The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) Mains 2025 GS 4 (Ethics) has concluded, and aspirants are now eagerly analyzing the question papers to understand the examination trends and prepare for future attempts. Among all the papers, GS 4 paper (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude) holds a special significance as it serves as a potential game-changer and rank-booster in the final merit list.
Unlike other GS papers that primarily test factual knowledge, GS Paper 4 evaluates a candidate's moral compass, ethical reasoning, and problem-solving approach to complex administrative dilemmas. This paper is meticulously designed to assess not just what candidates know about ethics, but how they apply ethical principles in real-world scenarios they'll face as future civil servants.
The PDF download link for UPSC CSE Mains 2025 GS 4 Question paper is available below for aspirants preparing for UPSC CSE 2026 and beyond.
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UPSC Mains GS 4 Ethics Question Paper
SECTION 'A'
1(a). In the present digital age, social media has revolutionised our way of communication and interaction. However, it has raised several ethical issues and challenges. Describe the key ethical dilemmas in this regard. (Answer in 150 words) 10
1(b). "Constitutional morality is not a natural sentiment but a product of civil education and adherence of the rule of law." Examine the significance of constitutional morality for public servant highlighting the role in promoting good governance and ensuring accountability in public administration. (Answer in 150 words) 10
2(a). Carl von Clausewitz once said, "War is a diplomacy by other means." Critically analyse the above statement in the present context of contemporary geo-political conflict. (Answer in 150 words) 10
2(b). Keeping the national security in mind, examine the ethical dilemmas related to controversies over environmental clearance of development projects in ecologically sensitive border areas in the country. (Answer in 150 words) 10
3. Given below are three quotations of great thinkers. What do each of these quotations convey to you in the present context?
3(a). "Those who in trouble untroubled are, Will trouble trouble itself." – Thiruvalluvar (Answer in 150 words) 10
3(b). "The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes." – William James (Answer in 150 words) 10
3(c). "The strength of a society is not in its laws, but in the morality of its people." – Swami Vivekananda (Answer in 150 words) 10
4(a). "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. (Answer in 150 words) 10
4(b). What are the major teachings of Mahavir? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world. (Answer in 150 words) 10
5(a). "One who is devoted to one’s duty attains highest perfection in life." Analyse this statement with reference to sense of responsibility and personal fulfilment as a civil servant. (Answer in 150 words) 10
5(b). To achieve holistic development goal, a civil servant acts as an enabler and active facilitator of growth rather than a regulator. What specific measures will you suggest to achieve this goal? (Answer in 150 words) 10
6(a). It is said that for an ethical work culture, there must be code of ethics in place in every organisation. To ensure value-based and compliance-based work culture, what suitable measures would you adopt in your work place? (Answer in 150 words) 10
6(b). India is an emerging economic power of the world as it has recently secured the status of fourth largest economy of the world as per IMF projection. However, it has been observed that in some sectors, allocated funds remain either under-utilised or misutilised. What specific measures would you recommend for ensuring accountability in this regard to stop leakages and gaining the status of third largest economy of the world in near future? (Answer in 150 words) 10
SECTION 'B'
7. Case Study
Vijay was Deputy Commissioner of remote district of Hilly Northern State of the country for the last two years. In the month of August heavy rains lashed the complete state followed by cloud burst in the upper reaches of the said district. The damage was very heavy in the complete state especially in the affected district. The complete road network and telecommunication were disrupted and the buildings were damaged extensively. People’s houses have been destroyed and they were forced to stay in open. More than 200 people have been killed and about 5000 were badly injured. The Civil Administration under Vijay got activated and started conducting rescue and relief operations. Temporary shelter camps and hospitals were established to provide shelter and medical facilities to the homeless and injured people. Helicopter services were pressed in, for evacuating sick and old people from remote areas. Vijay got a message from his hometown in Kerala that his mother was seriously sick. After two days Vijay received the unfortunate message that his mother has expired. Vijay has no close relative except one elder sister who was US citizen and staying there for last several years. In the meantime, the situation in the affected district deteriorated further due to resumption of heavy rains after a gap of five days. At the same time, continuous messages were coming on his mobile from his hometown to reach at the earliest for performing last rites of his mother.
