Abstract
Corruption poses a considerable impediment to India's progress, hindering its potential for advancement and affluence. This paper highlights the role of ethical leadership as a fundamental cornerstone in making of a corruption-free Viksit Bharat (Developed India). By examining the relationship between ethical leadership, governance, and societal principles, this study underscores the importance of fostering integrity and accountability in leadership roles. Furthermore, this paper also examines strategies for promoting ethical leadership across diverse sectors as well. India's trajectory toward becoming a 'Viksit Bharat' is intrinsically linked to establishing a resilient ethical framework within its leadership. By examining the challenges presented by corruption and the advantages of ethical governance, this paper underscores the pressing need for a transformative strategy in leadership development.
Keywords: Viksit Bharat, India, ethical leadership, governance, corruption, public service, integrity, transparency, accountability.
1. Introduction
1.1 Corruption and its impact
Corruption is a timeless phenomenon. Kautilya in his Arthashastra, which is believed to have originated in Ancient India sometime in 4th Century BC, vividly illustrates the phenomenon in the following quote:
"Just as it is impossible not to taste honey or the poison that one may find at the tip of one's tongue, so it is impossible for one dealing with government funds not to taste a little bit of the king's revenue. Just as it is impossible to know whether fish moving in water are drinking it, so it is impossible to find out when government servants employed in government work are taking money for themselves." - Kautilaya, Arthshastra (4th Century BC)
The impact of Corruption is, however, not merely economic. Corruption has an impact that goes beyond the costs observed in the markets. For example, studies have evidenced that corruption affects the satisfaction gained by the citizens. Corruption in India is not confined to a single sector or level of governance; rather, it affects nearly all aspects of the public sector, ranging from local governments to national institutions. It manifests in numerous forms, including bribery, nepotism, embezzlement, and favoritism, all of which distort public service delivery, create inefficiencies, and erode public trust in the system.
Bribery, perhaps the most visible form of corruption, is prevalent in various areas, including law enforcement, tax collection, licensing, and regulatory approvals. Public officials often demand bribes in exchange for basic services or to expedite procedures, which creates an uneven playing field and undermines fairness. Nepotism and favoritism, where jobs, contracts, or resources are allocated based on personal connections rather than merit, further perpetuate inequality and inefficiency. Embezzlement of public funds is another serious concern, where leaders or officials siphon off money that should be allocated for public welfare or infrastructure development. This widespread corruption not only undermines the integrity of government institutions but also creates an environment of impunity, where unethical behavior is often tolerated or overlooked.
This corruption extends beyond government bodies into many facets of Indian society, including business, education, and healthcare. In some cases, the private sector colludes with government officials to circumvent regulations or manipulate bidding processes for government contracts, further fueling the cycle of corruption. Weak institutional frameworks compound the difficulty in curbing such behavior, insufficient enforcement of anti-corruption laws, and a lack of political will to tackle powerful vested interests. As a result, corruption remains entrenched at all levels of governance, undermining efforts to improve governance and achieve sustainable development.
1.2 The Corruption Landscape in India
India’s position on global corruption indices highlights the pervasive and systemic nature of corruption within its governance structure. According to various international corruption perception rankings, India consistently ranks poorly, reflecting deep-rooted issues within political, administrative, and societal frameworks. Corruption in India exerts extensive ramifications on its political, economic, and social infrastructures. According to Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2024, India is ranked 84th out of 180 countries, underscoring the persistent nature of corruption despite ongoing initiatives to combat it. The mismanagement of resources, inefficiencies in public administration, and the misappropriation of funds allocated for developmental programs have impeded economic advancement and exacerbated social disparities. Consequently, public trust in governmental institutions has steadily declined. A 2024 report by the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) revealed that approximately 70% of Indian citizens perceive corruption as a substantial obstacle to the nation's advancement. This lack of trust not only impedes developmental endeavors but also weakens democratic principles and cultivates an environment of political instability.
1.3 Role of Ethical Leadership in Combating Corruption
To confront this widespread issue, ethical leadership is progressively acknowledged as an indispensable solution for curbing corruption and propelling India’s development. Ethical leadership, anchored in principles such as integrity, transparency, and accountability, can assume a transformative role in reshaping governance practices. In 2024, India introduced a revised National Anti-Corruption Strategy, emphasizing the inculcation of leadership ethics at both the national and local levels. Ethical leaders who prioritize the public interest over personal or political gains can restore confidence in governmental institutions, ensuring the judicious utilization of public resources for national development. This leadership approach fosters a culture of responsibility, ensuring that leaders remain accountable to the citizens they serve, which is essential for mitigating corruption in governance.
