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Ethics Notes Which You Shouldn’t Miss!

This post is a compilation of our most viewed notes on Ethics, which we think our readers should not miss.

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If you are looking for a video course to learn Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude faster, ClearIAS has a best-selling course on it.

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Learn Ethics: Must Read Articles

If you are searching for ClearIAS online notes for ethics, we recommend you read the article “ How to study the Ethics Paper for IAS Mains ” first, and then go through the below articles.

• How to study the Ethics Paper for UPSC CSE
• Ethics – Definition and Concept Made Easy; With Examples
• Dimensions of Ethics – Easy-to-Learn Infographics
• Values – Concepts Made Easy with Examples
• Attitude – Concepts Made Simple; With Examples
• Aptitude – Concepts Made Simple with Examples
• Emotional Intelligence – Concepts Made Simple with Examples

Ethics and Human Interface:

• Ethics and Human Interface
• Essence, determinants, and consequences of Ethics in human actions
• Dimensions of ethics
• Ethics in private and public relationships

Human Values

• Human Values – Lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators
• Role of family, society, and educational institutions in inculcating values
• Attitude: content, structure, function
• Attitude and its influence and relation with thought and behaviour
• Moral and political attitudes
• Social influence and persuasion
• Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service
• Impartiality and non-partisanship
• Objectivity
• Dedication to public service
• Tolerance and Compassion towards the weaker sections

Emotional Intelligence

• Emotional intelligence – concepts
• Utilities and application of Emotional Intelligence in administration and governance

Moral Thinkers and Philosophers

• Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world

Civil Service Values

• Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems
• Ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions
• Laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance
• Accountability
• Ethical governance
• Strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance
• Ethical issues in international relations and funding
• Corporate governance .
• Probity in Governance
• Concept of Public Service
• The philosophical basis of governance and probity
• Information sharing and transparency in government
• Right to Information
• Codes of Ethics
• Codes of Conduct
• Citizen’s Charters
• Work culture
• Quality of service delivery
• Utilization of public funds
• Challenges of corruption

Case Studies

• Case Studies on the above issues .

Ethics Notes (Latest Updates)

• ClearIAS Ethics Notes (New Study Materials)

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Reader Interactions

November 13, 2018 at 8:20 am

Hiii mam/ sir I’m renu and I’m hindi medium student so I request pls aap mujhe hindi main quize questions and notes provide kr skte ho….

February 3, 2019 at 1:27 pm

Very Useful Application… Thank you ClearIAS and It’s Team. Thanks again

March 19, 2019 at 11:39 am

Mene upsc Ka form fill Kiya hai please suggest me which book is best for prelims

April 10, 2019 at 9:30 am

Sir maney upsc ka Form bara h tho prelims k liye kon si books study karu

April 19, 2019 at 11:12 am

Sir maje upsc main ke leye short book btaya jaye or options paper. Gs paper ke leye questions bank le

May 7, 2019 at 9:19 pm

So very usefull application which helps in the study for upsc students…. These site provides all and everything’s about upsc concept…… Very best action of this apps is that this apps had provided book writter name…

May 9, 2019 at 8:06 am

is this notes cover all topic according to upsc syllabus

May 10, 2019 at 10:40 pm

https://www.bing.com/translato you can translate this page into hindi or Any otjer Indian language through above web address..all the best

May 13, 2019 at 9:52 pm

Sir can u plz make me available previous years ethics solved papers of upsc

May 14, 2019 at 1:04 am

Where is print pdf option?

June 12, 2019 at 10:44 am

Sir please can you provide this notes in PDF format

June 21, 2019 at 5:40 am

Thank you.clear ias team.

December 17, 2019 at 9:09 am

I have no word to express my sincere gratitude to the entire team of this esteemed clearias family members for such wonderful job.You all made our struggle and journey half-done by providing such ready made notes which are lucid to grasp and easy to understand. Thank you!!

March 10, 2023 at 7:44 am

how to download the notes

February 11, 2020 at 1:27 am

Dear clearias,

Please provide the ethics notes in pdf format then it will be really helpful for a lot of candidates.

Regards, Asmita Chakraborty.

August 14, 2020 at 12:48 am

Is this enough for ethics…please tell me…

August 14, 2020 at 12:49 am

Is this enough for ethics??? Please tell me

May 19, 2023 at 2:25 pm

Dear clear IAS Would you please send pdf format of ethics notes

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UPSC Ethics Syllabus - Mains GS Paper 4 Syllabus PDF

By vajiram & ravi.

The UPSC Ethics syllabus covers a wide range of topics that revolve around the concept of ethics in public administration.This GS Paper-IV aims to assess the candidate's understanding of ethical principles, moral values, and their ability to apply ethical considerations in various situations.

UPSC General Studies Paper 4: Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

The Ethics paper in the UPSC Mains examination is part of the General Studies Paper IV (GS Paper IV). It is designed to evaluate the ethical and moral dimensions of a candidate's personality and decision-making abilities. The paper aims to assess how a candidate is likely to behave in different professional and public service situations. 

The questions may adopt a case study approach to evaluate these aspects.

UPSC Ethics Syllabus

The Ethics Syllabus in the UPSC Mains examination is crucial for assessing a candidate's character, values, and ethical decision-making abilities. It emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior in public administration and the civil services. Aspirants are expected to approach this paper with a strong understanding of ethical concepts and their practical application in the context of public service.

Structure of UPSC Ethics Syllabus

The UPSC Mains Examination Ethics paper, also known as General Studies Paper IV or GS Paper IV, is designed to assess the ethical and moral dimensions of a candidate's personality and their ability to apply ethical considerations in various situations. The structure of the UPSC Ethics paper typically follows this pattern:

Section-A: Ethics and Human Interface (125 marks)

• Understanding ethics in human interactions.
• Emotional intelligence and its application in administration and governance.
• Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers to ethical thought.
• Dimensions of ethics and values in public administration.
• Ethical issues in international relations and funding.

