Which of the following is not a function of civil service? 

Key Points 

• Civil Service refers to the permanent professional branches of a government’s administration that implement policies, enforce laws, and manage public services.
• Functions of the Civil Service include:
•  Policy Implementation: Executes government policies and programs.
•  Delegated Legislation: Civil servants draft rules and regulations under parliamentary authority.
•  Public Service Delivery: Provides essential services like healthcare, education, and welfare.
•  Advisory Role: Assists the government in policy formulation.
•  Law and Order Maintenance: Supports law enforcement and judiciary functions.

Important Points

• Why is Option (C) Incorrect?
• Civil servants are politically neutral and do not engage in opposition or political activism.
• Their duty is to serve the government, irrespective of political changes.
• Mobilizing opposition is a role of political parties, not civil service officers.
• Delegated Legislation (Option B) Explained:
• Civil servants create detailed regulations and administrative rules under parliamentary acts.
• This helps in the efficient implementation of laws.
• Example: Framing rules for taxation or environmental protection laws.
• Social Services (Option D) Explained:
• Civil servants administer social welfare programs, including healthcare, education, and employment schemes.
• Example: Managing programs like MGNREGA (employment), Ayushman Bharat (healthcare), and Mid-Day Meal Scheme (education).

Additional Information

• Characteristics of Civil Service:
• Permanence: Continues beyond political changes.
• Neutrality: Works impartially under different governments.
• Anonymity: Civil servants work behind the scenes; politicians take credit or responsibility for policies.
• Accountability: Answerable to elected representatives and the public through parliamentary oversight.
• Types of Civil Services in India:
• All India Services: IAS, IPS, IFS (work at both central & state levels).
• Central Services: IRS, IRTS, IES (directly under the Central Government).
• State Civil Services: Administered by individual states.