The notion of ethical leadership holds particular relevance in India, where the urgency for reform is crucial. While India’s democratic institutions exhibit resilience, corruption remains deeply ingrained within public administration, law enforcement, and various other sectors. Consequently, ethical leadership must be promoted across all governance levels and within the private sector. In 2024, India’s corporate governance code underwent revisions to incorporate more stringent regulations for corporate accountability, mirroring the broader national emphasis on ethics in leadership. By bolstering ethical leadership in both governmental and business domains, India can foster an environment conducive to curtailing corruption, enhancing transparency, and establishing a more equitable society.
1.4 Vision of Viksit Bharat
The vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' is a testament to India's aspirations for global prominence.
India, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, stands at a crossroads in its journey towards becoming a developed nation or Viksit Bharat. However, achieving this goal requires a holistic transformation, encompassing not only economic growth but also social justice and good governance. However, the pervasive issue of corruption poses a significant challenge to this vision. Corruption, a persistent challenge, undermines these aspirations and hinders development efforts. Corruption not only hampers economic growth but also erodes public trust in institutions, leading to social unrest and inequality. Ethical leadership emerges as a crucial element in combating corruption and steering the nation towards sustainable development. Ethical leadership, characterized by integrity, transparency, and accountability, is indeed a powerful antidote to corruption and a cornerstone for a corruption-free India.
1.5 The concept of Ethical Leadership
Ethical leadership can be defined as the demonstration of normatively appropriate conduct through personal actions and interpersonal relationships, and the promotion of such conduct in followers through two-way communication, reinforcement, and decision-making. Key characteristics of ethical leaders include integrity, accountability, transparency, empathy, and a commitment to the common good. Scholars such as James MacGregor Burns (1978) define ethical leadership as encouraging followers to pursue collective goals beyond self-interest, thereby fostering moral awareness and responsibility. Burns emphasizes that ethical leaders inspire their followers by transforming their moral values and guiding them towards higher ethical standards.
Stephen Covey (1989) further highlights that moral authority stems from adherence to universal principles such as honesty, integrity, and respect for others. Ethical leaders do not simply enforce rules; they embody the values they wish to instill in their followers. This alignment between personal values and leadership practices is critical for cultivating a culture of integrity within organizations. Moreover, Peter Drucker (1992) asserts that effective leadership involves raising individuals' visions beyond their ordinary limitations. Ethical leaders empower their followers by providing them with the tools and support necessary to achieve their potential while adhering to ethical standards. The existing literature on ethical leadership highlights its significance in promoting transparency and reducing corruption within governance frameworks. Research indicates that organizations led by ethical leaders experience higher levels of employee engagement, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment (Brown et al., 2005). Furthermore, ethical leaders are more likely to communicate clear ethical standards and hold their followers accountable for adhering to these standards.
2. Importance of Ethical Leadership in Governance
In the context of governance, ethical leadership is vital for establishing trust between the government and its citizens. Leaders who prioritize ethical considerations in their decision-making processes are more likely to foster an environment of accountability and transparency, which are essential for curbing corruption. Ethical leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping governance structures that prioritize transparency and accountability. Leaders who exemplify ethical behavior inspire trust among citizens and stakeholders, creating an environment conducive to effective governance. In contrast, leaders who engage in corrupt practices erode public trust, leading to disillusionment and disengagement from the political process.
However, despite the growing body of research on ethical leadership, gaps remain in empirical studies linking specific ethical practices to governance outcomes in India. While numerous theoretical frameworks exist outlining the characteristics of ethical leaders (Trevino et al., 2000), there is limited research with regard to examining how these characteristics translate into effective governance practices within the Indian context. This paper aims to fill these gaps by analyzing case studies of successful ethical leaders in India and their impact on curbing corruption. By exploring real-world examples of ethical leadership in action, this research seeks to provide valuable insights into how India can leverage ethical governance to achieve its developmental goals. Significance of Ethical leadership in governance can be highlighted in the following aspects:
i. Empowerment through Ethical Practices
Ethical leaders empower their followers by creating an environment where individuals feel valued and respected. For instance, Verghese Kurien's cooperative model allowed farmers to take ownership of their work while ensuring transparency in operations. This empowerment led to increased productivity and reduced exploitation by middlemen. Verghese Kurien's Leadership during India's White Revolution exemplifies how ethical practices can empower communities and promote accountability. Kurien established the cooperative model through Amul, allowing farmers to gain control over their livelihoods while ensuring fair prices and transparency in milk production. His commitment to ethical leadership not only improved rural incomes but also reduced corruption within the dairy sector.
ii. Establishing Accountability Mechanisms
Effective leaders implement accountability mechanisms that promote transparency within organizations. T.N. Seshan's tenure as Chief Election Commissioner exemplifies this principle; he introduced strict regulations limiting campaign expenses and preventing electoral malpractice. His reforms significantly improved the integrity of India's electoral process.