Section-B: Attitude (125 marks)

• Attitude: Content, structure, function, its influence, and relation with thought and behavior.
• Moral and political attitudes.
• Social influence and persuasion.
• Personal and professional ethics.
• Emotional intelligence and its components.

Case Studies: In addition to the direct concept-related questions, the paper includes case studies that test the candidate's application of ethical principles and values to real-life situations. These case studies involve decision-making in complex and practical scenarios, where the candidate is required to demonstrate their ethical judgment, integrity, and aptitude for problem-solving.

The total marks allotted to the UPSC Ethics paper are 250 marks , and it is mandatory for all candidates to attempt all the questions. The paper aims to evaluate not only the candidate's theoretical knowledge of ethics but also their ability to apply ethical considerations in practical scenarios.

Candidates are expected to provide well-reasoned, balanced, and coherent answers to the questions. The answers should reflect a strong ethical foundation and an understanding of the principles and values that govern public administration. Clarity of thought, critical thinking, and a comprehensive understanding of the subject are essential for scoring well in the UPSC Ethics paper.

FAQS on UPSC Ethics Syllabus

What is the ethics syllabus for upsc.

The ethics syllabus for UPSC Mains Examination includes topics related to ethics, integrity, and aptitude. It covers areas such as understanding ethics in human interactions, emotional intelligence, contributions of moral thinkers, values in public administration, moral and political attitudes, and more. The paper also includes case studies to test the application of ethical principles in practical situations. The total marks allotted to the UPSC Ethics paper are 250 marks, and it is an integral part of the General Studies Paper IV in the UPSC Mains examination.

What is the syllabus of GS 4 Ethics?

The syllabus of GS 4 or General Studies Paper IV for ethics includes topics related to ethics, integrity, and aptitude. It covers areas such as understanding ethics in human interactions, emotional intelligence, contributions of moral thinkers, values in public administration, moral and political attitudes, and more. The paper also includes case studies to test the application of ethical principles in practical situations. The total marks allotted to the GS 4 ethics paper are 250 marks, and it is an important part of the UPSC Mains Examination.

Which book is good for UPSC ethics?

For UPSC ethics preparation, several books are recommended, but one of the most popular and widely used books is "Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude" by G. Subba Rao and P.N. Roy Chowdhury. This book comprehensively covers the ethics syllabus, including case studies, moral philosophies, and ethical decision-making. Additionally, "Lexicon for Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude" by Niraj Kumar is another valuable resource for UPSC aspirants to enhance their understanding of ethical concepts and principles. As always, candidates should supplement their preparation with official UPSC study materials and practice solving previous year's question papers to excel in the ethics paper.

How many days to complete ethics for UPSC?

The time required to complete ethics preparation for GS IV Ethics Paper varies from candidate to candidate based on their prior knowledge and study pace. Generally, it is advisable to dedicate at least 3-4 weeks for in-depth study and practice of the ethics syllabus. However, candidates should design a study plan that suits their individual needs and allows sufficient time for understanding ethical concepts, solving case studies, and revising the topics. Consistent and focused preparation is key to excel in the ethics paper in the UPSC Mains examination.

© 2024 Vajiram & Ravi. All rights reserved

Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude (GS4) Free Case Studies & Exam Notes for UPSC IAS IPS exam

Full length question papers for ethics, integrity and aptitude.

• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS4: Set#3- Ethics case study on Sridevi, Shah Faisal & Burhan Wani
• [Full Length Mock] UPSC Mains GS4: Set#2- Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude with case study on recruitment, Ostracism, Friendship & More
• [Full Length Mock] UUPSC Mains GS4: Set#1- Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude incl. Case Studies on Blue Whale Game, Gender Equality, Artistic Freedom
• [Download] UPSC Mains-GS4: Topicwise ALL Case Studies & Questions from 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 papers of Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

2015: Ethics by Kavan Limbasiya (AIR-198 | CSE-2014)

• [Ethics] E1/P1: Human Interface: Types of Judgments, Prerequisite for Ethical scrutiny, Meta Ethics, Applied ethics, Normative-Descriptive ethics
• [Ethics] E1/P2: Human Interface: Theories of Ethics- Teleological, Deontological, Virtue Ethics, Conduct Ethics, Rights based, Utilitarianism, Hedonism, Egoism,
• [Ethics] E1/P3: Human Values-Role of Family, Society, Educational Institutes; Ethics in Public & Private relations
• [Ethics] E2/P1: Attitude- Meaning, Structure, Functions, CAB Model- cognitive, affective, behavioral components
• [Ethics] E2/P2: Moral & Political attitude: Types, Factors Affecting, Role of Social Media, Milgram Experiment
• [Ethics] E2/P3: Attitude formation & Behavior Change, Persuasion, Prejudice, Discrimination, Stereotyping
• [Ethics] E2/P4: Case studies on Attitude, Behavior Change, Persuasion, Prejudice, Discrimination
• [Ethics] E3/P1: Aptitude for Civil Services & Foundational Values: Integrity, Probity, Objectivity
• [Ethics] E3/P2: Foundation Values-Empathy & Compassion towards the Weak + Case studies & Descriptive Questions
• [Ethics] E3/P3: Neutrality, Anonymity, Impartiality- 3 foundational values for civil services
• [Ethics] E3/P4: Case studies on Foundational values of Civil Services- objectivity, integrity, impartiality, neutrality, anonymity

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2014: Articles on Ethics

Here is the list of articles published under [Ethics] series for UPSC CSAT Paper II (decision making) and General Studies Paper IV (ethics) for Civil service IAS IPS Exam.

