance transparency and efficiency.
  • Strengthening internal audit mechanisms: The Commission recommended strengthening internal audit systems within government departments to detect and prevent irregularities. Independent audits and regular performance evaluations were also emphasized.

3. Capacity Building and Training:

The ARC recognized the importance of ethical awareness and training in fostering a culture of integrity. Key recommendations included:

  • Incorporating ethics training in civil services training: The Commission recommended integrating ethics training into the curriculum of civil services training academies. This would instill ethical values in future bureaucrats from the outset of their careers.
  • Regular ethics workshops and seminars: The ARC suggested organizing regular ethics workshops and seminars for government employees at all levels to enhance their understanding of ethical principles and best practices.
  • Promoting ethical leadership: The Commission emphasized the crucial role of ethical leadership in shaping the organizational culture. Leaders were expected to set high ethical standards and lead by example.

4. Addressing Conflict of Interest:

The ARC specifically addressed the issue of conflict of interest, a significant ethical challenge in governance. Recommendations included:

  • Clearer guidelines on conflict of interest: The Commission recommended developing clearer and more comprehensive guidelines on conflict of interest, specifying situations that constitute a conflict and outlining appropriate procedures for handling such situations.
  • Disclosure mechanisms: The ARC suggested implementing robust disclosure mechanisms to ensure transparency in financial dealings and potential conflicts of interest.
  • Independent review mechanisms: The Commission recommended establishing independent mechanisms to review potential conflicts of interest and ensure impartial decision-making.

Conclusion:

The Second ARC’s recommendations on ethics in governance were far-reaching and aimed at creating a more ethical and accountable public administration. The emphasis on strengthening ethical frameworks, promoting transparency and accountability, capacity building, and addressing conflict of interest remains highly relevant today. While some recommendations have been implemented, others require further attention. A holistic approach, involving the establishment of an independent ethics commission, strengthening the RTI Act, and promoting a culture of ethical leadership, is crucial for achieving the desired goals. By fostering a culture of integrity and accountability, India can strengthen its democratic institutions and ensure good governance for the benefit of its citizens, upholding constitutional values and promoting sustainable development.

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