iii. Building Trust among Stakeholders
Ethical leaders foster trust among citizens by demonstrating consistent adherence to moral principles. E. Sreedharan's management of the Delhi Metro project showcased how transparency in financial reporting and project execution can enhance public confidence in government initiatives.
iv. Inspiring collective action against Corruption
Ethical leaders inspire collective action against corruption by mobilizing communities around shared values. Anna Hazare's anti-corruption movement galvanized public support for greater accountability within government institutions, ultimately leading to significant legislative changes such as the Lokpal Act. The Anna Hazare Movement; this grassroots movement underscored the potency of ethical leadership in advocating for anti-corruption legislation in India, galvanizing public support, and leading to the establishment of the Lokpal Bill.
v. Creating Institutional Frameworks for Ethical Governance
Successful leaders establish institutional frameworks that promote ethics at all levels of governance. The establishment of anti-corruption agencies like the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) in Botswana demonstrates how institutional mechanisms can effectively deter corrupt practices.
vi. Corporate Initiatives
Companies like the Tata Group have set benchmarks for ethical leadership in the corporate sector, demonstrating that ethical practices can coexist with profitability.
3. Ethical Leadership as a Solution
Building a Culture of Integrity
• Education and Training: Incorporating ethics into educational curricula at all levels can instill values of integrity and accountability in future leaders. Training programs for current leaders should emphasize ethical decision-making and the importance of transparency.
• Role of Civil Society: Civil society organizations play a crucial role in promoting ethical leadership by advocating to transparency, holding leaders accountable, and empowering citizens to demand ethical governance.
• Public Policy Reforms: Implementing policies that promote transparency, such as the Right to Information Act, can enhance accountability in governance. Additionally, establishing independent anti-corruption bodies can help investigate and prosecute corrupt practices.
Leadership in Various Sectors
• Political Leadership: Elected officials must embody ethical leadership to restore public trust. This can be achieved through transparent electoral processes, regular audits, and public accountability mechanisms.
• Corporate Leadership: Businesses must adopt ethical practices to contribute to a corruption-free environment. Corporate governance frameworks should prioritize ethical conduct, and companies should be held accountable for their role in perpetuating corruption.
• Community Leadership: Local leaders and influencers can drive change by promoting ethical behavior within their communities. Grassroots movements can mobilize citizens to demand accountability from their leaders.
Reforms in Governance
• Strengthening Institutions: To achieve a corruption-free Viksit Bharat, India must invest in strengthening institutions responsible for upholding ethics within government operations.
• Promoting Ethical Leadership Development: Training programs aimed at developing future leaders' ethical competencies should be prioritized across all sectors.
• Encouraging Citizen Engagement: Empowering citizens through awareness campaigns can mobilize public support for anti-corruption initiatives.
• Enhancing Transparency: Implementing transparent processes within government operations will help build trust among citizens while deterring corrupt practices.
4. Recommendations
To effectively promote ethical leadership and combat corruption in India, the following recommendations are proposed:
• Strengthening Educational Frameworks: Integrate ethics and leadership training into school and university curricula to cultivate a new generation of leaders who prioritize integrity and accountability.
• Enhancing Transparency Mechanisms: Governments should implement robust transparency measures, such as open data initiatives and public reporting systems, to ensure that citizens have access to information regarding government actions and expenditures.
• Encouraging Whistleblower Protections: Establish comprehensive protections for whistleblowers to encourage reporting of corrupt practices without fear of retaliation. This can help create a safer environment for individuals to come forward with information.
• Promoting Ethical Corporate Practices: Encourage businesses to adopt corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives that focus on ethical practices and community engagement, thereby fostering a culture of integrity within the corporate sector.
• Engaging Youth in Leadership Roles: Create platforms for youth engagement in governance and leadership, allowing young leaders to advocate for ethical practices and challenge the status quo.
• Fostering International Collaboration: Collaborate with international organizations and other nations to share best practices in ethical governance and anti-corruption strategies, enhancing the effectiveness of domestic efforts.
5. Conclusion
Ethical leadership is not merely a desirable trait but a necessity for steering India towards a corruption-free Viksit Bharat. By fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and transparency, India can overcome the challenges posed by corruption and unlock its full potential for development. The collective efforts of educational institutions, civil society, and government bodies are essential in creating an environment where ethical leadership thrives. As the nation moves forward, it is imperative to prioritize ethical considerations in all aspects of governance and leadership. Only through a concerted effort to promote ethical values can India hope to achieve its vision of a developed and corruption-free society. The journey towards Viksit Bharat requires not just policy changes but a fundamental shift in the mindset of leaders and citizens alike, embracing the principles of ethical leadership as the cornerstone of progress. The path to a corruption-free Viksit Bharat is fraught with challenges, but the promotion of ethical leadership offers viable solutions. By prioritizing integrity, accountability, and transparency, India can create a governance framework that not only addresses corruption but also fosters sustainable development. The collective responsibility of leaders, citizens, and institutions is crucial in this endeavor. As India strives for progress, embracing ethical leadership will be essential in realizing the vision of a developed and equitable society for all.
