• Explain which will be the end oriented values;
• Explain which will be the means oriented values.

In this scenario, Mr. X must uphold both end-oriented values (focused on the overall goals of public welfare) and means-oriented values (focused on ethical methods of achieving those goals) while managing the project and addressing the concerns of the marginal farmers.

a) End-Oriented Values

End-oriented values define the final goals Mr. X should achieve in the public interest:

A. Public Welfare:

• The primary aim of the irrigation project is to improve water accessibility and agricultural output to combat long-standing drought, enhancing overall public welfare.
• According to the 2nd ARC, public welfare is the foremost duty of a civil servant, stressing that “public office is a public trust.”
• This aligns with Nolan’s Principle of Selflessness, which mandates that officials make decisions that benefit the public rather than personal gain.
• Exemplary Case: E. Sreedharan, known as the “Metro Man,” exemplified this focus on public benefit in his work on the Delhi Metro, where his commitment to public welfare superseded personal or corporate interests.

B. Equity and Inclusivity:

• The project’s goal is to ensure that the benefits reach all sections of society, especially marginalized communities, such as the small and marginal farmers affected by the land acquisition.
• The 2nd ARC emphasizes the need to foster an “inclusive governance” approach, where marginalized communities receive special consideration.
• John Rawls supported this value in his Theory of Justice, asserting that “justice as fairness” should drive actions that favor the least advantaged, emphasizing the moral responsibility of equitable treatment.

C. Sustainable Development:

• Sustainability is essential to ensure that the project benefits future generations without causing long-term environmental harm.
• Mahatma Gandhi emphasized, “The earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs but not every man’s greed,” underscoring the ethical imperative of sustainability in public projects.
• Exemplary Case: I.A.S. officer Armstrong Pame, known as the “Miracle Man,” exemplified sustainable development through his road construction project in Manipur, which served generations without environmental degradation.

D. Economic Growth:

• The project’s end goal includes promoting regional economic development through increased agricultural productivity, benefiting the district’s economy and quality of life.
• Nolan’s Principle of Objectivity is relevant here, urging officials to make unbiased decisions based on measurable outcomes like economic growth, ensuring projects genuinely benefit the populace without favoritism.

b) Means-Oriented Values

Means-oriented values focus on ethical methods and transparent processes:

A. Compassion and Empathy:

• Mr. X should approach the land acquisition process with empathy, recognizing the dependence of marginal farmers on their land.
  • The 2nd ARC identifies compassion as a core value, recommending that civil servants prioritize public welfare with sensitivity to the hardships of vulnerable communities.
  • Philosopher Immanuel Kant argued that “acting in a way that respects the dignity of every individual” is fundamental, guiding civil servants to consider the personal impacts of administrative actions.
  • Exemplary Case: IAS officer K.J. Alphons, known for his compassionate approach in land acquisition for the Delhi Metro, ensured minimal hardship by actively engaging with affected residents.

B. Transparency and Accountability:

• Keeping the landholders informed and involving them in decision-making processes builds trust and reduces resistance.
• The Nolan Committee’s Principle of Accountability advocates for civil servants to be answerable for their actions, ensuring that the public is fully aware of project plans and processes.
• The 2nd ARC emphasizes “proactive disclosure” and transparency to prevent administrative decisions from being perceived as coercive.
• Exemplary Case: S.R. Sankaran, an IAS officer known as the “People’s IAS Officer,” practiced transparency by openly engaging with tribal communities, earning their trust and ensuring effective policy implementation.

C. Fair Compensation and Rehabilitation:

• Fair and timely compensation, along with rehabilitation support, embodies the principles of fairness and justice, essential for ethical land acquisition.
• Nolan’s Principle of Integrity requires that public officials act honestly and fairly, especially in matters impacting livelihoods.
• The 2nd ARC recommends ensuring the livelihood security of displaced persons, treating them as equal stakeholders in the development process.
• Exemplary Case: Durga Shakti Nagpal, known for her integrity, ensured that sand mining victims received due compensation and upheld fair practices, despite local opposition.

D. Public Participation:

• Active involvement of the affected farmers in the decision-making process reflects democratic governance values.
• The 2nd ARC encourages participatory governance, where public input is integral to administrative decision-making, enhancing legitimacy and acceptance.
• Philosopher John Stuart Mill advocated for “participation in governance as a path to greater social happiness,” highlighting how involving stakeholders in decisions fosters societal goodwill.

By upholding these end- and means-oriented values, supported by ethical frameworks and historical examples, Mr. X can fulfill his duty with integrity and ensure that the irrigation project serves public welfare while respecting the rights and needs of the affected farmers.

Check out  UPSC Coaching Centre Guwahati | APSC Coaching Centre Guwahati | Crack APSC Exam | UPSC Civil Services Exam | Ethics Paper in UPSC Exams