(a) What are the options available with Vijay?
(b) What are the ethical dilemma being faced by Vijay?
(c) Critically evaluate and examine each of these options identified by Vijay.
(d) Which of the options, do you think, would be most appropriate for Vijay to adopt and why?
(Answer in 250 words) 20
8. Case Study
In line with the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Indian Constitution, the government has a constitutional obligation to ensure basic needs – “Roti, Kapda aur Makan (Food, Clothes and Shelter)” – for the under-privileged. Pursuing this mandate, the district administration proposed clearing a portion of forest land to develop housing for the homeless and economically weaker sections of the society.
The proposed land, however, is an ecologically sensitive zone densely populated with age-old trees, medicinal plants and vital biodiversity. Besides, these forests help to regulate micro-climate and rainfalls; provide habitat for wildlife, support soil fertility and prevent land/soil erosion and sustain livelihoods of tribal and nomadic communities.
Inspite of the ecological and social costs, the administration argues in favour of the said proposal by highlighting that this very initiative would provide housing to human rights as a critical welfare priority. Besides it, it fulfils the government’s duty to uplift and empower the poor through inclusive housing development. Further, these forest areas have become unsafe due to wild-animal threats and recurring human-wild life conflicts. Lastly, clearing forest-zones may help to curb anti-social elements allegedly using these areas as hideouts, thereby enhancing law and order.
(a) Can deforestation be ethically justified in the pursuit of social welfare objectives like, housing for the homeless?
(b) What are the socio-economic, administrative and ethical challenges in balancing environmental conservation with human development?
(c) What substantial alternatives or policy interventions can be proposed to ensure that both environmental integrity and human dignity are protected?
(Answer in 250 words) 20
9. Case Study
Subash is Secretary, PWD in the State Government. He is a senior officer, known for his competence, integrity and dedication to work. He enjoys the trust and confidence of Minister Incharge of PWD and Programme Implementation. As a part of his job profile, he is responsible for policy formulation, execution of projects relating to infrastructure initiatives in the State. Besides, he oversees the technical and administrative aspects relating to planning, designing and construction etc.
Subash’s Minister is an important Minister in the state and significant growth in urban infrastructure development and road network has been registered during his tenure. He is very keen for launching of ambitious road construction project in the near future.
Subash is in regular touch with the Minister and is working various modalities of road construction project. Regular meetings, interactions and presentations are made by him to the Minister before a formal public announcement of the project is made by the Minister. Subash’s only son Vikas is in real estate business. His son from his own sources is aware that a mega road project is on the anvil and announcement in this regard is expected anytime. He is very keen to know from his father the exact location of the upcoming project. He knows that there would be quantum jump in the prices of land at the proposed location. Buying land at this stage at cheaper prices would pay him rich dividends. He is pleading with him (his father) day in and day out to share him location of the proposed project. He assured him that he would handle the matter discreetly as it would not attract any adverse notice as he in the normal course, keeps on buying land as a part of his business. He feels pressurised because of constant pleadings by his son.
Another significant aspect of the matter pertained to the extra/undue interest in the above project by the Minister PWD. His nephew was also having big infrastructure project company. In fact, the Minister has also introduced his nephew to him and indicated to him to take care of his nephew’s business interest in the forthcoming project. The Minister encouraged him to act fast in the matter as early announcement and execution of mega road project would enhance his status in the party and public life.
In the above backdrop, Subash is in a fix as to the future course of action.
(a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case.
(b) Critically examine the options available to Subash in the above situation.
(c) Which of the above would be most appropriate and why?
(Answer in 250 words) 20
10. Case Study
Rajesh is a Group A officer with nine years of service. He is posted as Administrative Officer in an Oil Public Sector undertaking. As an Administrative Officer he is responsible for managing and coordinating various administrative tasks to ensure smooth functioning of office. He also manages office supplies, equipment etc.