This paper highlights the paramount importance of ethical leadership as a foundational pillar for achieving a corruption-free Viksit Bharat. By fostering a culture of integrity and accountability within public institutions, ethical leaders can drive significant progress toward national development goals while restoring public trust in governance. As India navigates its path toward becoming a developed nation, embracing ethical leadership will be essential for overcoming challenges posed by corruption and inefficiency within government systems. Through sustained efforts to promote ethics at all levels of governance, India can realize its vision of Viksit Bharat, a nation characterized by transparency, accountability, and social justice for all its citizens.
References
1. Brown M.E., Trevino L.K., & Harrison D.A. (2005). Ethical Leadership: A Review and Future Directions.
2. Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS). (2024). Public Perception of Corruption in India. CSDS.
3. Government of India. (2024). National Anti-Corruption Strategy: 2024. Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
4. Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA). (2024). Report on Governance and Corruption in Indian Districts: The Role of Ethical Leadership. IIPA.
5. Khan, M. A. (2018). Ethical Leadership and Its Impact on Organizational Performance: A Study of the Public Sector in India. Journal of Business Ethics, 152(3), 657-670.
6. Mishra, A. (2020). Corruption in India: A Historical Perspective. Indian Journal of Public Administration, 66(1), 45-60.
7. Sarkar, S. (2019). The Role of Civil Society in Promoting Ethical Governance in India. Journal of Social Issues, 75(2), 345-362.
8. Securities and Exchange Board of India. (2024). Corporate Governance Code: Revised Regulations. SEBI.
9. Transparency International. (2024). Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2024. Transparency International.
10. Trevino L.K., et al., (2000). The Ethics Challenge: How to Lead With Integrity in Today's Workplace.
11. World Bank. (2024). India: Economic Update. World Bank Group.
As India approaches its 2047 centennial of independence, the idea of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) is gaining prominence in national discussions. This research paper explores how street vendors perceive the PM SVA-Nidhi Scheme and its significance in reaching this objective.
Education is a key driver of national development, enabling individual empowerment and societal transformation. Despite progress toward universal education in India, significant challenges such as socioeconomic, geographic, and gender disparities continue to limit equitable access to quality learning.
When citizens actively express their views and participate in governance, it drives national progress by aligning government actions with public needs. India has a long history of such participation, dating back to the Vedic era, though it was disrupted by invasions.
This article presents a case study on the development of railroads in India during British rule (1845–1924), focusing on the unique relationship between ownership and control that gave rise to freestanding companies stand-alone firms based on foreign direct investment.
E-transportation is emerging as a game changer in the travel and tourism industry, offering sustainable mobility solutions that reduce carbon emissions while enhancing the overall travel experience. This paper explores its advantages such as smoother journeys, improved access to offbeat destinations, and eco-friendliness alongside challenges like limited charging infrastructure, high costs, range anxiety, and slow technology adoption.
It is well well-known fact that Fat self-ignites at 760 Degree celsius. Using this fact, a group of environmentalists has tried an experiment of building Low- low-cost green Crematoriums, which save over 440 kg of wood per cremation (reducing from 500 kg of wood used in open cremation to just 60 kg in green crematoriums).
Ecological issues give birth to environmental discourses on human-nature interaction worldwide, which ultimately reinforce the need for environmental sustainability. In the globalization era, environmental security has become one of the key security issues, especially for the countries in the Global South.
The objective of the study is to analyse the socio-economic impact of the two sewage treatment plants using Cost-Benefit Analysis to compare the costs and benefits of the two plants. The aim is to comprehend the economic, health, environmental, and ecological impact of these sewage treatment plants.
The article delves into the complexities of insider trading, particularly in the context of circumstantial evidence and evolving technological challenges. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) faces significant hurdles in prosecuting insider trading due to encrypted communications, lack of jurisdiction over extraterritorial offenses, and reliance on indirect evidence.
General Purpose Technologies (GPTs), such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Cloud Computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), are transforming various sectors, including public administration. These technologies hold the potential to create more efficient, transparent, and citizen-centered government operations.
This study critically examines the Jhar-Jal Portal, an ambitious state-led digital governance initiative deployed in Jharkhand, India, as an empirical site for exploring the intersection of technological innovation and participatory water governance in the Global South.
Spurred by the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, the present study attempts to achieve the goal of presenting a pathway for evidence-based decision-making by conceptualising a framework for building a unified Data Exchange Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), christened by the authors as ‘जिला डेटा मंच’ ( Jila Data Manch, JDM).
