Answer: 

Probity is a quality of being honest, and morally upright. It is a characteristic that reflects a person's strict adherence to ethical principles and integrity in their actions and decisions across time and space.

The term probity is often associated with individuals in positions of power or authority and is regarded as a cornerstone of good governance, business ethics, and personal integrity. For example, Vinod Rai, the former Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, showed probity by bringing out the scams in India.

Significance of the Probity in Governance: 

• Corruption prevention: Probity is essential for preventing corruption in public institutions. Corruption is a major hindrance to development and progress, and it can only be prevented when public officials are committed to ethical conduct and accountable to the public.
• For example, Ashok Khemka: Transferred multiple times, but still exposed land scams fearlessly.
• Improved service delivery: Probity helps in improving service delivery to the public. When public officials are committed to ethical conduct, they are more likely to ensure that government services are delivered in a timely, transparent, and efficient manner.
• For example, Dr. Kalam: From DRDO to President, revolutionized defence, and education sectors.
• Strengthening Rule of law: When government officials are committed to ethical conduct, they are more likely to respect and uphold the law, which can help ensure that the rule of law is maintained.
• For example, U. Sagayam: Upright officer; audited illegal granite mining, ensured justice.
• Ensuring Social justice: When public officials are committed to ethical conduct, they are more likely to ensure that government policies and programs are designed to benefit all sections of society, rather than just a few.
• For example, Armstrong Pame: 'Miracle Man'; built road without government aid, aiding tribal areas.

Steps that can be taken to instill  the virtue of probity in young public servants: 

• Educate on the importance of probity: This education should cover the consequences of unethical behaviour, the benefits of ethical behaviour, and the role of probity in ensuring good governance.
• Example: Vigilance Awareness Week conducted by Central Vigilance Commission.
• Establish codes of conduct: It should outline the standards of behaviour expected of public servants. The code should be clear, concise, and easy to understand. It should also be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in legislation and best practice.
• Example: The Government of India has established a code of conduct for public servants. 
• Encourage accountability: Create a culture of accountability where public servants are held responsible for their actions. This should involve establishing mechanisms for reporting unethical behaviour, protecting whistleblowers, and imposing sanctions for violations of the code of conduct.
• Example: Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. 
• Lead by example: Senior public servants and political leaders should lead by example and demonstrate ethical behaviour. This can help to promote a culture of probity and encourage young public servants to follow suit.

The quote "Recognized Probity is the Surest of all Oaths" emphasizes the importance of probity in governance and highlights its role in promoting ethical behaviour in public service. By promoting probity, we can ensure that our public institutions are transparent, accountable, and committed to serving the public interest.