Integral View of Public Administration

Introduction

The integral view of Public Administration emphasizes a holistic and integrated approach to understanding and managing public administration. This perspective contrasts with the traditional view, which often considers public administration as a collection of discrete functions and processes.

Key Elements of the Integral View

1. Interconnectedness of Functions
   • Holistic Approach: The integral view posits that public administration should be seen as a cohesive system where different functions (such as policy-making, implementation, and evaluation) are interconnected. This approach facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of how administrative processes influence and depend on each other.
   • Example: The implementation of the National Health Mission (NHM) in India illustrates this interconnectedness. The mission integrates health services, policy planning, and community health efforts into a unified framework to address public health challenges effectively.
2. Dynamic Interaction with the Environment
   • Adaptive Administration: The integral view acknowledges that public administration must adapt to changing societal, economic, and political environments. This dynamic interaction requires flexibility and responsiveness from administrative systems.
   • Example: The Smart Cities Mission in India demonstrates this adaptability. Cities are encouraged to develop smart solutions tailored to their unique challenges and environments, illustrating how public administration must evolve in response to technological and urban development trends.
3. Stakeholder Integration
   • Inclusive Governance: The integral view emphasizes the importance of engaging various stakeholders, including citizens, private sector entities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This integration ensures that public administration reflects diverse interests and needs.
   • Example: The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) includes inputs from local governments, real estate developers, and beneficiaries. This multi-stakeholder approach helps in formulating housing policies that are more inclusive and effective.
4. Synergy and Coordination
   • Enhanced Efficiency: Effective public administration requires coordination among different government departments and agencies. The integral view promotes synergy to enhance overall administrative efficiency and effectiveness.
   • Example: The Jal Jeevan Mission focuses on providing safe and adequate drinking water to every rural household. Its success depends on coordination between various levels of government, including central, state, and local bodies, along with community involvement.

Conclusion

The integral view of Public Administration offers a comprehensive and dynamic perspective that integrates various functions, adapts to environmental changes, involves multiple stakeholders, and fosters synergy. This approach is crucial for addressing complex governance challenges and ensuring that public administration is responsive and effective in meeting the needs of society.

By understanding and applying this integral view, aspiring UPSC Mains candidates can better appreciate the complexities of public administration and contribute to more effective governance in their future roles.