Viksit Bharat seeks to convert India into a developed country by 2047, focusing on economic prosperity, social welfare, and sustainable environmental practices. With India nearing its 100th anniversary of independence in 2047, the idea of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) is becoming more central to national conversation.
The integration of women into the Indian Defence Forces marks a significant stride toward gender inclusivity and operational efficiency. This paper examines the challenges and opportunities for women in the Indian Armed Forces, focusing on cultural, institutional, and operational barriers that hinder their natural progress.
This paper examines the evolving role of leadership in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), emphasising the need for adaptive and integrative leadership to address the contemporary complexities such as political dynamics, financial and regulatory frameworks; and social and cultural challenges.
This sentiment lies at the heart of ease of living. The concept of ease of living has emerged as a vital yardstick to judge whether growth translates into better lives. It goes beyond GDP numbers, probing how easily a student reaches school, how safely a woman returns home at night, how affordably a family accesses water, healthcare and housing.
The measure of a nation’s progress is no longer captured in the rise and fall of its GDP. It is written instead in the rhythms of daily life: whether families feel secure in their homes, whether clean water runs from a tap, whether old age comes with dignity, and whether young people believe the future holds opportunity.
India has surpassed France and the UK to become the fifth largest economy in the world with a nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimated to be around $ 3.12 trillion for FY22. For the fiscal year 2022-23, a healthy growth rate of approximately 7% is anticipated.
This paper offers an integrated digital drone-based services solution for cities & towns, controlled through an integrated smart control room and/or where users may call in for support of required service, on a time-sharing basis; charged according to No of drones, payload, distances and time calculations.
This paper covers the health benefits of cycling and how it has a positive impact on the environment. It examines the Dutch model of the development of cycling, how it may be adapted to Indian conditions, and help to overcome the barriers to cycling, in the Indian context.
The transformation of the lives of rural women towards their betterment is a critical issue in the development process of countries around the world. Poverty, lack of financial awareness, minimal or no education, and women's disempowerment are reasons for the poor condition of rural women.
In India, the procedure of shifting the paradigm for good governance has been dynamic and continuing. A notion known as "good governance" includes a number of rules and procedures designed to guarantee the efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability of governmental institutions.
Administration of independent India drewn many transformations to get away from British colonial administration that propagates the colonial need such as maintenance of law and order, collection of revenue, tactics to hold the administrative power in British civil servants.
The twenty-first century should be an era of new forms of Governance different from what we have seen in the past. Due to widespread economic problems and fiscal constraints in the 1980's, governments around the world both rich and poor, concluded that government had become too big, too costly and ineffective.
The concept of ‘governance’ is not new. It is as old as human civilization. It has over the years gained momentum and a wider meaning. Apart from being an instrument of public affairs management, or a gauge of political development, governance has become a useful mechanism to enhance the legitimacy of the public realm.
In India, the paradigm of Participatory Forest Management (PFM) is proving to be transformative as it attempts to balance the intricate relationships between sustainable resource utilisation, forest regeneration, and conservation. India, which has about 70 million hectares of forest cover, struggles to meet the socioeconomic demands of the people who depend on the forests while also protecting these ecosystems.
A long-term abutting weather situation that is particularly related to temperature and precipitation is called climatic change. Land-use changes, forest fires, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and natural disasters like volcanic eruptions are all possible contributing factors to this Climate shift (Reddy, 2015).
The Yamuna is a tributary of the holy Ganges. The main stream of the Yamuna River originates from the Yamunotri Glacier at Bandar Panch (38°59'N, 78°27'E) in the Mussoorie Ranges of the lower Himalayas, at an average altitude of about 6387 meters above sea level in the Uttarkashi district (Uttrakhand) increase.
The issue of governance has received serious attention of researchers, policy makers, administrators and the national as well as international community. The New Public Management (NPM) concept is focused on service, quality, performance management and risk management of governance processes.
The government provides services including healthcare, education, social support, and financial inclusion to the public. However, villagers and citizens in remote areas often struggle to access these services due to several constraints including inadequate infrastructure and inaccessibility.
Digital governance, in the context of the digital era, involves the use of information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to enhance and transform the delivery of public services, improve government efficiency, and engage citizens in decision-making processes.
Since the majority of India's population relies on agriculture for their living, the sector dominates the country's economy. Agriculture only makes up less than 20 per cent of the nation's GDP (Ministry of Finance, 2018), emphasizing the sector's low-income production.
E-commerce and digital technology have transformed the way people spend and save. There is an evident technological growth in the world of finance which is referred to as financial technology or fintech. Financial technology (Fintech) refers to the technological innovations that assist in enabling or improving the access to financial services digitally through the internet, smartphones or computers.
