Volume : IV, Issue : I, January - 2014

Good Governance: Promotion of Ethics and Moral Values

Dr. Mandeep Gaur

Abstract :

In the last few years issues of good governance have been receiving considerable attention in the political discourse in India. Presently, a set of strategies to achieve good governance is being put forward by international lending agencies such as the world bank as also by our own government. Andhra Pradesh has even set up a centre for good governance to guide reforms in the state and train the officials.

In ancient India, good governance was conceptualized as Ram Rajya. The cardinal maxim of be good and do good was applied to all the realms, whether personal or professional; and the governmental system was no exception. Kautilya in his magnum opus (Arthashastra) exhorted the rulers to be compassionate to their subjects.

In modern India, more and more citizens are becoming educated, enlightened and aware of their rights. Hence, ethics in governance are attracting attention of all the people who talk of good governance. Actually, good governance is a value laden concept. The word good is derived from the word God and carries an innate sense of judgement, i.e. what is right and what is wrong; what is just and what is unjust. So when the judgement or deed is just or right -- it is good. In the context of good governance, it means right or just or moral judgement made by those exerting authority in the public interest.

The overall objective of morality is to ensure good governance with prime concern for moral values, practices and behaviour. These moral values are inculcated in an individual by her parents, teachers, religion, society and the environment of workplace.

The essential duty of governance is to effectively and equitably implement what is called the social contract. Hence, it demands a highly competent, well informed and cå administration. In envisages the government institutions to become innovative, participatory and have a good deal of sound policy formulation, open-mindedness, and distinct citizen orientation.

The promotion of ethics and moral values in good governance implies legality of government action, rationality in policy and decision making, evolving a sense of responsibility, ensuring accountability, strengthening work commitment, creating excellence, facilitating spirit of individual and organizational goals, developing responsiveness, showing compassion, protecting the national interests, safeguarding the spirit of justice, inging transparency and elevating integrity. Actually, these values expect the masters of ancient India to be the civil servants of modern India that are guided by a spirit of service.

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Article: Download PDF   DOI : 10.36106/ijar  

Cite This Article:

Dr. Mandeep Gaur Good Governance: Promotion of Ethics and Moral Values Indian Journal of Applied Research, Vol.IV, Issue. I

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