Rajesh is now sufficient senior and is expecting his next promotion in JAG (Junior Administrative Grade) in the next one or two years. He knows that promotion is based on examination of ACRs/Performance Appraisal of last few years (5 years or so) of an officer by a DPC (Departmental Promotion Committee) and an officer lacking requisite grading of ACRs may not be found fit for promotion. Consequences of losing promotion may entail financial and reputational loss and set-back for career progression. Though he also puts his best efforts in official discharge of his duties, yet he is unsure of assessment by his superior officer. He is now putting extra efforts so that he gets thumping report at the end of financial year.
As Administrative Officer, Rajesh is regularly interacting with his immediate boss, who is his reporting officer for writing his ACR. One day he calls Rajesh and wants him to buy computer-related stationery on priority from a particular vendor. Rajesh instructs his office to initiate action for procuring these items. During the day, the dealing Assistant brings an estimate of Rupees Thirty Five Lakhs covering all stationery items from the same vendor. It is noticed that as per delegated financial powers, as provided in the GFR (General Financial Rules) as applicable in that Organisation, expenditure for office items exceeding Rupees Thirty Lakhs requires sanction of the next higher authority (boss in the present case). Rajesh knows that immediate superior would expect all these purchases should be done at his level and may not appreciate such lack of initiative on his part. During discussions with office, he learns that common practice of splitting of expenditure (where large order is divided into a series of smaller ones) is followed to avoid obtaining sanction from higher authority. This practice is against the rules and may come to the adverse notice of Audit.
Rajesh is perturbed. He is unsure of taking decision in the matter.
(a) What are the options available with Rajesh in the above situation?
(b) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?
(c) Which would be the most appropriate option for Rajesh and why?
(Answer in 250 words) 20
11. Case Study
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Program, MGNREGA was earlier known as National Rural Employment Scheme, NREGA. It is an Indian Social Welfare Program that aimed at fulfilling the ‘Right to Work’ provisions made in the Constitution. MGNREGA was launched in 2006 under Rural Employment Sector by the Ministry of Rural Development.
Main objective of the program is to give legal guarantee of wage employment to the adult members of rural households who are willing to do unskilled manual labour work subject to a maximum of 100 days per year for every household. Every rural household has the right to register under the scheme, job card is issued to the registered, Job Card holder can seek employment; State Government shall pay 25% of minimum wage for the first 30 days as compensatory daily unemployment allowance to the families and of wage for remaining period of the year. MGNREGA work was undertaken by various Gram Panchayats.
You have been appointed as an Administrator Incharge of the District. You have been given the responsibility of monitoring MGNREGA work undertaken by various Gram Panchayats. You are also given the authority to give technical sanctions to all MGNREGA works.
In one of the Panchayats in your jurisdiction, you notice that your predecessor has mismanaged the Program in terms of:
(i) Money not disbursed to actual job-seekers.
(ii) Muster Rolls of the Labourers not properly maintained.
(iii) Mismatch between the work done and payments made.
(iv) Payments made to fictitious persons.
(v) Job Cards were given without looking into the need of person.
(vi) Mismanagement of funds and to the extent of siphoning of funds.
(vii) Approved works that never existed.
(a) What is your reaction to the above situation and how do you restore the proper functioning of MGNREGA Program in this regard?
(b) What actions would you initiate, to solve the various issues listed above?
(c) How would you deal with the above situation?
(Answer in 250 words) 20
12. Case Study
Ashok is Divisional Commissioner of one of the border districts of the North East State. A few years back, Military has taken over the neighbouring country after overthrowing the elected civil government. Civil war situation is prevailing in the country especially in last two years. However, internal situation further deteriorated due to rebel groups taking over control of certain populated areas near own border. Due to intense fight between military and rebel groups, civilian casualties has increased manifold in recent past. In the meantime, in one night Ashok got information from the local police guarding the border check post that there are about 200-250 people mainly women and children trying to cross over to our side of the border. There are also about 10 soldiers with their weapons in military uniform part of this group who wants to cross over. Women and Children are also crying and begging for help. A few of them are injured and bleeding profusely need immediate medical care. Ashok tried to contact Home Secretary of the State but failed to do so due to poor connectivity mainly due to inclement weather.
