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Introduction:

The conduct of officers in the All India Services (IAS, IPS, and Indian Forest Service) is strictly regulated from the moment they are inducted into service and begin their training.

As per Rule 3(1) of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, officers are required to maintain “absolute integrity and devotion to duty” and refrain from any actions that could be considered unbecoming of a service member.

Body:

Rule 4(1) Details on Conduct:

  • Officers are explicitly prohibited from using their position or influence to secure employment for any family member in private firms or NGOs.
  • Example: An officer using their influence to get a relative a job in a private company would be a violation of this rule.

2014 Sub-rules on Ethical Standards:

  • The government added provisions emphasizing the need for high ethical standards, integrity, honesty, political neutrality, accountability, transparency, responsiveness to the public, especially weaker sections, and courteous behavior.
  • Example: An officer ensuring transparency in decision-making processes, particularly when dealing with vulnerable communities, aligns with these ethical standards.

Rule 11(1) on Accepting Gifts:

  • Officers are allowed to accept gifts from close relatives or personal friends on special occasions like weddings or religious functions.
  • However, gifts exceeding Rs 25,000 in value must be reported to the government.
  • Example: If an officer receives a high-value gift during a family wedding, they are obligated to declare it if it exceeds the set monetary threshold.

Conduct During Probation:

  • Probationers are subject to additional guidelines during their two-year probation period, including specific rules during their training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA).
  • During probation, officers receive a fixed salary and travel allowance but do not enjoy all benefits that confirmed officers receive.
  • Rule 12 outlines the conditions under which a probationer may be discharged, such as failure to pass the probationary exam or displaying conduct unbecoming of a service member.
  • Example: A probationer neglecting their studies or duties may face discharge under these guidelines.

Conclusion:

  • A 1993 DoPT circular mandates that any government servant found to have provided false information or forged certificates to secure their position should be dismissed, even if they have already been confirmed in service.
  • Example: If an officer is found to have submitted false documents during recruitment, they could be removed from service regardless of their tenure.
  • Additionally, since the 1995 batch, reservations have been made for OBCs (27%) and for differently-abled individuals (3%) across all categories (General, OBC, SC, ST), further ensuring inclusivity in the services.
Legacy Editor Changed status to publish August 27, 2024