• [Ethics] Suspension: Meaning, Features, Reasons; Death, Resignation, Promotion during suspension & Case Studies
• [Ethics] Traps in Bribery case: features, safeguards, Phenolphthalein Test & case studies
• [Ethics] Enquries: Preliminary, Discreet, Regular; Prevention of Corruption Act features, Investigation & case studies
• [Ethics] Complaints: sources, types, actions, case studies
• [Ethics] Conduct rules: Meaning, implication, examples, misconduct vs.crime and case studies
• [GS2] Department of Personnel & Training, Vigilance: functions, United Nations Convention against Corruption, fodder points for GS4
• [GS2] Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG), Sevottam Framework, E-Office
• [Ethics] Sample Questions, Case studies for UPSC General studies paper 4 based on Donald Menzel’s book
• [Ethics] Samples questions based on ethics courses of San Diego and Texas University
• [Ethics] UPSC uploads sample questions for General Studies (GS) Mains Paper 4 (Ethics, Integrity AND Aptitude)

GS4: Mains Syllabus for Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

This paper will include questions to test the candidates’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his problem solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him in dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered.

• Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.
• Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
• Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.
• Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service , integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections.
• Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
• Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
• Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance;
• Ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
• Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information
• sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s
• Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.
• Case Studies on above issues.

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Ethics & Essay: The Game Changer of UPSC

Essay and ethics paper plays an important role in securing a good rank in the final upsc merit list check here how these two papers prove to be a game-changer in upsc ias mains exams..

Every year UPSC conducts examinations to recruit elite officers like IAS, IPS, IFS, etc. Analysis of UPSC Papers and results every year makes us unravel the mindset of the examination body, which is extremely important to carve a specific and categorical strategy for the exam. Prelims question paper of UPSC 2020 and results of UPSC 2019 both have created a ripple of strange waves among aspirants. Aspirants have again started quoting that UPSC is actually Unpredictable Public Service Commission. However, close analysis and scanning will show us that surprises in UPSC are not a new trend rather an old legacy that just changes its shape and form every year. It is a general impression among aspirants that Optional is the keystone of the Mains Ecosystem. Good command over optionals can take you through the rough weather of UPSC. However, in UPSC 2019, marks in Ethics and Essay seem to have busted the hegemony of optionals. Marks of some of the toppers are so exceptional and high in Ethics and Essay that it won’t be an exaggeration to say that Ethics and Essay can be “Game Changer of UPSC”.

Let us see marks of some toppers to dive a little deeper:- 1. Pradeep Singh (AIR-1) Marks in Optional- 293 Marks in Ethics & Essay 297 2. Mandar Patki(AIR-22) Marks in Optional- 286 Marks in Ethics & Essay- 278 3. Ashutosh Kulkarni(AIR-44) Marks in Optional- 281 Marks in Ethics & Essay- 266 4. Muskan Jindal(AIR- 87) Marks in Optional- 262 Marks in Ethics & Essay- 288 5. Arnayak Saika (AIR- 59) Marks in Optional- 270 Marks in Ethics & Essay- 259 So what conclusion do we draw from the above four random mark sheets? Firstly , Marks of Rankers in Ethics & Essay have challenged the hegemony of both papers of optionals. In the above random samples, marks in Essay and Ethics are either more or just beneath the optionals. Secondly, it seems to be a myth that an Essay is a vague paper and needs no specific preparation. Our interaction with many rankers this year makes us conclude that with proper planning coupled with smart preparation, people have crossed the boundary of 50 percent in Essay. Thirdly, marks of UPSC 2019 appears to have broken the lethargy around Ethics. For the last few years, one misconception has penetrated among students that it’s almost impossible to score much after centuries in Ethics. Exponentially high marks in Ethics like 160 of Ravi Jain, AIR-9 has almost destroyed the myth. Fourthly, marks in Essay and Ethics deserve more appreciation if we sketch cost-benefit analysis amidst investment of massive time in coverage of optionals. Nothing can be a more perfect definition of smart strategy when you chase and defeat optionals with a fraction of time investment. Lastly, Ethics and Essay should go hand by hand. Our interaction with toppers makes us believe that aspirants have used multiple scholars and philosophers from the Ethics paper in Essay Paper to draw multiple facets of dimensions. Hence, Ethics and Essay is indeed a Game Changer in UPSC.

Manoj K. Jha, Director @ GS Score

Also Check: 

UPSC IAS Mains 2020: How to Write a Good Essay?

UPSC IAS Mains 2020: Preparation Strategy for GS Paper IV (Ethics)

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About The Course

The Ethics Paper is one of the key determinants of cracking the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination or for that matter even in getting in the top 100 of the final list. This paper has the potential of scores ranging from an average of 125 to a high of 160 marks, as opposed to papers such as GS Papers 1 where the average hovers from 80-90 marks to a high of around 120 marks. Thus, its effective weightage in the total score is very high.

Ethics+ Classes focus on the following aspects:

Ethics+ aims to build a theoretical base which is necessary when one delves into answer writing.

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Table of Contents

Essay (UPSC Mains) – Previous Year Questions

• Thinking is like a game; it does not begin unless there is an opposite team.
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.
• Not all who wander are lost.
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane.
• Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands — two equally harmful disciplines.
• Mathematics is the Music of Reason.
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.
• Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.

Value based / Ethical Issues

• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities.
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.

Philosophical

• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.
• You can not step twice in the same river.
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for.

Miscellaneous / Mixed

• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence. (Environment / Economics)
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world ( Literature / Socio-political-economic impacts)
• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man ( History / Values / Philosophy)
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
• Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.
• The real is rational and the rational is real.
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

History / Culture

• History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

Science and Technology

• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!
• There are better practices to “best practices”. ( Multiple Themes )
• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. ( Philosophy / Technology)
• Life is long journey between human being and being humane.
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self.
• Ships do not sink because of water around them; ships sink because of water that gets into them.
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.

Social Issues

• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations ( Technology / International Relation ).
• Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be.
• Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success.
• Wisdom finds truth.
• South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities.
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society.
• Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness.

Science & Technology

• Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling.
• Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy.
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge.
• A people that value its privileges above its principles lose both.
• “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values.
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life.
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it.
• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere.

Environment

• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India.

