UPSC Mains 2025 Ethics Paper Revision Checklist: Top 15 ethical issues aspirants shouldn't miss for theory and case studies

Indian Express

2 days ago

Are You Mains Ready? With the UPSC CSE Mains 2025 beginning on August 22, Ethics paper is one which requires your special attention testing not just your ethical content but also writing skills. That's not all. UPSC has also been focusing on contemporary issues and raising ethical questions for candidates alongside conceptual themes. On closer observation, it appears that some recurring themes are indirectly related to the ethical dimensions of current affairs, even if UPSC does not mention them explicitly in the questions.
Therefore, the least that is expected from a candidate is to be aware of the burning issues in the social, political, cultural, and economic spheres, and to be able to view them through an ethical lens.
In a significant development, a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court reserved its interim order on managing the stray dog population in the National Capital Region (NCR). The court's move follows close on the heels of another bench's suo motu proceedings, which directed the relocation of stray dogs from public streets to designated shelters.
The directive has sparked protests, particularly from dog lovers and animal welfare groups. Where is this heading? Only time will tell. But beyond the legal and logistical debates, a deeper question remains: What does true compassion look like?
Be prepared to have your ethics tested — especially when comparing two simultaneous events through the lens of compassion. Recently, many lives were lost in the Uttarakhand landslide. But did cities like Delhi come together in empathy? Do we protest when one human hurts another? Do we cry out when stray dogs attack a child on the street?
Why is compassion not a social behavior? So, isn't it time we reclaim compassion—not as a rare virtue, but as a defining trait of our humanity?
Loving animals is human. But loving people, especially the elderly, the poor, and the vulnerable, is human too. Because compassion should never be selective.
These are questions worth asking and you are not expected to take any side but reflect.
Points to ponder:
1. When it comes to public policy, how can balance between compassion for animals and human safety and welfare be ensured?
2. How should a civil servant ensure that compassion plays an important role in decision-making during crises?
Refer: Can compassion bridge the gap between humans and animals?
A few months ago, when Infosys founder, Narayan Murthy talked about working seventy hours a week to fulfill the dream of a developed India, a debate erupted across the country about working hours. The chairman of Larsen & Toubro, SN Subrahmanyan, even said that if it were up to him, he would like to see his employees in the office even on Sundays—and not just for seventy hours, but for ninety hours a week.
This debate has impacted the work-life balance of every employee who leaves for the office at 8 a.m. and returns home around 8 or 9 p.m.—a twelve-hour workday. And even at home, WhatsApp and phone calls keep him connected to the office.
Work as a duty has ethical foundations. Work is worship, and it has been taught to all of us. But what about the modern day work-life? Why are work-life balance and leadership's role in fostering a healthy, productive, and humane work culture essential for work ethics? The debate also involves 'productivity vs. pressure', 'quantity vs. quality', role of leadership, stress, health, and the imbalance we ignore etc. when seeing work-life balance from the prism of work culture and work ethics.
Points to ponder:
1. What is the link between work-life balance and work ethics?
2. The ethical case for work-life balance goes beyond just time management. How?
Refer: Why is work-life balance vital for a healthy work culture?
Why is it so easy to copy and so difficult to give credit to the people or cultures behind an idea? A traditional Indian craft that left both an aesthetic and commercial footprint in Milan is hitting the headlines. These are the Kolhapuri chappals we all are familiar with. But what has disappointed many is that a well known brand, Prada failed to initially acknowledge the geographical origin and original artisans behind the Kolhapuri design. Instead of giving the due credit to the deserving, Prada added a vague note: 'Inspired by traditional Indian footwear.' On any ethics meter it is disrespectful and questions the integrity of an international brand.
The creative world has long battled issues of credit and originality. Today, we even have software to detect plagiarism and agencies to investigate such misconduct. So why is it so hard for people to think ethically before engaging in acts of malfeasance? Think on the lines of trust, credit, cultural integrity, and what it means when ethics are forgotten.
Points to ponder:
1. If someone is engaging in sophistry or behaving insidiously, how should we view their actions?
2. To what extent does the Prada–Kolhapuri chappals controversy highlight issues of cultural appropriation and ethical oversight in global branding?
Refer: The Prada–Kolhapuri chappals controversy: A case study in ethical branding
'Be you ever so high, the law is above you'. An incident in the news that has shocked both the legal world and society needs an ethical lens. The Supreme Court formally recommended the transfer of a Judge to his parent High Court following a fire at his residence on March 14. What turned the blaze into a national spectacle? Allegations that bundles of burnt currency were found in his home.