Today we are living in an era of the ‘regulatory state’. The expressions ‘regulation’, ‘regulatory governance’ and ‘regulatory institutions’ have become the buzzwords of governance and are spread across social systems as well as state organisations and government strategies.
Participatory planning involves the intensive participation of local communities in analysing their current situation, envisioning a long-term collective future and attempting to attain this vision through collective planning of development interventions that would be implemented by different state agencies area.
Intrinsically, India is a republican country that is organised as a federation with a parliamentary democracy. Similar to the United Kingdom, the President serves as the head of state in name only; in contrast, the Prime Minister is the de facto executive, or real head of the government.
With over eight thousand years of experience and intellectual growth (Cameron (1968), Edwards (Gadd, 1971), Hammond (1971), Eisenstadt (1963, 1993), Olmstead ( 1948), etc.), public administration has undergone numerous changes and transformations over its long history, but it has never been so challenged as in the last thirty years.
A paradigm represents a framework, viewpoint, or collection of concepts that serves as a lens for understanding various subjects. In disciplines like science and philosophy, paradigms encompass specific theories, methodologies, and principles defining valid contributions within a field.
The field of public administration is experiencing a dramatic and rapid change. Locally and globally, some of the most significant trends that will have the role and function of public administrators is rapidly evolving as the needs and demands of citizens, governments and organisations influence their ability to create and implement policies.
Public administration in the 21st century is undergoing significant transformation, not just in advanced countries but also in various regions of the developing world, as the calls for transformative change grow louder. These changes are propelled by globalisation, liberalisation and the diversification of service provision.
In an era where administrative agility defines the efficacy of democratic governance, this chapter, “Techniques of Administrative Improvement”, offers a comprehensive exploration of transformative tools, methods, and strategies that are reshaping public administration in India and globally.
The rapid pace and interdependence of global, political, social and economic developments have necessitated a critical need for improved efficiency and effective public institutions, administrative procedures and sound financial management to confront challenges for sustainable development in all countries.
The evolution of Indian administration reflects a historical continuum shaped by civilizational values and transformative changes. Spanning the Mauryan, Mughal, and British eras, each phase contributed distinct institutional structures and governance philosophies.
As an initial output of the joint research between the Korean Institute of Public Administration (KIPA) and the National Academy of Governance (NAOG), this article provides overviews of the Korean and Mongolian legislative environment, governance and characteristics of the anti-corruption policies.
Administrative improvement is a strategic necessity in a fast-paced world. Techniques like O&M, Work Study, management aid tools such as network analysis form the cornerstone of efficient governance. MIS, PERT, and CPM tools equip administrators with the ability to anticipate challenges, and drive organizational success in an increasingly complex environment.
Street vendors are an integral part of the urban informal economy in India, providing essential goods and service that cater to the diverse needs of city residents. They operate in various capacities, from food vendors to artisans, and play a crucial role in enhancing the vibrancy and accessibility of urban life.
This paper examines the critical role of communication in driving India's economic growth within the context of its diverse societal structure and the rapidly evolving information age. It argues that effective communication is not merely a tool for disseminating information but a fundamental force shaping development trajectories.
One often wonders ‘what the government does’ and ‘why the government does what it does’ and equally importantly ‘what it does not do and why so’. According to Thomas R. Dye “public policy is whatever government chooses to do or not to do”, implying that government's actions and inactions both come into the realm of public policy.
Access to safe drinking water is not merely a fundamental human right; it is a cornerstone of public health, economic development, and social equity. In rural India, where water scarcity and inadequate infrastructure pose significant challenges, the quest for reliable water supply becomes even more critical.
This paper outlines the century-long history of Mongolia’s civil service training institution, the National Academy of Governance (NAOG), which plays a crucial role in meeting the contemporary needs of training and developing human resources within the civil service sector.
India stands at a crucial juncture in its quest for inclusive development that will bring prosperity across the spectrum. Large amounts of public funds are spent to address these issues, but their implementation and the quality of services delivered leave much to be desired.
India has committed to achieving developed nation status by the centenary of its independence, leveraging cutting-edge technologies including AI tapping into its vast human capital, and implementing policies that foster high growth while addressing enduring social and economic inequalities.
This article explores the value and statehood of Mongolia by utilising Woodrow Wilson’s categorisation of “Judging by the constitutional histories of the chief nations of the modern world, there may be three periods of growth through which government has passed in all the most highly developed of existing systems, and through which it promises to pass in all the rest.
This paper examines India's economic trajectory through the lens of its demographic dividend a substantial youth population exceeding 50% under age 25 within its 1.4 billion citizens. While this demographic advantage offers unprecedented economic potential, its promise is threatened by systemic challenges including inadequate education access, limited skill development, and employment scarcity, particularly in rural areas.
