GS4 · UPSC Mains
Arun, renowned for his integrity and dedication, has recently assumed the role of Superintendent at a state Pollution Control Board. This posting, his fourth in just one year, includes the responsibility of overseeing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). In his new position, Arun becomes aware of a copper smelting plant situated near a crucial wetland that serves as the primary water source for the region. Despite the plant's notorious reputation for heavy pollution, the current EIA, presented to Arun by the Chairperson, indicates no significant impact on the wetland. The next assessment is not scheduled for another two years. One day, Arun receives a letter from a politician affiliated with the opposition party. The letter contains evidence suggesting that the current EIA results are based on falsified lab reports, allegedly approved by the Chairperson. The Chairperson is known to have close ties with the ruling party, which has been receiving substantial donations from the plant's operators. The opposition politician urges Arun to expose the Chairperson from within the department, arguing that this approach could effectively pressurize the government to conduct a new EIA. He promises Arun significant rewards and support once their party comes to power, an outcome suggested by recent opinion polls. While the evidence presented is compelling, Arun remains cautious about the possibility of being exploited as a political pawn. He is acutely aware of the potential consequences of his actions, both for his career and for the environment. (a) In light of the above case, discuss the ethical issues that may arise from the nexus between corporate, political, and bureaucratic interests. (b) As a conscientious civil servant, evaluate the options available to Arun. Which option should he choose and why? (Answer in 250 words)
GS4 · Aptitude & foundational values for civil service — integrity, impartiality, non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication, empathy, tolerance & compassion
| Topper | Rank | Source | Copy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saichaitanya Jadhav | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Mudita Agarwal | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Teshukant | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Ram Niwas Siyag | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Rajnish Patel | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Trilok Singh | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Prachi Gupta | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Abhishek Anjani Singh | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Shilpa Chauhan | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Jitendra Kumawat | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Abhigyan Khaund | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Saloni Gautam | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Rajkesh Meena | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Khetdan Charan | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |
| Utkarsh Pathak | — | VisionIAS | p.58 |