IR & Security

• Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task.
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.
• Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth.
• Social media is inherently a selfish medium Domain.
• Has the Non- Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multi-polar world Domain.
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India Domain. ( Agriculture )
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India Domain.
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms.

Polity & Governance

• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws Domain.
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed.
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered.
• Cyberspace and internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run Domain.
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms.
• Water disputes between states in federal India Domain.
• Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality India.
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. ( Technology / Economy)
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare Domain. ( Technology / Economy / Social Sector)
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader.
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole.
• Quick but steady wins the race.
• Technology cannot replace manpower.
• Can capitalism bring inclusive growth?
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil. ( Education / Ethics)
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. ( Morality / Economics)
• With greater power comes greater responsibility.
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword.
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy?
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country?
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India?
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth?
• Are the standardized tests, good measure of academic ability or progress?
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. ( Multiple themes )
• Fifty Gold’s in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? ( Sports / Governance )
• Be the change you want to see in others – Gandhiji
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation.
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the well-being of a country.
• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? ( History / Culture / Growth & Development / Ethics )

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This Quote Means: ‘If you want to test a man’s character, give him power’

The quote speaks of the moral and ethical implications of wielding power. here’s a brief look at how power has been viewed by some great philosophers and political scientists, and what this quote argues. ethics also forms a part of the upsc cse syllabus..

Power is a subject to which philosophers and thinkers have devoted a great deal of thought – in defining it, in discussing who wields it, what ought to be done with it, and whether power is inherently a good or bad thing.

In popular culture too, quotes such as “With great power comes great responsibility”, and “Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely” give great weight to it. Another popular quote says: “If you want to test a man’s character, give him power”.

Popularly attributed to US President Abraham Lincoln, it likely has another source but is nevertheless a testament to power being linked to larger ethics and morality. What exactly does it say about the nature of power, and how does it differ from other views on the matter? We explain. Further, topics related to ethics and morality also form a part of the UPSC CSE syllabus.

What does this quote mean?

According to a Reuters fact-check from 2021, the quote comes from an American politician named Robert G Ingersoll, who said it about Lincoln.

In an 1883 speech, he reportedly said: “If you want to find out what a man is to the bottom, give him power. Any man can stand adversity — only a great man can stand prosperity. It is the glory of Abraham Lincoln that he never abused power only on the side of mercy.”

It argues that in times of trouble, every person gets down to their survival instincts. However, it is when a person is given power, which may be understood as the capacity to affect or change things meaningfully, that we get a sense of what their true character is like.

Power can also mean control over resources. A poor person may not be able to accomplish what she wants, or transform her intentions (good or bad) into reality. But when someone has power, they can make a difference, and it is then that we can understand a person’s true character.

Even at an individual or micro level, this can be witnessed to a degree, say when someone becomes the head of a local neighbourhood association or becomes in charge of organising an event. As part of the responsibilities they are given, do they become a team player or simply give instructions to others? Are they more interested in letting their vision prevail or are they open to criticism? Are they using that power for their benefit, say by asking others to do their work for them? In this way, power allows us to understand a person’s worldview.

On a larger level, when politicians get elected to powerful posts, or when bureaucrats or judges or media persons have to handle big issues related to their jobs that can affect thousands of people, one can witness their values and ethics through their work.

Different views of power

Nivedita Menon, a professor of political thought at Jawaharlal Nehru University, wrote that in political and social theory, “power refers to the ability to do things and the capacity to produce effects within social interaction.” Therefore, it is deeply connected to not individuals but them in relation to others.

Political scientist Hannah Arendt viewed power not just as coercion but as a tool of communication between people. No one can suddenly emerge and exercise power – it is something that gets its legitimacy from a group of people who agree to be part of a system.

She wrote, “power needs no justification, being inherent in the very existence of political communities; what it does need is legitimacy… Power springs up whenever people get together and act in concert, but it derives its legitimacy from the initial getting together rather than from any action that then may follow.”

In that sense, power can be energising. A democratically elected leader may choose to fix a broken system since he derives his authority from the community he is from. He could be aware that his power comes from deliberations, discussions, and a history of larger forces keeping people working together. He would then want to use it to better the lives of people in that community.

On the other hand, several Marxist scholars view power as the ability of dominant groups or economic classes in society to exercise control over others. For others, it is simply a tool to make someone do what they want.

Further, obtaining power is one thing, but maintaining it might compel a person to make decisions that are often amoral. As a result, the intention of doing something when one gets power can be noble, but the practical realities in society may make it difficult to be ethical in its exercise.

Although it is not a justification for all unethical actions, it is a criticism against the idea that all actions of a person in power directly reflect their character. They can also reflect the time they are in or the systems they are a part of, and could be linked to larger externalities.

Lastly, the quote also makes another assertion – that “any man can stand adversity”. Tough times – losing a loved one, money, or other intangible things of value – can force a man to fend for himself. But in that situation, if they are kind and choose to do good for others, is that also not a show of their character? It thus raises the question, is power the right judge of a person’s character?

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The MPBSE Board will declare the Class 10 and 12 results on April 24, 2024. Students can check their results on the official websites or through the MPBSE mobile app. The exams were held in pen-paper mode in 7,500 centers across the state. In 2023, the toppers were awarded e-Scooty and laptops. Last year, the overall pass percentage was 55.28%.

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IAS 2022: Ethics and Essay Test Series (Batch 4)

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• Questions & Discussion

Ethics and Essay  are such areas in  UPSC Exam  that can be your savior and improve your marks significantly if worked efficiently.  Ethics and Essay test series  help you to improvise in these areas through regular practice and time-bound approach of the syllabus. This test series has evolved as a perfect blend of “multiples aspects and dimensions of Ethics and essay. Well designed tests as per the IAS pattern , Detailed Discussion after Tests, One on one discussion with Faculty are few features that will surely help you to improvise your score in the IAS exam .

