Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The concept of ‘subsidiarity’ – meaning that decisions should be taken at the lowest appropriate level – has gained prominence in discussions of governance and decentralization. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), constituted in 2005 under the chairmanship of Veerappa Moily, extensively advocated for the application of this principle within the Indian administrative system. Recognizing the limitations of centralized control and the potential for greater efficiency and responsiveness through devolution of power, the ARC proposed numerous reforms aimed at empowering local bodies and streamlining governance processes. This answer will elaborate on the ARC’s strong case for subsidiarity, outlining its rationale and specific recommendations.
Understanding the Principle of Subsidiarity
The principle of subsidiarity, originating in Catholic social teaching, posits that a central authority should only perform tasks that cannot be performed effectively by a lower authority. It emphasizes the importance of local autonomy and decision-making, promoting efficiency, accountability, and citizen participation. In the context of public administration, it means devolving functions, funds, and functionaries to the lowest level consistent with their effective discharge.
The ARC’s Emphasis on Subsidiarity
The Second ARC identified several shortcomings in the Indian administrative system, including excessive centralization, bureaucratic delays, and a lack of responsiveness to citizen needs. It argued that these issues stemmed, in part, from a failure to adhere to the principle of subsidiarity. The ARC believed that by empowering local bodies and decentralizing decision-making, the government could improve service delivery, enhance accountability, and foster greater citizen engagement. The Commission’s reports consistently highlighted the need to shift from a ‘top-down’ approach to a more ‘bottom-up’ model of governance.
Specific ARC Recommendations Reflecting Subsidiarity
1. Local Government Empowerment (Report on Local Governance)
The ARC’s report on Local Governance (2009) strongly advocated for strengthening the financial and functional autonomy of Panchayats and Municipalities. It recommended the devolution of 3Fs – Funds, Functions, and Functionaries – to local bodies, enabling them to address local needs more effectively. This directly embodies the principle of subsidiarity by placing decision-making power closer to the citizens.
2. Citizen-Centric Administration (Report on Citizen-Centric Administration)
The ARC emphasized the need for a citizen-centric approach to administration, advocating for the establishment of ‘Citizen Charters’ and ‘Grievance Redressal Mechanisms’ at the local level. This would empower citizens to hold local officials accountable and ensure that their concerns are addressed promptly. The ARC suggested that local bodies should be responsible for monitoring the implementation of these mechanisms, further reinforcing the principle of subsidiarity.
3. Reforming the Police System (Report on Public Order)
The ARC’s report on Public Order (2006) recommended greater involvement of local communities in policing. It suggested the establishment of ‘Community Policing Forums’ and the devolution of certain policing functions to local bodies. This would enable local communities to play a more active role in maintaining law and order, aligning with the principle of subsidiarity by recognizing the importance of local knowledge and participation.
4. E-Governance (Report on E-Governance)
The ARC advocated for the use of e-governance to empower citizens and improve service delivery. It recommended the development of online portals and mobile applications that would allow citizens to access government services and information from the comfort of their homes. The ARC suggested that local bodies should be responsible for managing these platforms at the local level, ensuring that they are tailored to the specific needs of the community.
Challenges to Implementing Subsidiarity in India
- Capacity Constraints: Local bodies often lack the financial and human resources necessary to effectively discharge devolved functions.
- Political Interference: State governments may be reluctant to devolve power to local bodies due to concerns about losing control.
- Lack of Accountability: Ensuring accountability at the local level can be challenging, particularly in areas with weak institutional capacity.
- Inter-Departmental Coordination: Effective implementation of subsidiarity requires strong coordination between different government departments and agencies.
Despite these challenges, the ARC’s advocacy for subsidiarity remains highly relevant in the context of Indian governance. By empowering local bodies and decentralizing decision-making, the government can create a more responsive, accountable, and efficient administrative system.
Conclusion
The Second Administrative Reforms Commission’s strong endorsement of the principle of subsidiarity stemmed from a recognition of the limitations of centralized control and the potential benefits of devolution. While challenges to implementation remain, the ARC’s recommendations provide a valuable roadmap for strengthening local governance and fostering greater citizen participation. Moving forward, a concerted effort to address capacity constraints, promote political will, and enhance accountability will be crucial to realizing the full potential of subsidiarity in India and building a truly decentralized and responsive administrative system.
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.