Remarkable technological and scientific progress has made the modern democratic State not a mere watch-dog or a police institution but an active participant interfering in almost every sphere of individual and corporate life in society in the changed role of a service state and a welfare state
Since the reform and opening up, China’s leadership training has experienced three stages of development: the initial stage of leadership training and development in the early period of China’s reform and opening up to the world (1978-2002), the rapid growing stage of leadership training and development in the period of fast growing economy and society (2002- 2012) and the innovative…
Accountability and control are essential for efficient, ethical administration in public and private sectors. Accountability ensures officials answer for actions and resource use, while control involves mechanisms to monitor compliance with laws and goals, promoting responsibility and preventing misconduct.
Healthcare in rural India presents unique challenges and opportunities. While global health metrics emphasize indicators like life expectancy, mortality rates, and healthcare infrastructure, they often fail to capture the socio-cultural nuances of rural communities
The “Internet plus” government service reform in China has progressed through three stages, namely one-stop service, one-window service, and companion service. This reform has become a significant example of reshaping the relationship between the local government and the public.
This paper explores the evolution of Indian welfare philosophy from Gandhi's nonviolent resistance to contemporary governance. It traces how the sacrifices of Indian revolutionaries fostered Sarvodaya and Antyodaya ideals, examining the philosophical underpinnings of these concepts in Advaita and dualistic traditions.
Like most other countries around the world, after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bangladesh's education system has undergone a radical change from the beginning of March 2020 onwards. The study attempts to analyse teachers’, students’ and parents’ perceptions and experiences about the online education in the COVID-19 pandemic at the school level.
Health is a fundamental human right and a critical indicator of development. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development emphasizes the importance of ensuring health and well-being for all individuals. A key objective of this agenda is to guarantee favorable health outcomes, underscored by the endorsement of a new declaration during the Global Conference on Primary Health Care held in Astana,…
In this article, published reports have been used for analysing state-wise status of SDGs achievements and their correlations with attainments in areas of poverty-reduction and other developmental indicators. Also, progress made by GPs on various metrics related to SDGs has been corroborated with other relevant metrics
Loss of governance reform efficacy is an identified entrenched institutional problem in systems. Reform, anywhere, is a sticky material because holders of powers and their cronies have rarely shown altruistic intentions of relaxing their profiteering grips over resources.
On September 1, 2023, a committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind explored the possibility of something called One Nation, One Election in India and ever since this thing has come out in public, political parties all across the country have been fuming with anger.
This paper examines various initiatives taken by Government of India to promote collaborative governance in various sectors. With increasing needs and aspirations of the community for public services and the limited capacity of government to provide the same, the involvement of various stakeholders to deliver these services becomes important and necessity.
In the vast and diverse landscape of India, regional disparities in development have long posed significant challenges to achieving equitable growth and social justice. Recognizing the urgent need to address these disparities, the Government of India launched the Aspirational Districts Programme in January 2018.
A dynamic interaction between the recognition of human complexity in organizations and the pursuit of structural efficiency has shaped the evolution of administrative philosophy. The foundational works of Frederick W. Taylor, Max Weber, Mary Parker Follett, Elton Mayo, Chester Barnard, Rensis Likert, Chris Argyris, and Douglas McGregor are critically examined in this essay, which charts the shift from traditional administrative…
In India, National Training Policy was formed in 2012, replacing the old policy of 1996. This was needed two reasons, new areas of administration given in the reports of second administrative reforms commission setup in 2005 and changing environment in different spheres of governance and new challenges of administration being faced by the civil servants.
India's emergence as a global services powerhouse in the 21st century marks a profound and transformative shift. This evolution, far from a mere economic change, is a strategic leap driven by its demographic dividend, technological advancements, and the burgeoning global demand for specialized services.
Public administration, as the executive arm of the state, has tremendous responsibilities to match the needs and aspirations of the citizens of the state. The systems have evolved over the years in almost every country as the politico and socio-economic environment of the respective country have changed.
Public administration is the cornerstone of modern governance. It refers to the organization, management, and implementation of government policies and programs, carried out by public officials and institutions. As a vital mechanism of the state, public administration not only ensures the effective delivery of services to citizens but also upholds the principles of accountability, transparency, and rule of law.
Tribal Sustainable Development through Evidence-based Policy and Planning: A major issue in post-Independence India has been a misreading of demands of tribal communities. What they have been demanding pertains to choice upholding their traditions and customs and having ownership over natural resources
As the Idiom of technological advancement takes its toll. The paper highlights a few poignant and emerging factors in the International Relations theorization. It was conservatively maintained by the defense strategists and the political leadership across the Global polity that foreign policy and the Diplomacy are greatly determined by the “given” of Geography and terrain
With the deepening of democracy, increased decentralisation, increasing social and political awareness, digital penetration, shifts in demography, demand for quality services by common citizens has been accelerating at a faster pace. In such a scenario, the role of State is critical for promoting equity in access to services.