Programme Highlights

• Most Comprehensive Test Series that covers each part on Syllabus.
• 17 Topical Tests
• 4 Sectional Tests
• 3 Full Mock Tests
• More than 30 Case Studies covered
• Tests have been divided in three layers i.e. Topical, Sectional & Full Mock
• Topical Test of Section-A will be of 5 Questions and Section-B of 3 Case Studies.
• All Sectional & Full Tests will be as per UPSC pattern.
• A unique combination of three layer tests will give students opportunity to learn and grow at the real time.
• Detailed Discussion after Tests
• One – to – one discussion with Faculty.

Essay Writing

• 10 Approach Classes
• 10 Discussions
• Model Essay for every Test
• One on One Discussion after Copy Evaluation with Manoj K. Jha
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Ethics Q&A (Test Series)

• Total 24 Tests

Fee: 11,000/- (+GST)

• Total 30 Sessions including 10 Approach Class, 10 Tests and 10 Discussions.

Fee: 10,000/- (+GST)

Ethics & Essay Test Series

• Ethics - Total 24 Tests
• Essay - Total 30 Sessions including 10 Approach Class, 10 Tests and 10 Discussions.

Fee: 18,000/- (+GST)

Program Approach

About The Course

Ethics and Essay are such areas in UPSC Exam that can be your saviour and improve your marks significantly if worked efficiently. However lack of practice and rudimentary approach may also reduce your marks and jeopardize your chances of selection in Civil Services Exam . Ethics and Essay test series help you to improvise in these areas through regular practice and time bound approach of syllabus. This test series has evolved as a perfect blend of “multiples aspects and dimensions of Ethics and essay. A well-developed approach and rigorous practice can significantly enhance your score in ethics and essay.

There are Total 9 Tests in Ethics which comprise of 5 Sectional Tests and 4 Full Mock Tests while essay portion consists of Total 15 Sessions including 6 Approach Class & 9 Tests. All Sectional and full tests will be as per IAS Exam pattern . Detailed Discussion after Tests, One on one discussion with Faculty are exclusive features of this test series. No other practice and test required after this comprehensive test as this test series will instil enough confidence for UPSC exam.

• Provision of Approach and Model Answer Hints will be provided after every Test.
• Post Test Discussion Classes are designed in such a way that they can provide Value Addition on the other related topics of the respective Test. It also includes Answer Writing Approach for every Paper.
• Expert evaluation of the copies within 10 days of copy submission and One on One Discussion with respective Faculty after Copy Evaluation for improvement.
• Copy Evaluation and Feedback system has been designed to provide Relevant Insights and Feedback to each candidate as per his/her Performance.
• Study Plan will be provided for each subject which will include –Schema (Detailed Syllabus), Self-Assessment Test, Value Added Material and Reflective Exercise.
• Study material of 500+ contemporary issues will be provided at the time of mains exam for revision.
• Ethics case study workbook and Essay writing workbook will be provided for additional practice.

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• To enroll student has to register on the website using Registration Form or Google Login or Facebook Login.
• If already registerd login with your username and password which you have used for registration.
• Account for Test Series will be activated within one working day of Enrollment or before batch Starts.
• pdf of test question paper
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• Toppers test copy of the particular test
• Rank list of the students appeared in the test
• To write the test students have to download the PDF of test paper booklet or write the test in A4 sheet with proper spacing as per UPSC pattern. After writing the test send us back scanned copy in pdf format for evaluation.
• Further evaluated test copy will be sent back to the students within 15 days after receiving the answer sheet.
• Test discussion video will be uploaded into your account on the scheduled test date.
• Once student will receive evaluated copy, one to one discussion with concerned faculty/experts will be arranged via phone call or live interaction.

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Ethics Previous Year Questions for UPSC Mains

Ethics is a major part of General Studies 4 of the Civil Services Examination (CSE.) This article will provide you with a set of Ethics previous year questions that have been asked in the Mains GS IV of the IAS Exam , from the year 2013-2023.

It is advisable for the candidates to go through previous years ethics questions and answers UPSC to get knowledge of the nature of the questions asked in the examination. Candidates can get other subject-wise/topic-wise GS 4 questions from the links provided in the table below:

For details of UPSC Mains , check the linked article.

GS 4 Ethics Questions (Year-Wise)

We have segregated the ethics questions from the GS 4 papers of 2019-2013. There are two sets:

• Theoretical Questions
• Case Studies.

Candidates can find both the sets under each year one after another. Ethics forms a major chunk in GS 4 where both theoretical and case studies-bound questions revolve around this topic. You can get a complete trend analysis of general studies 4 in our GS Paper 4 Strategy, Structure and Syllabus page.

Ethics Questions – 2020

• Discuss the role of ethics and values in enhancing the following three major components of Comprehensive National Power (CNP) viz. human capital, soft power (culture and policies) and social harmony.
• Distinguish between laws and rules. Discuss the role of ethics in formulating them.

Discuss the following with reference to this case:

• Ethical issues involved in re-appropriation of funds from a welfare project to the developmental projects.
• Given the need for proper utilization of public funds, discuss the options available to Rajesh Kumar. Is resigning a worthy option?
• As an arms exporter of a responsible nation like India, what are the ethical issues involved in the arms trade?
• List five ethical factors that would influence the decision to sell arms to foreign governments.
• Rampura, a remote district inhabited by a tribal population, is marked by extreme backwardness and abject poverty. Agriculture is the mainstay of the local population, though it is primarily subsistence due to the very small landholdings. There is an insignificant industrial or mining activity. Even the targeted welfare programs have inadequately benefited the tribal population. In this restrictive scenario, the youth has begun to migrate to other states to supplement the family income. The plight of minor girls is that their parents are persuaded by labour contractors to send them to work in the Bt Cotton farms of a nearby state. The soft fingers of the minor girls are well suited for plucking the cotton. The inadequate living and working conditions in these farms have caused serious health issues for the minor girls. NGOs in the districts of domicile and the cotton farms appear to be compromised and have not effectively espoused the twin issues of child labour and development of the area. You are appointed as the District Collector of Rampura. Identify the ethical issues involved. Which specific steps will you initiate to ameliorate the conditions of minor girls of your district and to improve the overall economic scenario in the district?

