Answer: 

A civil servant is a generalist officer who is considered to be a ‘jack of all trade and master of none.’ However, modern-day problems require them to be innovative and creative, i.e., thinking out of the box or undertaking unorthodox solutions while resolving ethical dilemmas.    

Importance of Domain Knowledge in Resolving Ethical Dilemmas  

• Understand Nuances: Civil servants with domain expertise are able to understand nuances and dynamics of a particular field that helps in resolving clash between conflicting values.  

• For instance, a bureaucrat with civil engineering background would be able to tackle road infrastructure issues better.  

• Need for Specialized Knowledge: The changing times is making government functions more specialized and sophisticated, particularly with a greater role of private players in service delivery. 

• For instance, dealing with cyber security/crime is the function of an IPS officer. However, a well-versed IPS (having understanding of cyber terms) would coordinate better with private players.      

• Improving Quality of Decisions: Domain expertise in civil servants helps in improving quality of decisions and service delivery, thus promoting public trust.  

• For instance, a civil servant with MBBS background would’ve been able to take better decisions to manage the COVID-19 pandemic.   

Need of Innovation and Creativity to Resolve Ethical Dilemmas   

• Out of the Box Solutions: At times going through routine or procedures might not result in success. It requires an out of the box solution and a bureaucrat with innovation would be able to solve such problems.  

• For instance, delivering government benefits via ICT to eligible people without proper documents. 

• Reconciling Diverging Views/Values: A creative bureaucrat would be able to reconcile seemingly diverging values/course of actions to resolve ethical dilemmas.  

• For instance, resolving a development v/s environment dispute by coordinating with economic and environment groups.  

• Red Tape Reduction: Reducing bureaucratic processes while maintaining governance quality poses ethical concerns. 

• For Example: In the face of complaints about delayed permits, a creative digital portal can be introduced to speed up the permit process without compromising on the thoroughness of checks. 

• Transparency in Governance: Public officials often face the dilemma of ensuring total transparency while safeguarding sensitive information. 

• For Example: The creative use of technology, like blockchain, can be implemented for transparent procurement processes while still keeping certain details confidential. 

• Cultural Sensitivities: Balancing modern development with cultural preservation is challenging. 

• For Example: When constructing a highway near a historical site, using innovative methods and materials can preserve the site's integrity while allowing for infrastructural development. 

Thus, innovation and creativity are valuable traits for public officials when addressing ethical dilemmas.  

These qualities enable officials to think beyond conventional solutions, adapt to changing circumstances, and find ethical resolutions that balance competing interests and uphold the principles of good governance and public trust.