Emotional Intelligence-Concepts, and their Utilities and Applications in Administration and Governance.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to perceive, understand, manage, and regulate emotions in oneself and others. It is increasingly recognised as vital in governance and public service, where decision-making affects a large number of stakeholders. EI enhances interpersonal relationships, conflict resolution, ethical reasoning, and public trust.

1. Role of Emotional Intelligence in ethical decision making

Emotional intelligence strengthens ethical decision-making by enabling individuals to act with empathy, integrity, and emotional balance even in morally complex or high-pressure situations.

Keywords	Examples
1. Personal Integrity	Despite massive business losses, Ratan Tata refused to bribe foreign officials to enter a market. His self-awareness and moral conviction guided him toward principled choices.
2. Empathy	Despite social ridicule, Arunachalam Muruganantham pursued affordable menstrual hygiene solutions for rural women. His empathy, emotional strength, and perseverance drove ethical innovation.
3. Forgiveness	After 27 years in prison, Nelson Mandela chose forgiveness over revenge, leading South Africa towards peace.
4. Introspection	Mahatma Gandhi routinely reflected on his thoughts and actions through diary writing and public confessions. This deep self-awareness helped him align personal conduct with his moral philosophy of ahimsa and truth.
5. Moral Courage	Famously known as the “Iron Lady of Manipur”, Irom Sharmila went on a 16-year hunger strike against AFSPA. Her deep emotional resilience, self-control, and moral conviction highlight the ethical power of non-violence.

2. Role of EI in Administration and Governance

In public administration, EI is essential for policy implementation, citizen engagement, crisis management, and leadership. It ensures humane, ethical, and inclusive governance.

Keywords	Examples
1. Empathy in Policy Implementation	Kerala’s Kudumbashree Mission: Officials worked closely with women’s self-help groups, understanding grassroots needs emotionally, ensuring inclusive development.
2. Compassion during Crisis	Odisha Cyclone Management: Authorities showed emotional responsiveness in evacuations and relief operations, prioritising vulnerable sections.
3. Transparency and Trust	Administrators with high EI ensured citizen-friendly RTI mechanisms, understanding people’s right to information and frustration with opacity.
4. Emotional Regulation	E. Sreedharan (“Metro Man”): While executing the Delhi Metro project, he faced bureaucratic hurdles and political pressures but responded with composure and moral integrity, completing it ethically and on time.
5. Conflict Management	Syed Akbaruddin (IFS): As India’s UN representative, he diplomatically countered international pressure with calm communication and emotional control, reflecting EI in foreign policy.