Q. “For any kind of social re-engineering by successfully implementing welfare schemes, a civil servant must use reason and critical thinking in an ethical framework.” Justify this statement with suitable examples.

Model Answer:

Social re-engineering through welfare schemes requires transforming societal structures to rectify historical injustices and foster inclusive growth. Civil servants, as implementation agents, must employ reason, critical thinking, and ethical principles to translate policies into tangible impact.

Why Reason and Critical Thinking are Essential:

• Evidence-based targeting: Using data to identify genuine beneficiaries ensures optimal resource allocation. Example: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao – identifying low sex-ratio districts

• Adapting to local contexts: Critical thinking helps customize universal schemes to regional needs. Example: Swachh Bharat – addressing behavioral change beyond toilet construction

• Innovation in implementation: Rational problem-solving creates sustainable solutions. Example: IAS Armstrong Pame – community-funded Manipur road

Ethical Framework as Foundation:

• Ensuring equity and justice: Ethical conduct guarantees benefits reach the most vulnerable. Example: Smita Sabharwal – PDS digitalization preventing leakages

• Resisting undue pressures: Moral courage upholds rule of law despite political interference. Example: Durga Shakti Nagpal – confronting sand mafia

• Building public trust: Transparent implementation encourages citizen participation. Example: DBT in MGNREGS – direct wage transfers

These intellectual tools prevent:
– Elite capture of benefits
– Populist but ineffective schemes
– Perpetuation of structural inequalities
– Corruption and implementation gaps

Conclusion: Reason, critical thinking, and ethics transform welfare schemes from mere programs into instruments of lasting social change.