Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The statement “Policy is being made as it is being administered and administered as it is being made” encapsulates the reality of modern public administration, moving away from the traditional, rational-comprehensive model. Traditionally, policy-making was viewed as a top-down, linear process – formulation, followed by implementation. However, this view is increasingly challenged by the recognition that policy is a continuous process of adaptation and learning. This iterative relationship is crucial for effective governance, particularly in complex and rapidly changing environments. The statement highlights the inherent dynamism of the policy cycle, where implementation provides feedback that shapes future policy decisions, and policy formulation is constantly adjusted based on real-world experiences during implementation.
The Intertwined Nature of Policy-Making and Implementation
The traditional view of policy-making as a distinct phase preceding implementation is increasingly untenable. Several factors contribute to this intertwined relationship:
- Incrementalism: Charles Lindblom’s theory of incrementalism (1959) posits that policies are not made through comprehensive analysis but through small, incremental adjustments to existing policies. These adjustments are often made during implementation as administrators encounter unforeseen challenges and opportunities.
- Mixed Scanning: Amitai Etzioni’s ‘mixed scanning’ approach suggests a combination of rational-comprehensive planning and incrementalism. It involves broad overview scans to identify key policy areas, followed by focused, incremental adjustments during implementation.
- Feedback Mechanisms: Implementation generates crucial feedback – data, reports, stakeholder responses – that informs policy adjustments. This feedback loop is essential for policy effectiveness.
- Street-Level Bureaucracy: Michael Lipsky’s concept of ‘street-level bureaucracy’ (1980) highlights how frontline workers (teachers, police officers, social workers) exercise considerable discretion in implementing policies, effectively shaping policy in practice.
Policy Made During Administration
Implementation often necessitates policy adjustments due to:
- Unforeseen Circumstances: Policies formulated in a controlled environment may encounter unexpected realities during implementation, requiring modifications. For example, the initial rollout of the Aadhaar scheme (2009) faced challenges related to biometric authentication failures, leading to adjustments in the enrolment process and acceptance criteria.
- Political Pressure: Implementation can be influenced by political considerations, leading to changes in policy direction. The implementation of the National Food Security Act, 2013 varied across states due to differing political priorities and administrative capacities.
- Resource Constraints: Limited resources may force administrators to prioritize certain aspects of a policy over others, effectively altering its scope and impact.
Administration Shaped by Policy-Making
Conversely, policy formulation is also influenced by the realities of administration:
- Administrative Feasibility: Policy-makers must consider the administrative capacity and resources available for implementation when formulating policies. A policy that is theoretically sound but administratively unfeasible is unlikely to succeed.
- Organizational Culture: The culture and values of implementing agencies can shape how policies are interpreted and implemented.
- Stakeholder Involvement: Engaging stakeholders during policy formulation can improve implementation by ensuring that policies are aligned with their needs and concerns. The MGNREGA (2005) benefited from extensive consultations with civil society organizations during its design, contributing to its relatively successful implementation.
Case Study: The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (2014)
The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan provides a compelling example. While the initial policy focused on building toilets, implementation revealed the need for behavioral change communication, waste management infrastructure, and community participation. The policy was subsequently adjusted to incorporate these elements, demonstrating how administration shaped policy-making. Furthermore, the success of the campaign varied significantly across states, highlighting the importance of local context and administrative capacity.
| Policy Phase | Initial Approach | Adjustments During Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Swachh Bharat Abhiyan | Toilet Construction | Behavioral Change Communication, Waste Management, Community Participation |
| Aadhaar Scheme | Universal Biometric ID | Flexible Authentication Methods, Inclusion of Vulnerable Groups |
Conclusion
The statement “Policy is being made as it is being administered and administered as it is being made” accurately reflects the dynamic and iterative nature of the policy process. Recognizing this interconnectedness is crucial for effective governance. Moving beyond rigid, top-down approaches and embracing adaptive management, continuous monitoring, and stakeholder engagement are essential for ensuring that policies are both well-intentioned and effectively implemented. A more nuanced understanding of this relationship will lead to more responsive, resilient, and ultimately, more successful public policies.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.