(a) What are the options available with Ashok to cope with the situation?
(b) What are the ethical and legal dilemmas being faced by Ashok?
(c) Which of the options, do you think would be more appropriate for Ashok to adopt and why?
(d) In the present situation, what are the extra precautionary measures to be taken by the Border Guarding Police in dealing with soldiers in uniform?
(Answer in 250 words) 20
About GS 4 Paper (Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude)
GS Paper 4 stands apart from other General Studies papers due to its unique focus on character assessment rather than mere content evaluation. The comprehensive syllabus covers several critical areas:
Core Syllabus Components:
- Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants, and consequences of ethics in human actions
- Human Values: Lessons from great leaders, reformers, and administrators
- Attitude: Content, structure, function, and influence on thought and behavior
- Aptitude and Foundational Values: Integrity, impartiality, objectivity, dedication to public service
- Emotional Intelligence: Concepts, utility, and application in administration and governance
- Moral Thinkers and Philosophers: Contributions from Indian and global philosophical traditions
- Public Service Values: Ethics in public administration, ethical dilemmas, accountability
- Probity in Governance: Public service philosophy, RTI, codes of ethics, corruption challenges
The paper serves as a comprehensive test of a candidate's ethical competence rather than just theoretical knowledge about ethics. Expert analysis consistently highlights this paper as a decisive factor that can significantly impact final rankings, with strong performances often exceeding 110-120 marks.
UPSC CSE GS Mains 4 Ethics,2025 Trend Analysis
1. Shift in Thematic Focus
- Digital Ethics and Contemporary Relevance: Q1(a) on social media ethics shows UPSC’s continuing interest in challenges from technology, digital governance, and misinformation. Similar themes were asked earlier (e.g., 2019 – social media accountability, 2021 – AI and ethics).
- Constitutional Morality: Q1(b) stresses constitutional values, a trend seen in past papers (2017, 2020) linking governance with constitutional principles.
- Geopolitics and Ethics: Clausewitz quote (Q2a) connects ethics with global conflicts, rare for GS4. UPSC is expanding scope from personal ethics to international ethics.
2. Integration of Governance, Development, and Ethics
- Environmental vs Development Dilemma: Q2(b) and Case Study (forest land for housing) highlight ecological ethics, a recurring trend since 2018 (e.g., ethics in sustainable development).
- Public Administration Accountability: Q6(b) on fund utilization directly connects ethics with economic governance. Similar questions appeared in 2016 (probity in governance) and 2020 (leakages in welfare schemes).
- Civil Services Role Evolution: Q5(b) reframes the civil servant as a facilitator rather than just a regulator, aligning with governance reforms like minimum government, maximum governance.
3. Philosophical Depth and Thinkers
- Quotes (Q3) from Thiruvalluvar, William James, Vivekananda reflect a blend of Indian and Western ethical thought. This balance is consistent with past years (Gandhi, Aristotle, Buddha, Tagore).
- Q4(b) on Mahavir’s teachings shows UPSC’s recurring practice of testing relevance of ancient Indian philosophy in modern contexts (similar to Buddha in 2020, Gandhi in 2017).
4. Case Studies: More Complex, Multi-Dimensional
- 2025 Case Studies are more layered, requiring balancing personal vs professional duties (Vijay’s dilemma), environment vs welfare (forest land housing), conflict of interest (Subash and his son), rules vs pressure from seniors (Rajesh), corruption in welfare schemes (MGNREGA), border humanitarian crisis (Ashok).
- Compared to earlier years, 2025 shows:
- Greater emphasis on institutional accountability (MGNREGA, fund mismanagement).
- Stronger intersection of law, ethics, and administration (environmental clearance, border crisis).
- Sharper conflict of interest dilemmas involving family, political masters, and rules.
