UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 11
Mr. X, a senior officer, was overseeing a critical vaccination programme during a pandemic. He found that a private service provider responsible for vaccine distribution was compromising on quality to make profits. Despite immense pressure to manage the issue due to vested interests, he raised his voice based on the principles of public administration which he learnt during various training programmes attended across his career. He reported the issue to the appropriate vigilance authority and halted the contract to ensure citizen welfare.
Which one among the following principles of public administration was most strongly demonstrated by Mr. X's actions?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct Option: C
Explanation: The officer exposed wrongdoing, reported it through oversight channels and accepted responsibility for protecting public welfare; this is accountability in administration.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - Esprit de corps means team spirit and solidarity; the action centred on answerability rather than group cohesion.
B: Incorrect - Equity concerns fair treatment, relevant to welfare but not the central principle demonstrated by reporting misconduct.
C: Correct - Accountability requires public officials and contractors to answer for conduct and face scrutiny for misuse or poor performance.
D: Incorrect - Delegation concerns assignment of authority to others; the official instead exercised oversight.