The statement posits that autonomy for higher civil servants fosters creativity and productivity, which is largely true. Autonomy allows civil servants to exercise discretion, take initiative, and implement innovative solutions without excessive bureaucratic hurdles. It empowers them to make timely decisions, adapt to changing circumstances, and leverage their expertise, ultimately leading to more effective policy implementation and service delivery. This freedom can cultivate a culture of ownership and professional satisfaction, encouraging them to think outside the box and develop novel approaches to complex public problems.

However, while autonomy is beneficial, it must be balanced with robust accountability mechanisms to prevent misuse of power, ensure transparency, and maintain public trust. Unchecked autonomy can lead to opacity, arbitrary decision-making, and a lack of responsiveness to public needs. Therefore, making the civil service more accountable is crucial. This can be achieved through several measures:

1. Performance-Based Accountability: Implementing clear, measurable performance indicators and regular evaluations linked to outcomes rather than just processes. This includes setting specific targets for service delivery, project completion, and citizen satisfaction.
2. Transparency and Public Scrutiny: Enhancing transparency through mechanisms like the Right to Information (RTI) Act, proactive disclosure of information, and social audits. This allows citizens to monitor government functioning and hold officials responsible.
3. Ethical Frameworks and Conduct Rules: Strengthening codes of conduct, ethical guidelines, and vigilance mechanisms to prevent corruption and ensure integrity in decision-making.
4. Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: Establishing efficient and accessible channels for citizens to lodge complaints and seek redressal against maladministration or unresponsive services.
5. Independent Oversight Bodies: Empowering institutions like Lokpal, Lokayukta, and parliamentary committees to scrutinize the actions of civil servants and ensure adherence to legal and ethical standards.

To foster innovation alongside accountability, the following approaches can be adopted:

1. Risk-Taking within Boundaries: Creating an environment where civil servants are encouraged to experiment with new ideas and approaches, with a clear understanding that 'honest mistakes' will not be unduly penalized. This requires a shift from a blame-averse culture to a learning-oriented one.
2. Incentivizing Innovation: Recognizing and rewarding innovative solutions and successful pilot projects. This could include fast-tracking promotions, public commendations, or dedicated innovation funds.
3. Capacity Building and Skill Development: Providing continuous training in areas like design thinking, data analytics, project management, and technology adoption to equip civil servants with the tools for innovation.
4. Collaboration and Cross-Sectoral Partnerships: Encouraging civil servants to collaborate with experts from academia, the private sector, and civil society organizations to bring diverse perspectives and solutions.
5. Citizen Engagement and Feedback: Involving citizens in the co-creation of policies and services, using their feedback to drive innovation and ensure relevance.

In conclusion, the ideal civil service operates with a judicious blend of autonomy and accountability. Autonomy fuels creativity and productivity, while accountability ensures responsible governance. By implementing robust oversight mechanisms and simultaneously fostering a culture that encourages calculated risk-taking and continuous learning, the civil service can become both highly accountable and truly innovative, serving the public interest more effectively.