Traits to be a Civil Servant

According to E.N. Gladden, “A civil servant may be defined as a servant of the crown (not the politicians or judiciary), who is employed in a civil environment and whose remuneration is wholly paid by the parliament”.

Civil Services– pillar of the administrative system is considered to be one of the most prestigious positions in the society that comes with respect, greater responsibility, power and authority. No matter whether a person is rich or poor, wise or foolish, the one thing everyone would want is the power and authority. Civil servants are the professional body of officials who are skilled beyond imagination. Greater responsibilities some with greater positions!

Often people tend to take up UPSC or the Civil services just as another opportunity to get employed presuming government jobs are much more secure and consistent. But civil services cannot be taken for granted as just another break through to get settled in life. As the name speaks for itself, it is a service rendered to the civilians i.e., the common public which definitely ensures a highly mature and responsible persona. A civil service is not about the “social status” you earn for yourself and for your family. It includes the social status and well being of thousands of people for whom you have been appointed.

Can anyone be eligible to get into such an esteemed position?

Of course not, a civil servant would be role model for the whole region or department he is given charge of. The decisions made by him would reflect on the society. Such a role needs a greater dedication, focus, a mature and responsible thinking, not to forget right attitude, unbiased nature, independent, impartial and sharp decision making skills. Some of the qualities expected of every Civil servant:

• Supreme uprightness
• Befitting Conduct
• Sensible to People’s need
• Modesty/ Humility
• Volunteering to take up Responsibilities
• Commitment/Dedication
• Impartiality

A two-way interaction between the Civil servant and the society builds a strong bond between the two which can build a healthy society in turn prosperous state and country. A civil servant needs to make a difference in his course of action and always has to be in a continuous journey of upliftment.  Since the administration is active 24*7 there has to be constant monitoring of the situations such that everything is under control. The three M’s Man, Money, Machine should always be ready to handle any situation.

Autobiographies like “The Wings of fire” by APJ Abdul kalam provide adequate information on how a person in responsible situations should mould themselves. Such inspiring master minds can definitely make an impact on the behaviour. A person holding such a responsible position should always be someone who is unique and should stand out of the crowd. Holding head above and the power to raise high, making their vision reflecting on the society for which they work for, be proud to be an aspiring Civil Servant.