"In contemporary development models, decision-making and problem-solving responsibilities are not located close to the source of information and execution defeating the objectives of development." Critically evaluate.
"In contemporary development models, decision-making and problem-solving responsibilities are not located close to the source of information and execution defeating the objectives of development." Critically evaluate.
Recent data from NITI Aayog's SDG Index 2023 reveals significant inter-state disparities, highlighting how centralized development models often fail to address local realities and needs.
Information Asymmetry in Current Development Models
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Top-Down Planning Gaps: Central schemes like PMAY-G achieved only 80% target completion due to disconnect between Delhi-based planning and ground realities across diverse states.
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Delayed Response Mechanisms: Bureaucratic layers in schemes like MGNREGA cause 2-3 month delays in wage payments, defeating the purpose of employment generation during distress periods.
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One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Uniform implementation of Ayushman Bharat faces challenges in tribal areas of Odisha and Jharkhand due to inadequate consideration of local health practices and accessibility issues.
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Resource Misallocation: Swachh Bharat Mission saw toilet construction without ensuring water availability in Rajasthan and Gujarat, showing planning-execution disconnect.
| Challenge | Impact | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Information Lag | Policy-Reality Gap | PMKSY irrigation coverage varies 40-90% across states |
| Bureaucratic Distance | Implementation Delays | MUDRA loan approval takes 45+ days vs. targeted 7 days |
| Cultural Disconnect | Low Acceptance | Digital India penetration: 87% urban vs. 31% rural |
Success Stories of Decentralized Decision-Making
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Kerala's Kudumbashree Model: Local women's groups managing ₹15,000 crore annually through decentralized planning, achieving 98% project success rate.
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Andhra Pradesh's Village Secretariats: Bringing 23 government services to doorsteps, reducing bureaucratic distance and improving service delivery by 60%.
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Tamil Nadu's Village Resource Planning Committees: Community-led watershed management covering 2.4 lakh hectares with 85% groundwater improvement.
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Telangana's Haritha Haram: Locally planned afforestation achieving 135% target through community participation and local knowledge integration.
Way Forward Through Localization
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Strengthen 73rd Amendment: Enhanced devolution of funds, functions, and functionaries to Panchayati Raj Institutions with adequate capacity building.
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Technology-Enabled Governance: Real-time data systems like e-Gram SWARAJ for transparent, responsive local governance.
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Community Participation: Mandatory social audits and Gram Sabha approvals for development projects ensuring local ownership.
The path forward lies in subsidiarity principle - decisions at the most local level possible, as demonstrated by successful implementation of PM-KISAN through direct benefit transfer, bypassing traditional bureaucratic channels for effective development outcomes."
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