"Accelerating India's Development" holistically looks at India’s growth trajectory since gaining independence – it rounds up all where it has done well including unity, upholding the integrity of its constitution, retaining democratic values at its core. It also does not mince words to convey where all the nation has faltered such as falling short in delivery of public services including…
Income and Employment Intensive Growth Agenda for India: The paper examines income and employment status in the Indian labour force to identify policy attention and follow up. The macroeconomic policies taken during last one decade are yielding positive results leading to expansion of manufacturing and services and structural transformation in the economy.
An Analysis of India's Social Welfare Programs: In a democracy, the state's role is to promote societal welfare. According to Aristotle, the state should not only ensure its survival but also improve the quality of life for its citizens. The state has a moral responsibility to its citizens. Modern views agree that the state should provide essential services like education,…
Digital Innovations in Social Protection: Trends, Challenges, and Solutions: The integration of digital technologies into social protection systems represents a transformative shift with profound implications for the delivery of welfare services. This chapter explores the evolving landscape of digital innovations in social protection, contextualising these developments within the broader framework of universal social protection and a systemic approach to welfare.
One of the most crucial aspects of our society is law enforcement, which deals with issues of law and order nationwide. It is an essential component of the state's legal system. The British government introduced a Police Act in 1861, which is still very relevant and based on policing.
India’s Vision for 2047 aims to transform the nation into a developed country, with healthcare being pivotal for this progress. Achieving universal health coverage and modernising healthcare infrastructure are essential for fostering a healthy productive population, which in turn drives economic growth and reduces poverty.
Several challenges linger in the Indian education system, like rote learning, the non-existence of practical skills among students, and disparities in access to quality education. To deal with the criticism for excessive curriculum and unreasonable focus on rote learning, this chapter examines the strategies comprising the building blocks to reform Indian schools.
Social development is expected to promote holistic improvement of individuals, institutions and their surrounding environments. Looking at the pace of development in India, the economy of most states requires strategic prioritization to accelerate improved well-being of the people. Accessibility to health, school education and public security are critical to the edifice of social development.
India is the largest democracy in the world inhabited by about 1.36 billion people over an area of 3287 thousand square kilometers according to an estimate for 2021 based on Census 2011. The Indian economy is characterised as a middle-income emerging market economy. In the last three decades the economy has faced three major crises, i.e., balance of payment crisis…
Neoliberal policies pursued by India since 1990s have created a space for private enterprises hitherto occupied by the state entities, unshackled the existing enterprises and introduced reforms to facilitate private initiative. This chapter looks into the ecosystem of the private sector in general and the developments in three specific sectors- urban mobility, water supply and housing, to draw lessons for…
This Chapter highlights the gradual transformation from Personnel Administration to Strategic Human Resource Management over the years in Government of India. However, there is still a long way to go. In this Chapter an attempt has been made to delineate the criticality to move towards Strategic HRM in Government of India to achieve India’s developmental goals.
Robust statistical data forms the cornerstone of an informed governance system. This paper studies the statistical system and data dissemination in the Centre and State governments in India, and the measures put in action to accelerate the data dissemination process. Arguing that the availability of high-frequency statistical data is a necessary condition for good governance, the first section of the…
In the Amrit Kaal (golden period) of independent India, the ‘citizen first’ approach guides public governance by deepening the outreach of service delivery mechanism so that international standards could be achieved in India@100. The goal can only be achieved by all inclusive governance involving stronger and effective local self-governments both panchayats and municipalities.
In modern societies, with the increasing role of the state in social and economic fields, emphasis on the quality of its governance is of prime concern to all. Indian bureaucratic system of governance is founded on the principle of rule of law, as the state power is divided amongst three chief organs, each has the its own quality under a…
This paper discusses the concept of good governance and its relations with the electoral politics in Indian context. It highlights the various strategies employed by the government and related agencies for the growth and development of the country. Major reforms pertaining to the country’s infrastructure, IT, administration, economy and public services are a few areas that have been explored in…
With the Indian government’s vision to transform India into a developed nation by 2047, marking hundred years of independence, it has become of highest importance to learn from the past, tenaciously work in the present and step towards the future with complete efficiency. In its 77 years of becoming a democracy, India has soared high with continuous transformations marked by both…
The vision of Viksit Bharat can be realised through Viksit States, and that the aspiration of Viksit Bharat should reach the grassroot level i.e. to each district, block, and village. For this, each State and District should create a vision for 2047 so as to realise Viksit Bharat @ 2047.