Episodes like these challenge the collective integrity of institutions and society; they test not just individuals, but the entire framework of trust. And that is the underlying truth we must grasp when analyzing such news in the media. Moreover, as a student of ethics who is expected to lead an ethical public life, you are expected to closely observe such incidents through a moral lens. In such cases, you must ask—or UPSC might, indirectly, without mentioning the incident—its most popular ethics-style question: in the grand theatre of law and justice, what role does ethics really play?
Even the Supreme Court recently reminded all of us about public trust and constitutional oath through a recent case related to the power of Governors to deal with Bills presented to them. The Court said, 'Hence, any action contrary to the express choice of the people, in other words, the state legislature, would be a renege of the constitutional oath…We find it apposite to observe that constitutional authorities occupying high office must be guided by the values of the constitution.'
Point to ponder: What is the cornerstone of judicial integrity?
Refer: What is the cornerstone of judicial integrity?
The Ranveer Allahbadia controversy made headlines, news and noise. Apart from other things, the debate also revolved around a basic ethical question which is more relevant in today's time: Does being an influencer mean 'Free Thinking' minus the 'Values'?
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 19) states, 'Everyone has the right to freedom and opinion.' In simple ways, it affirms the right to freedom of expression but where to draw the moral boundaries? Morality in communication is similar to morality elsewhere, the ones which we have been reading and writing in the Ethics simplified series since the beginning. Family values in moral communication are an integral part too. Immoral communication can often be subjective and culturally relative, but universal values still exist. One of these values is human dignity, as well as the relationship between parents and children, which forms the foundation of family values.
The YouTuber's comments challenged these values and sparked concern about the impact of online content on children. This incident also reminds us of the growing influence of social media and how it impacts our daily lives. If the expressions of influencers are the new 'normal' of the online world, are we ready for this shift?
Point to ponder: Are the influencers' expressions merely reflections of society, or are they shaping it?
Refer: Core of the Ranveer Allahbadia row: Who is an Influencer—and who isn't?
The recent talks between the US and Ukrainian presidents have drawn global attention, sparking questions about whether this is the right approach for leaders to address a situation that continues to impact lives. Should leaders revisit the ethics of International Relations?
How should global leadership address war or talk to opposing parties in conflicts? Many would argue that it should be with a combination of national interest, strategic foresight, and sharp diplomacy. After all, it is an opportunity to show that you are a 'world leader.' Is it? There are many aspects of ethics in international relations. We shall address the most urgent one today. When we discuss the ethics of war—jus ad bellum (when it's just to go to war) and jus in bello (how war should be conducted)—both emerge as perennial issues. In practice, we often focus on international diplomacy in these discussions, but perhaps we should begin by asking global leaders a more fundamental question: what is the moral ground for war?
It's time for the heads of the states to revisit the basics of ethics in international relations. How can we shift the conversation of world leaders toward emphasizing peace over conflict in the context of ethics in international relations by reevaluating the fundamental principles that guide diplomatic interactions?
Point to ponder: How can world leaders employ ethical principles to resolve global conflicts and prevent wars?
Refer: What should world leaders know about ethics in International Relations?
Whether it is Russia-Ukraine or the Middle East – wars have been in constant news. But it is not enough to read about the ongoing wars from the newspapers and update your current affairs notes. Go beyond the headlines and add an ethical dimension to your thinking.Can we justify war? Does Ethics have any role to play in any war?
We saw our country too facing a conflict, yet again—one defined by terrorism and uncertainty. In response to terrorism, our armed forces carried out an unparalleled mission—Operation Sindoor—which successfully destroyed numerous terrorist hideouts. India stood united, demonstrating a powerful surge of patriotic fervour in one voice.
Undoubtedly, the Indian Armed Forces once again proved to the world that a soldier embodies patriotism, and patriotism lives through the soldier. In India, patriotism wears a uniform.
The daily press conferences served as a testament to this truth. A soldier is trained to fight and defend the nation—and, without hesitation, is prepared to lay down his or her life for the protection of the motherland. But what about the civilians?
It is also important to address another pressing issue — unity and brotherhood in times of adversity, especially in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attacks.
Point to ponder:
What is patriotism? Is there a difference between the patriotism of a soldier and that of a civilian? Discuss.