Candidates can find the remaining case study questions based on ethics from the UPSC Mains GS IV Paper PDF given in the linked article.

Ethics Questions – 2019

• What is meant by the term ‘constitutional morality’? How does one uphold constitutional morality?
• Identify the ethical issues involved in this case.
• What options are available to the woman employee?

Ethics Questions – 2018

• What is meant by conflict of interest? Illustrate with examples, the difference between the actual and potential conflicts of interest.
• Suppose the Government of India is thinking of constructing a dam in a mountain valley bond by forests and inhabited by ethnic communities. What rational policy should it resort to in dealing with unforeseen contingencies
• Faced with this situation, what will you do?
• Critically examine various conflicts of interest and explain what your responsibilities are as a public servant.
• Do you agree that Snowden’s actions were ethically justified even if legally prohibited? Why or why not?
• Make an argument by weighing the competing values in this case

Ethics Questions – 2017

• One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real life example.
• Corporate social responsibility makes companies more profitable and sustainable. Analyse.
• The crisis of ethical values in modern times is traced to a narrow perception of the good life. Discuss
• You are aspiring to become an IAS officer and you have cleared various stages and now you have been selected for the personal interview. On the day of the interview, on the way to the venue, you saw an accident where a mother and child who happen to be your relatives were badly injured. They needed immediate help. What would you have done in such a situation? Justify your action.
• What are the dilemmas you face?
• What will be your response to the situation?

Ethics Questions – 2016

• Explain how ethics contributes to social and human well-being.
• Analyse John Rawls’s concept of social justice in the Indian Context.
• Discuss how they achieve this objective.
• Giving examples, show how the two differ in their approaches.
• Discuss how it leads to negative emotions and undesirable behaviors.
• How can it be managed and controlled?
• What arguments can you advance to show her that keeping quiet is not morally right?
• What course of action would you advise her to adopt and why?
• Just ignore thinking about it because it is their personal matter.
• Report the case to the appropriate authority.
• Your own innovative approach towards the situation.
• Identify the issues involved in the case.
• What can be suggested to satisfy the company’s goal and to address the residents’ concerns?

Ethics Questions – 2015

• What is meant by ‘environmental ethics’? Why is it important to study? Discuss any one environmental issue from the viewpoint of environmental ethics.
• Law and ethics
• Ethical management and management of ethics
• Discrimination and preferential treatment
• Personal Ethics and Professional Ethics
• How do the virtues of trustworthiness and fortitude get manifested in public service? Explain with examples
• Social values are more important than economic values. Discuss the above statement with examples in the context of inclusive growth of a nation.
• Identify the various actions that you could take
• Evaluate the pros and cons of each of your actions

Ethics Questions – 2014

• All human beings aspire for happiness. Do you agree? What does happiness mean to you? Explain with answers.
• What does ethics seek to promote human life? Why is it all the more important in Public Administration?
• Which eminent personality has inspired you the most in the context of ethical conduct in life? Give the Gist of his/her teachings. Giving specific examples describe how you have been able to apply these teachings for your own ethical development.
• There is a heavy ethical responsibility on the public servants because they occupy positions of power, handle huge amounts of public funds, and their decisions have a wide-ranging impact on society and the environment. What steps have you taken to improve your ethical competence to handle such responsibility?
• The current society is plagued with widespread trust-deficit. What are the consequences of this situation for personal well-being and for societal well-being? What can you do at a personal level to make yourself trustworthy?
• It is often said that poverty leads to corruption. However, there is no dearth of instances where affluent and powerful people indulge in corruption in a big way. What are the basic causes of corruption among people? Support your answer with examples.
• We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.
• Indicate various options that you think are available in this situation.
• How would you help him to evaluate these options and choose the most appropriate path to be adopted?
• Educated youth are trying to shift to urban areas
• Landless poor people are migrating to urban slums
• Even some farmers are selling off the land and trying to settle in urban areas taking petty jobs.

What feasible steps can you suggest which will be effective in controlling this serious problem in our country?

Ethics Questions – UPSC Mains

• What do you understand by ‘values’ and ‘ethics’? In what way is it important to be ethical along with being professionally competent?
• Some people feel that values keep changing with time and situation, while others strongly believe that there are certain universal and eternal human values. Give your perception in this regard with due justification.
• “The good of an individual is contained in the good of all.” What do you understand by this statement? How can this principle be implemented in public life?
• It is often said that ‘politics’ and ‘ethics’ do not go together. What is your opinion in this regard? Justify your answer with illustrations.
• What are the options available to you?
• Evaluate each of these options and choose the option which you would adopt, giving reasons.
• Evaluate each of these options and choose the option you would adopt, giving reasons

Candidates can get UPSC Previous Year Question Papers from the linked article.

Ethics Questions for UPSC Mains GS 4:- Download PDF Here

Ethics Examples of UPSC (Ethics Questions):- Download PDF Here

To get the topic-wise GS 4 questions for UPSC Mains in one place, check the linked article.

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ETHICS, ESSAY and GS2 COURSE UPSC CSE 2023/2024

Learn from the top faculty in India for Ethics, Essay and GS 2 for UPSC to score high marks in your Mains

Test Series Free!

• UPSC Civil Service Examination competent  Ethics & Essay classes  at Hyderabad.
• Classes are available in Offline & online.
• We at  VISHNU IAS  not only conduct theoretical classes, we also prepare our students to participate in ethical dilemma situations by conducting role plays .
• Vishnu Vardhan sir teaches ethics using real-life bureaucratic examples and stories from the Mahabharata.
• Essay classes will be conducted by the Vishnu sir, Santhosh Roa Sir and by the Rankers.
• Ethics classes will be conducted by Vishnu sir.
• Best Quality Class Room Notes (PDF) by  Vishnu Sir and Team.
• 12 Tests (6 Ethics + 6 Essay) + Evaluation + Model Answers  will be conducted.
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• UPSC 2023 Topper's Mock Essay Goes Viral, Sparking Debate on Exam Relevance

UPSC 2023 Topper's Mock Essay Goes Viral, Sparking Debate on Exam Relevance

Visual Stories

By Jed Handelsman Shugerman

Mr. Shugerman is a law professor at Boston University.

