The seven principles of public life, commonly known as the Nolan principles, were proposed by the Committee on Standards in Public Life in the UK back in 1995. These principles encompass selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership. Though originating in the UK, their applicability extends into the 21st century and across borders, including countries like India. Lord Nolan himself stated, “The seven principles of public life are timeless and apply equally to people in public life anywhere in the world.”

The relevance of Nolan’s seven principles in the 21st century:

1. Selflessness:
   1. In an era marked by growing individualism and self-interest, the principle of selflessness is crucial for ensuring that public officials prioritise the collective good over personal gain.
   2. During the COVID-19 pandemic, selflessness was crucial as healthcare workers worldwide, including in India, risked their lives to treat patients. Selflessness helps build and maintain public trust.
   3. Dr. Devi Shetty, a renowned cardiac surgeon, founded Narayana Health with the mission of making high-quality healthcare affordable for all, reflecting a selfless commitment to public service.
2. Integrity:
   1. “Integrity is the foundation upon which trust is built.” In an age where misinformation and fake news proliferate, maintaining integrity is essential for building and sustaining public trust.
   2. It acts as a powerful deterrent to corrupt practices, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interests of the public rather than for personal gain.
   3. Individuals like Edward Snowden exhibited integrity by exposing unethical practices, despite personal risks, emphasizing the role of integrity in safeguarding public interest.
   4. The courageous actions of Durga Shakti Nagpal (IAS) against illegal activities despite political pressure is necessary for good governance.
3. Objectivity:
   1. In an era of data and technology, objectivity ensures decisions are based on evidence and rational analysis rather than bias or emotion.
   2. By relying on factual data and unbiased research, policymakers can design solutions that genuinely address societal needs.
   3. Courts around the world, including the Indian judiciary, strive to maintain objectivity in their rulings.
   4. During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health officials relied on objective scientific data to make decisions about lockdowns, vaccinations, and other measures.
4. Accountability:
   1. Public trust in governmental institutions is built on the belief that officials are answerable for their actions.
   2. Accountability encourages public servants to make decisions responsibly, considering the consequences of their actions.
   3. Accountability mechanisms deter misconduct and encourage ethical behavior among public officials. Regular audits and public reporting increase accountability and deter corruption.
5. Openness: 
   1. “An informed citizenry is at the heart of a dynamic democracy.” Openness ensures that citizens have access to the information they need to make informed decisions and participate actively in democratic processes.
   2. The proliferation of social media and digital communication necessitates transparency.
   3. Right to Information (RTI) Act, Open Data Initiatives, MyGov platform, Transparent Budgeting, etc allow Indian citizens to participate in governance ensuring government processes are open and participatory.
6. Honesty:
   1. In the digital age, honesty is crucial in combatting misinformation and fake news. Public officials who communicate truthfully help maintain credibility and trust.
   2. Honest public officials like Kiran Bedi, India’s first female IPS officer, have set high standards of integrity in law enforcement. Her efforts in prison reforms and her tenure as a police officer were marked by transparency and a zero-tolerance approach to corruption.
   3. Honest leaders inspire trust and respect, fostering a culture of integrity within their organizations. Their commitment to truthfulness sets a powerful example and encourages ethical behaviour at all levels.
7. Leadership:
   1. From climate change to pandemics, the 21st century presents complex global challenges that require collaborative and visionary leadership. Leaders who can build coalitions, promote international cooperation, and drive sustainable solutions play a crucial role in addressing these pressing issues.
   2. The world faces a range of crises, from natural disasters to economic downturns and public health emergencies. Strong leadership is essential for crisis management, providing stability and effective responses to mitigate risks.
   3. Ethical leadership sets the tone for organizational culture and public service standards.

As society evolves and faces new challenges, Nolan’s principles provide a timeless framework for promoting ethical conduct, accountability, and trust in governance institutions. Embracing these principles is essential for promoting good governance and advancing the common good in an increasingly interconnected world.