Discuss: 'Never think that war, no matter how necessary, nor how justified, is not a crime.' — Ernest Hemingway, 1946
Environment and ethics is one of the most important areas that we must be prepared to answer. One of the worrisome issues every year is air pollution. Let's try to see this dark world of man-created pollution. For a farmer, their fields, gardens, and nests are that piece of land under the open sky. Now the question is whether it is fair to put all the blame on them for that stubble burning. Many industries are using garbage for generating energy and thus helping the people and environment. Why can we not create a system through a public-private partnership to buy all Stubble from farmers in advance? Is it so difficult? We have witnessed the goodness in decision-making for human beings at the time of COVID when vaccination became a possibility for the whole nation.
Recently the Supreme Court asked whether children of tenth and twelfth have different kinds of lungs. The Supreme Court asked all state governments in Delhi & NCR to close the schools. Why do we wait for the Supreme Court to take all calls for goodness and humanity too? Is compassion and care not a part of ethical decision-making at various levels in institutions? If yes, why then wait for the judiciary to intervene? Compassionate governance for a developing country like India is a must and decision-making must be done with a steadfast approach to human relationships. Law can be coded in letter and spirit by courts but general compassion and care have to be part of governance and normal life.
Point to ponder: What ethical responsibilities do we owe future generations when it comes air quality?
Refer: Why applying ethics to air pollution is the need of the hour?
What fosters India's unity in diversity, bringing us all closer and making us happier? One answer to this question is — the culture of sports. The sports culture undoubtedly unifies us all, across lines of age, gender, class, religion, caste, socio-economic status, educational qualifications, and against all biases in our society. So the obvious questions that you must have answers when talking about sports ethics: Can sports entertain and enlighten? Can sports be a mirror of moral values? Also, what does sportsmanship mean for all those who are watching a sport?
What must also be kept in mind that There was an unfortunate tragedy just after the IPL this year. The Bengaluru stampede, where joy turned tragic at the he cost of celebration. And yes, cricket won, but it would have been a great celebration if those lives had been saved. And more so if the celebration had paused and that sensitivity and urgency had emerged.
Points to ponder:
1. Is sports more than a game — A reflection of ethics and the human spirit? Discuss.
2. Sports also teach us righteousness and responsible ways to handle defeat. Do the spectators across the globe and even in our country have shown that kind of maturity on the edge of defeat? What lessons of self-conduct do we take in times of failure or especially when we are victorious?
Refer: What does IPL offer beyond entertainment, glamour and money?
How should spectators behave according to sports ethics?
Our society should be deeply rooted in the constitutional values that ensure the protection of the common citizen while paving a clear path for policies designed to uplift the nation. Constitution Day is not merely a commemoration; it is a profound reminder of our shared duty to uphold the ideals of freedom, equality, fraternity, and justice. It is a call to remember that the Constitution exists for the people, guaranteeing them safety, dignity, and a fair chance in a thriving, inclusive democracy like India.
As we celebrate 75 years of the Indian Constitution, we witness an evolution in the very essence of justice. The image of the Goddess of Justice no longer requires a sword to enforce authority or a blindfold to signify impartiality. As former Chief Justice of India remarked, the law must not remain blind. Instead, it must gaze openly and equally upon all citizens, ensuring justice is administered with clarity, empathy, and fairness.
This should lead us to think : Why must we embody these values, not just in actions but in ethical spirit?
True justice does not reside in the vestiges of colonial legacies but in the relentless pursuit of civil rights and the moral compass outlined by our Constitution. For civil servants, this is not just an aspiration—it is a mandate. Their role is to work with integrity, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Constitutional values are the foundation of a just society, ensuring dignity, fairness, and equality for all, irrespective of identity. These values are not abstract ideals; they are the lifeblood of society. Integrity shapes public trust, and ethical decisions grounded in constitutional values manifest the democratic ideals we strive to uphold. These constitutional values indispensable. Also take a moment to remember the journey of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and how it offers profound lessons in justice and equality.
Point to ponder: What ethical standards should civil servants hold themselves to in order to maintain the integrity of the Constitution, especially in a diverse democracy like India? Discuss in the light of Ambedkar's remark that a Constitution is only as good as the people who implement it.
Refer: What should Civil Services aspirants know about constitutional values in contemporary times?
No matter how difficult an issue is to be viewed through the lens of ethics, knowing the basics is most important. In reference to Ethics, Aptitude, and Integrity (GS Paper 4), understanding values is crucial not only for your exams but also for life in general. When it comes to aspiring for civil services, the foundational values of civil services should not be overlooked by an aspirant. News on corruption in bureaucracy is very common that you come across. At the same time there is no lack of success and positive stories of ethical civil servants. We must look for them too. The Indian Civil Service stands as a cornerstone of our democracy, deeply rooted in ethical values that ensure not only efficiency at work but also pave a clear path for service aimed at uplifting the nation, its institutions, and individuals.
