Q6. (a) “In Indian culture and value system, an equal opportunity has been provided irrespective of gender identity. The number of women in public service has been steadily increasing over the vears. Examine the gender-specific challenges faced by female public servants and suggest suitable measures to increase their efficiency in discharging their duties and maintaining high standards of probity. (Answer in 150 words) 10 Marks Introduction:

According to the Gender Gap Report, 2024, India ranks 129 out of 146 countries in terms of gender parity. In 1970, women made up 9% of those entering the IAS, that proportion currently 21% of serving IAS officers are women.

Gender-specific challenges faced by female public servants:

• Stereotyping women’s leadership: Female officers often face resistance and criticism in male-dominated environments.

E.g. Kiran Bedi, India’s first female IPS officer, faced opposition when introducing police reforms.

• Glass ceiling: Despite increased participation, few women reach top positions like Cabinet Secretary or Chief Secretary.

E.g. Women constitute only a small percentage of top-level bureaucracy.

• Motherhood penalty: Work-life balance is harder for women, especially with frequent transfers and postings.

E.g. Female officers often struggle to balance career progression with family responsibilities.

• Male-dominated work culture: Senior positions are often dominated by men, leading to exclusionary environments.

E.g. Women are frequently underrepresented in decision-making forums.

• Work-life imbalance: Long working hours and a lack of family-friendly policies exacerbate challenges for women.

E.g. The absence of policies like Australia’s Right to Disconnect affects women’s personal lives.

Measures to improve efficiency and probity for women

• Work-life balance: Introduce policies similar to Australia’s Right to Disconnect, ensuring no work-related calls or emails post-office hours.

E.g. Such measures help women manage family responsibilities better.

• Code of ethics for public servants: Implement a public services code of ethics to guide employees and ensure gender-sensitive decision-making.

E.g. The code would provide clear guidelines on ethical behavior and work culture.

• Addressing the glass ceiling: Enforce policies to increase female representation in top leadership roles.

E.g. Reservation for women in senior bureaucratic positions

• Flexible work policies: Provide flexible working hours and remote working options to support female public servants.

E.g. Work from home options.

• Ethical leadership and mentorship programs: Promote ethical leadership and mentorship for women to foster an inclusive environment.

E.g. Leadership of Smita Sabharwal and Durga Shakti Nagpal.

Conclusion:

“A nation’s progress is measured by how it treats its women.” Achieving gender parity in public service requires a comprehensive approach that removes structural barriers, enhances probity, and fosters an inclusive environment where female public servants can excel.