A case study is a comprehensive and in-depth examination of a particular subject, often within its real-life context. It serves as a methodological tool to explore, analyze, and understand complex issues or phenomena, ranging from individual experiences to organizational challenges. Typically employed in various academic disciplines, business settings, and scientific research, a case study involves an extensive investigation that aims to provide a detailed account of the subject under scrutiny. By delving into the intricate details of a specific case, researchers can uncover valuable insights, draw conclusions, and offer practical solutions. This method offers a holistic approach, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted factors influencing the subject, making it an invaluable tool for gaining knowledge and informing decision-making processes.
Q8. As a senior officer in the Ministry, you have access to important policy decisions and upcoming big announcements such as road construction projects before they are notified in the public domain. The Ministry is about to announce a mega road project for which the drawings are already in place. Sufficient care was taken by the planners to make use of the government land with the minimum land acquisition from private parties. Compensation rate for private parties was also finalized as per government rules. Care was also taken to minimize deforestation. Once the project is announced, it is expected that there will be a huge spurt in real estate prices in and around that area.
Meanwhile, the Minister concerned insists that you realign the road in such a way that it comes closer to his 20 acres farmhouse. He also suggests that he would facilitate the purchase of a big plot of land in your wife’s name at the prevailing rate which is very nominal, in and around the proposed mega road project. He also tries to convince you by saying that there is no harm in it as he is buying the land legally. He even promises to supplement your savings in case you do not have sufficient funds to buy the land. However, by the act of realignment, a lot of agricultural lands has to be acquired, thereby causing a considerable financial burden on the government, and also the displacement of the farmers. As if this is not enough, it will involve cutting down a large number of trees denuding the area of its green cover.
Faced with this situation, what will you do? Critically examine various conflicts of interest and explain what your responsibilities are as a public servant. (250 Words, 20 Marks)
Tag: Case Study
Decoding the Question:
- In Introduction, try to write a case summary.
- In Body,
- Mention the stakeholders involved.
- Discuss the conflict of interest that arises.
- Discuss your responsibilities and your take being a civil servant.
- In Conclusion,try to write a neutral opinion.
Answer:
Case Summary:
This is a case of political interference and conflict of interest if he uses inside information for private gain. Using inside information is also seen as a conflict of interest even if one is not a direct beneficiary. A Public Servant is needed to serve the greater public interest, save the government resources wherever it is possible and help realise the sustainable development goals.
Stakeholders Involved:
- I, as a senior scientific officer in the Ministry.
- Private parties, with whom the government deals as the government roles.
- The Minister who insists to realign the road in such a way that it comes closer to his 20 acres farmhouse.
- Farmers.
As a senior officer in the Ministry I have certain authorities and with authority, there are responsibilities towards society.
In the above case, there are certain conflicts of interest:
- My economic interest vs. interest of farmers: The offer of the Minister will strengthen me economically, but it will also result in great loss to the farmers as large displacement of farmers will take place. Moreover, my ethical values do not allow me to favor the Minister and thus I will stand with the original project.
- Minister’s interest vs. professional interest: If I do not consider the Minister’s proposal, it may cost me. Disregarding his wish will irritate him and I may have to pay a cost – maybe in the form of an unfavorable transfer. Considering his proposal, I will benefit in future with higher posts. But I will prepare myself for the impending situation and I will take the decision in favor of the society, not the Minister.
- My economic interest and that of minister vs. environment: Our combined interest is very harmful for the environment as it may result in cutting down a large number of trees denuding the area of its green cover. As a responsible public servant, I shall keep aside the vested interests and shall consider the original project.
- Minister’s interest vs. financial burden on the Government: Minister’s proposal will cause financial burden on government as more money and labor will be needed for realigning the road. Instead, this money can be used for other welfare programmes.
- Moral Conflict: Till now, I have done my services on moral values and with honesty and accepting the offer will rob me of my mental peace. It will also degrade my values which are my pillars of strength. For fulfilling my economic needs, the salary provided to me from the Government is enough.
As a responsible civil servant having faced with this situation, i will
- I will continue to implement the road project as planned rather than buckling under the minister’s pressure or getting alluded to by personal gains.
It is because, It is expected from a civil servant to serve the larger public interest, save government resources wherever it is possible and help realise the goal of sustainable development. So, in this situation
- As a responsible public servant, I shall keep aside the vested interests and shall consider the original project.
Agreeing to the minister may improve my fortunes and the minister may also benefit in the future in several ways. However, this greed and connivance is not desirable as it defies the people’s trust and national interest and leads to loss of a lot of arable land and destitution. It will also lead to loss to the government exchequer and it would be detrimental to the environment as it involves cutting down large numbers of trees.
Moreover, being in a more responsible position, My decision will have ramifications on many lives. Hence, acting ethically is the most reasonable choice.
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