While searching for cardinal values in human life and governance, one often wonders whether they are different from each other — or if human life is somehow separate from the life of a civil servant. But before diving into this deeper question on ethics, one must start with the basics.
The role of values in objective and ethical decision-making is huge in a life of a civil servant. Empathy, integrity, and commitment in public service is pre-requisite to remain true to one's job. Becoming a civil servant with integrity and purpose is what every candidate should eye for. These are some of the values in governance and life of a civil servant that aspirants are expected to know.
Point to ponder: How are universal human values foundational to civil services as well? Discuss two such values with examples from the life of a civil servant.
Refer: What are the foundational values of civil services?
What makes a civil servant ethical?
Ethical considerations and robust governance frameworks are essential as technology advances rapidly. Cybersecurity is the biggest challenge that the world faces today. Rising crime (financial fraud, identity theft, ransomware etc.) and weak regulatory framework doesn't just pose problems on governance level but is an ethical issue to be addressed. Ethical considerations extend to various facets of technology, including data privacy, surveillance, cybersecurity, intellectual property rights, and the digital divide. Dr BVR Mohan Reddy, founder chairman of Cyient, a multinational tech firm said (as reported in The Indian Express) that robust frameworks are 'essential for building trust, promoting equitable access, and safeguarding the well-being of individuals and society as a whole'.
Noting that Artificial intelligence (AI) is a plausible 'ethical minefield', Dr Reddy added, 'AI algorithms possess tremendous power, capable of making critical decisions that impact our lives… The ethical dilemma lies in ensuring that these AI systems are fair, unbiased, and accountable. We must prevent the perpetuation of discrimination, preserve human dignity, and ensure transparency in AI decision-making by holding AI systems accountable for their actions…'
Aspirants are expected to address concerns such as bias, privacy, security, and accountability. No one denies the power of technology to transform lives but recognising the ethical dilemmas is equally important.
Point to ponder: In an increasingly digital world, how should ethical principles guide the handling of cybersecurity challenges?
Can politics and ethics go hand in hand? This topic will always be relevant. As you know well, we are living in an age of politics. For Chanakya, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and other philosophers, politics has been a central subject of discussion and even today it easily occupies the cognitive space of mortals. There is something unique even in a country like ours. People love to absorb themselves in political analysis and rarely refrain from passing any political opinion. However, for a bureaucrat, it is not the same. They keep a distance while in service to comment or pass an opinion, and focus more on becoming a bridge between politics and public or policies and benefits.
Ideally we must firmly believe that politics and ethics can go together, particularly in a democracy like India or other democratic countries. However, there have been several incidents after independence in India and even globally which asserts this conviction a bit faintly.
Point to ponder: Doing politics is different from being in politics. Do you agree? Do ethics and politics belong to different worlds?
Refer: Politics and ethics: The concept
This isn't a standalone topic. It is the most recurring theme in the paper. Ethical issues related to gender in India span across social, economic, political, legal, and cultural dimensions. A closer analysis reveals that they are deeply rooted in inequalities and moral questions about fairness, autonomy, justice, and dignity. Gender-based violence, female foeticide, pay gap and job inequality, political underrepresentation, personal law disparities, transgender marginalization, workplace harassment, menstrual stigma, and caste-gender intersection are a few examples.
These gender issues raise many core ethical concerns: dignity, justice, bodily autonomy, health rights, safety, respect, right to life, fairness, economic justice, equality, participatory justice, inclusion, etc.
Expect a question that may directly test your ethical response to a situation-based topic in the news (possibly through a case study) or a general question assessing your ethical foundations on gender issues.
Point to ponder: Discuss the ethical challenges related to gender equality in India. How can public servants promote fairness and dignity across gender issues?
There are several evolving ethical issues in parent–children relationships in today's time. These are mostly shaped by rapid social, cultural, and technological changes. These issues often revolve around autonomy, control, privacy, generational conflict, and value systems. Academic pressure and the mental health of children, neglect or abandonment of elderly parents, overparenting or helicopter parenting, enforcing choices, digital disconnect and value gaps, gender bias in parenting, and raising children in a materialistic world are some of the key concerns.
Every day, the newspaper carries at least one headline mentioning a tragic episode related to one of the above issues. Deeply rooted in the society we live in, these issues require an ethical perspective.
Point to ponder: What are the ethical responsibilities of parents in nurturing values and autonomy in their children in today's rapidly changing society?
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