Civil services in India play a crucial role in governance but face several challenges that hinder their effectiveness. These challenges range from political interference to issues with accountability and expertise.
Relevance : GS 4(Civil Service Ethics)
Challenges Faced by the Civil Services
- Erosion of Neutrality: Increasing political interference has led to a decline in bureaucratic impartiality.
- Political Influence in Postings/Transfers: Excessive control by the political executive affects morale and independence.
- Lack of Domain Expertise: Generalist bureaucrats often lack technical knowledge required for specialized roles.
- Corruption: Persistent corruption at various levels, often unpunished, hampers trust and effectiveness.
- Outcome Deficiency: The bureaucracy remains focused on procedures and inputs, rather than measurable outcomes and impact.
- Resistance to Reform: Institutional inertia and internal resistance slow down administrative innovation and reform.
Frameworks Under Which the Bureaucracy Functions
- Merit System: Recruitment through competitive exams (e.g., UPSC) ensures selection based on merit and aims to create a politically neutral, professional cadre.
- Rule of Law and Constitutionalism: Bureaucrats are expected to uphold constitutional values, provide independent advice, and implement government policies lawfully.
- Democratic Mandate: While respecting the authority of elected representatives, civil services are expected to function impartially and without fear or favour.
- Permanent Executive: Acts as a stabilizing institution during political transitions (e.g., during President’s Rule or elections).
- Public Accountability Mechanism: Though often weak in practice, the bureaucracy is expected to be accountable through legislative oversight, administrative rules, and citizen engagement.
- Lateral Entry (Reform-Oriented Framework): Involves inclusion of domain experts into senior roles to bridge the expertise gap and drive reform.