About a year ago, when Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, indicted former President Donald Trump, I was critical of the case and called it an embarrassment. I thought an array of legal problems would and should lead to long delays in federal courts.

After listening to Monday’s opening statement by prosecutors, I still think the Manhattan D.A. has made a historic mistake. Their vague allegation about “a criminal scheme to corrupt the 2016 presidential election” has me more concerned than ever about their unprecedented use of state law and their persistent avoidance of specifying an election crime or a valid theory of fraud.

To recap: Mr. Trump is accused in the case of falsifying business records. Those are misdemeanor charges. To elevate it to a criminal case, Mr. Bragg and his team have pointed to potential violations of federal election law and state tax fraud. They also cite state election law, but state statutory definitions of “public office” seem to limit those statutes to state and local races.

Both the misdemeanor and felony charges require that the defendant made the false record with “intent to defraud.” A year ago, I wondered how entirely internal business records (the daily ledger, pay stubs and invoices) could be the basis of any fraud if they are not shared with anyone outside the business. I suggested that the real fraud was Mr. Trump’s filing an (allegedly) false report to the Federal Election Commission, and only federal prosecutors had jurisdiction over that filing.

A recent conversation with Jeffrey Cohen, a friend, Boston College law professor and former prosecutor, made me think that the case could turn out to be more legitimate than I had originally thought. The reason has to do with those allegedly falsified business records: Most of them were entered in early 2017, generally before Mr. Trump filed his Federal Election Commission report that summer. Mr. Trump may have foreseen an investigation into his campaign, leading to its financial records. Mr. Trump may have falsely recorded these internal records before the F.E.C. filing as consciously part of the same fraud: to create a consistent paper trail and to hide intent to violate federal election laws, or defraud the F.E.C.

In short: It’s not the crime; it’s the cover-up.

Looking at the case in this way might address concerns about state jurisdiction. In this scenario, Mr. Trump arguably intended to deceive state investigators, too. State investigators could find these inconsistencies and alert federal agencies. Prosecutors could argue that New York State agencies have an interest in detecting conspiracies to defraud federal entities; they might also have a plausible answer to significant questions about whether New York State has jurisdiction or whether this stretch of a state business filing law is pre-empted by federal law.

However, this explanation is a novel interpretation with many significant legal problems. And none of the Manhattan D.A.’s filings or today’s opening statement even hint at this approach.

Instead of a theory of defrauding state regulators, Mr. Bragg has adopted a weak theory of “election interference,” and Justice Juan Merchan described the case , in his summary of it during jury selection, as an allegation of falsifying business records “to conceal an agreement with others to unlawfully influence the 2016 election.”

As a reality check, it is legal for a candidate to pay for a nondisclosure agreement. Hush money is unseemly, but it is legal. The election law scholar Richard Hasen rightly observed , “Calling it election interference actually cheapens the term and undermines the deadly serious charges in the real election interference cases.”

In Monday’s opening argument, the prosecutor Matthew Colangelo still evaded specifics about what was illegal about influencing an election, but then he claimed , “It was election fraud, pure and simple.” None of the relevant state or federal statutes refer to filing violations as fraud. Calling it “election fraud” is a legal and strategic mistake, exaggerating the case and setting up the jury with high expectations that the prosecutors cannot meet.

The most accurate description of this criminal case is a federal campaign finance filing violation. Without a federal violation (which the state election statute is tethered to), Mr. Bragg cannot upgrade the misdemeanor counts into felonies. Moreover, it is unclear how this case would even fulfill the misdemeanor requirement of “intent to defraud” without the federal crime.

In stretching jurisdiction and trying a federal crime in state court, the Manhattan D.A. is now pushing untested legal interpretations and applications. I see three red flags raising concerns about selective prosecution upon appeal.

First, I could find no previous case of any state prosecutor relying on the Federal Election Campaign Act either as a direct crime or a predicate crime. Whether state prosecutors have avoided doing so as a matter of law, norms or lack of expertise, this novel attempt is a sign of overreach.

Second, Mr. Trump’s lawyers argued that the New York statute requires that the predicate (underlying) crime must also be a New York crime, not a crime in another jurisdiction. The Manhattan D.A. responded with judicial precedents only about other criminal statutes, not the statute in this case. In the end, they could not cite a single judicial interpretation of this particular statute supporting their use of the statute (a plea deal and a single jury instruction do not count).

Third, no New York precedent has allowed an interpretation of defrauding the general public. Legal experts have noted that such a broad “election interference” theory is unprecedented, and a conviction based on it may not survive a state appeal.

Mr. Trump’s legal team also undercut itself for its decisions in the past year: His lawyers essentially put all of their eggs in the meritless basket of seeking to move the trial to federal court, instead of seeking a federal injunction to stop the trial entirely. If they had raised the issues of selective or vindictive prosecution and a mix of jurisdictional, pre-emption and constitutional claims, they could have delayed the trial past Election Day, even if they lost at each federal stage.

Another reason a federal crime has wound up in state court is that President Biden’s Justice Department bent over backward not to reopen this valid case or appoint a special counsel. Mr. Trump has tried to blame Mr. Biden for this prosecution as the real “election interference.” The Biden administration’s extra restraint belies this allegation and deserves more credit.

Eight years after the alleged crime itself, it is reasonable to ask if this is more about Manhattan politics than New York law. This case should serve as a cautionary tale about broader prosecutorial abuses in America — and promote bipartisan reforms of our partisan prosecutorial system.