5. Key Trends Emerging
- Digital and Technology Ethics: Expanding relevance, now mainstream.
- Constitutional Morality as Core Anchor: Linked with accountability and governance.
- Environment vs Development: Now a consistent theme across both questions and case studies.
- Civil Services as Change Agents: Not just regulators, but facilitators, enablers, ethical leaders.
- Practical Administrative Scenarios: Case studies are testing not just theory but decision-making under real pressure.
- Greater Link with Contemporary India: India as 4th largest economy, MGNREGA mismanagement, border refugees – showing UPSC’s push towards reality-based ethical problem solving.
6. Strategic Implications for Preparation
- Balance Theory and Application: Be ready with ethical theories (Kant, Utilitarianism, Virtue Ethics) but apply them to governance and contemporary issues.
- Indian Thinkers and Philosophy: Revise Gandhian ethics, Vivekananda, Buddha, Mahavir, and link them with modern administration.
- Case Study Preparation: Focus on structured frameworks (options, dilemmas, evaluation, most appropriate decision).
- Current Affairs in Ethics: Link answers with digital privacy laws, climate change commitments, economic reforms, refugee issues.
Overall, the 2025 paper continues UPSC’s trend of blending philosophical foundations with practical governance dilemmas, but with sharper focus on digital ethics, environmental challenges, and accountability in public administration.
Using This Question Paper for Preparation:
- Practice Ethical Dilemmas: The case studies provide excellent practice material for understanding how UPSC frames ethical conflicts and expects structured reasoning.
- Trend Analysis: Analyzing the 2025 paper helps identify evolving patterns in question types, complexity levels, and focus areas within the syllabus.
- Answer Writing Drills: Use the theoretical questions to practice the "Define-Explain-Illustrate" framework and develop concise, impactful responses within word limits.
- Mock Test Simulation: Attempt the complete paper under timed conditions to develop exam temperament and refine time management strategies.
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Answer Writing Strategy for GS 4 Paper (Ethics)
Success in GS Paper 4 requires mastering specific answer writing techniques that demonstrate ethical reasoning and administrative maturity.
For Theoretical Questions (Section A) - The DEI Framework:
Define: Begin with a crisp, precise definition of the central ethical concept Explain: Elaborate on significance, dimensions, and relevance to public administration
Illustrate: Substantiate with powerful, real-life examples that demonstrate practical understanding
Value Addition Techniques:
- Integrate philosophies of moral thinkers (Gandhi's trusteeship, Kant's deontology, Aristotle's virtue ethics)
- Use relevant quotes strategically in introductions or conclusions
- Employ simple diagrams for component-based questions (EI elements, governance pillars)
For Case Studies (Section B) - Universal Framework:
1. Introduction & Facts: Brief summary of the central ethical issue and undisputed facts
2. Stakeholder Analysis: Identify all affected parties with their interests, rights, and responsibilities
3. Ethical Dilemmas & Values in Conflict: Articulate core conflicts (Public Interest vs. Political Pressure, Efficiency vs. Compassion, etc.)
4. Options Available: Present multiple courses of action with pros and cons from ethical, legal, and practical standpoints
5. Chosen Course of Action & Justification: Select the most balanced option using:
- Constitutional values and principles
- Ethical theories (Deontology, Utilitarianism, Virtue Ethics)
- Civil service values
- Gandhian Talisman
6. Conclusion: Forward-looking statement with systemic reform suggestions
Building Your Example Repository:
- Administrative excellence (E. Sreedharan, Armstrong Pame)
- Current affairs ethical dilemmas
- Historical leaders and their principles
- Personal experiences demonstrating values
- Official report recommendations (ARC reports)
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How GS 4 Question Paper Helps in Interview Preparation
The preparation for GS Paper 4 creates a powerful synergy with UPSC Personality Test preparation. The interview board assesses the same qualities that form the core of the Ethics syllabus: intellectual integrity, balance of judgment, leadership capacity, and problem-solving mindset.
Common Interview Question Types:
- "As a District Magistrate, you discover corruption among senior colleagues. Your approach?"
- "Facing political pressure to bend rules in procurement. How would you handle it?"
- "Describe a personal situation where your values clashed with requirements. Your resolution?"
The structured frameworks developed for case studies provide an excellent mental template for articulating responses during interviews. Candidates who excel in GS4 often demonstrate superior clarity in expressing their values and decision-making processes during the personality test.
Interview Benefits from GS4 Preparation:
- Enhanced vocabulary for discussing ethical concepts
- Structured thinking for complex situational questions
- Confidence in defending value-based decisions
- Ability to acknowledge multiple perspectives while maintaining principled stands
Importance of Solving Previous Year Papers
Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs) serve as the most reliable compass for understanding UPSC's expectations and evolving trends in GS Paper 4.
Strategic Value of PYQs:
- Pattern Familiarization: Understanding question types and structural demands
- Theme Identification: Recognizing high-yield areas and recurring concepts
- Standard Calibration: Gauging required depth and analytical sophistication
- Time Management: Developing realistic completion strategies under pressure
Evolving Trends (2013-2024):
- Rise of Quote-Based Questions: Increased emphasis on interpreting philosophical ideas and their governance applications
- Complex Multi-Layered Case Studies: Longer scenarios with intertwining dilemmas requiring nuanced analysis
- Contemporary Ethical Challenges: Integration of modern issues like AI ethics, environmental dilemmas, international relations ethics
PYQ Integration Strategy:
- Initial Stage: Use 5-7 years of papers for scope understanding
- Mid-Stage: Practice topic-wise questions after completing syllabus sections
- Final Stage: Complete paper simulations for exam conditioning
This evolution indicates UPSC's expectation for future administrators to possess forward-looking ethical perspectives capable of navigating both traditional administrative challenges and emerging 21st-century complexities.
Conclusion
UPSC CSE Mains GS Paper 4 represents far more than an academic hurdle—it's an opportunity to demonstrate the qualities that define exceptional public servants. The paper rewards clarity of thought, humane yet practical solutions, administrative maturity, and unwavering commitment to constitutional values.
Key Success Factors:
- Granular understanding of every syllabus keyword
- Mastery of structured answer writing frameworks
- Consistent practice with diverse case studies
- Rigorous time management discipline
- Deep internalization of core civil service values
Download the UPSC CSE Mains 2025 GS Paper 4 PDF and use it as a foundation for your preparation journey. The paper serves as an authentic guide to current examination standards and expectations.
For aspirants targeting UPSC CSE 2026, this paper provides invaluable insights into the evolving nature of ethical assessment. Combine thorough theoretical understanding with relentless, timed practice to transform GS Paper 4 from a challenging obstacle into your decisive competitive advantage.
Remember, preparing for this paper is ultimately about developing an "ethical mindset" that will serve not just in examinations, but throughout a meaningful career in public service. The values of integrity, empathy, objectivity, and dedication to public welfare that you cultivate during this preparation will become the cornerstone of your administrative character.
Embrace this paper with the sincerity and rigor it deserves, and let it become your pathway to serving the nation with distinction.
OTHER RELEVANT ARTICLE FOR UPSC 2025
- UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2025 : https://visionias.in/blog/prelims/upsc-prelims-2025-question-paper-download-subject-wise-analysis
- UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2025 EXPECTED CUT OFF : https://visionias.in/blog/prelims/upsc-prelims-2025-expected-cut-off
- UPSC CSE PRELIMS GS 1 2025 ANALYSIS : https://visionias.in/blog/prelims/detailed-analysis-of-upsc-paper-1-gs-prelims-2025
- UPSC CSE PRELIMS GS 2 (CSAT) 2025 ANALYSIS : https://visionias.in/blog/prelims/detailed-analysis-of-upsc-paper-2-csat-2025-2
- HARSHITA GOYAL , RANK 2 , UPSC 2024 : https://visionias.in/blog/prelims/harshita-upsc-air-2-2024-background-upsc-attempt-marksheet-toppers-copy-and-strategy