Nevertheless, prosecutors should have some latitude to develop their case during trial, and maybe they will be more careful and precise about the underlying crime, fraud and the jurisdictional questions. Mr. Trump has received sufficient notice of the charges, and he can raise his arguments on appeal. One important principle of “ our Federalism ,” in the Supreme Court’s terms, is abstention , that federal courts should generally allow state trials to proceed first and wait to hear challenges later.

This case is still an embarrassment of prosecutorial ethics and apparent selective prosecution. Nevertheless, each side should have its day in court. If convicted, Mr. Trump can fight many other days — and perhaps win — in appellate courts. But if Monday’s opening is a preview of exaggerated allegations, imprecise legal theories and persistently unaddressed problems, the prosecutors might not win a conviction at all.

Jed Handelsman Shugerman (@jedshug) is a law professor at Boston University.

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EDITORIAL ANALYSIS : Restoring earth’s right to ‘good health’

Source: The Hindu

• Prelims: Current events of international importance, G20, Global south, UNFPA, SDG, Article 14, Article 21, World Meteorological Organization, International Mother Earth Day, NDC,
• Mains GS Paper II & III: Bilateral, regional and global grouping and agreements involving India or affecting India’s interests.

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

• The government’s actions to curb emissions were inadequate and had failed to protect women against the impacts of climate change.

INSIGHTS ON THE ISSUE

Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs):

• The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) , also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 .
• A universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
• It is a set of 17 SDGs which recognize that action in one area will affect outcomes in others and that development must balance social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
• Countries have committed to prioritizing progress for those who are furthest behind.
• The SDGs are designed to end poverty, hunger, AIDS, and discrimination against women.
• The SDGs framework sets targets for 231 unique indicators across 17 SDG goals related to economic development, social welfare and environmental sustainability, to be met by 2030.
• The United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Developmen t: It consists of 17 Goals a nd 169 targets as a plan of action for ‘people’, ‘the planet’, and ‘prosperity’.
• The resolution specifies mechanisms for the monitoring, review, and reporting of progress as a measure of accountability towards the people.
• Member-states submit a Voluntary National Review (VNR) to the UN’s High Level Political Forum (HLPF)
• VLRs is a means for driving and reporting local implementation of SDGs at the sub-national and city levels.

The Supreme Court of India:

• Citing Articles 14 ( equality before law and the equal protection of laws) a nd 21 (right to life and personal liberty) of the Indian Constitution as the sources.

Impact of the Court’s observation:

• It paves the way for legal accountability of climate action.
• Demand side: By invoking a more rights-based approach to climate action.
• Supply side: by encouraging integrated approaches and action between government, private sector and civil society.
• It takes forward the policy-driven approach of climate action in India couched in the National and State Action Plans on Climate Change .
• It has the intended benefits of enhancing state c apacities by driving allocation of funds, functions and functionaries.
• They have helped establish the strategic direction for national policies that go beyond meeting targets under global environmental conventions.
• Global North such as Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, Finland and South Korea
• Global South such as South Africa and the Philippines.

Impact of these laws:

• including a significant expansion in public sector resourcing.
• A framework law can help strengthen climate governance by building effective institutional frameworks and processes, enabling more ambitious climate action.
• It has the potential to provide for a more stringent and distributed accountability, and promote the exchange of knowledge and ideas.
• A forum that enables the sharing of best practices on implementation of policies can build coherence in policies and actions between States and Union Territories.

SDGs and localisation model:

●      india’s localisation model for the sustainable development goals (sdgs): it has successfully integrated the sdgs into local-level planning through multi-tiered and multi-stakeholder processes., ●      states and territories take ownership by creating their own sdg road maps and monitoring systems., ○      friendly competition among them spurs innovation and faster progress., ●      to ensure effective implementation, capacities of local governments are built., ●      the model encourages broader participation from businesses, non-governmental organizations, and citizens., ○      this has resulted in a more efficient and collaborative approach to achieve the sdgs., ●    it can build inter-ministerial and inter-sectoral approaches:, ○      example: one health initiative: it brought together 13 ministries and departments in the domains of health, environment, science and technology for disease control, research, and pandemic preparedness., ●      there is a need to expand this approach to the private sector o n integrating a rights-based approach to climate action in their core operations., ○      for example: the circular economy approaches need to engage with human rights compliant supply chains, including reverse logistics, to have a truly transformative impact..

The State of the Global Climate Report(WMO):

• It reveals that most climate change indicators reached record levels in 2023 .
• It confirmed 2023 to be the hottest year si nce we started recording global temperatures.
• Records were broken for ocean heat, sea level rise, Antarctic Sea ice loss and glacier retreat.

India and Climate Change:

• India has made rapid strides in decoupling emissions from economic growth.
• Reducing the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33% to 35% from 2005 level
• Achieving 40% cumulative electric power i nstalled capacity from non-fossil fuel sources.

Vulnerability to climate change:

• More than 80% of its population lives in districts t hat are at risk of climate-induced disasters.
• It affects livelihoods and food security
• It exacerbates existing socio-economic inequalities.

Way Forward

■    Rights-based dialogue: This pathway can leverage the court’s observation to empower citizen groups and civil society organizations in fostering a rights-based dialogue on environment, biodiversity and climate action.

■    within the ambit of environmental policy , it can build consensus on overcoming potential tensions between climate mitigation and action..

• Balancing conservation of the habitat of the Great Indian Bustard, a critically endangered bird species
• With developing solar energy parks to meet the country’s renewable energy targets.
• The idea of ‘Mother’ Earth has been embedded in India’s culture a nd traditions for centuries, regarding nature as a ‘living’ entity rather than just a resource.
• The Madras High Court(2022): A case on changing the classification of forest land, declared ‘Mother Nature’ a ‘living being’, granting it the status of a legal person with all corresponding rights, duties and liabilities, in order to preserve and conserve it.

QUESTION FOR PRACTICE

What is an Integrated Farming System ? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India?(UPSC 2022) (200 WORDS, 10 MARKS)

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