Government Policies in Various Sectors

Model Answer

Challenges in the Existing Sports Governance Framework in India

India’s sports governance structure faces several critical challenges, which have resulted in mismanagement, inefficiencies, and corruption. The system is divided into two wings: government bodies like the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), and sports organizations under the Olympic Charter, such as the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). However, this dual structure has not been effective in driving sports development.

1. Unclear Roles and Responsibilities
   The overlap of responsibilities between various organizations often leads to confusion. The government provides financial and infrastructural support, while the IOA organizes events. This lack of clarity has caused inefficiencies and gaps in the sports system.
2. Inadequate Professionalization
   Many sports organizations are dominated by politicians, retired bureaucrats, and businessmen, undermining professionalism. Their stronghold in sports federations has hampered the growth of sports management in India, making the system less effective.
3. Poor Accountability and Transparency
   Irregularities in revenue management, non-transparent decision-making, and discretionary powers have led to widespread corruption and a lack of accountability within sports organizations.
4. Failure to Conduct Timely Elections
   The IOA’s failure to hold timely elections in 2022 resulted in a warning from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), threatening to suspend India. This lack of democracy within sports bodies contributes to mismanagement.

Suggested Measures for Improvement

1. Sports Legislation
   A comprehensive sports law should be enacted to separate governance from management, ensuring accountability and clearly defining the roles of stakeholders.
2. Ensuring Transparency and Accountability
   Transparency can be improved by mandating public disclosures for decisions and financial statements, and introducing regular audits.
3. Adopting Global Best Practices
   India can learn from the Australian sports governance model, establishing an independent body, the Sports Regulatory Authority of India (SRAI), to oversee sports management.
4. Removing Political Interference
   Sporting organizations must resist political pressure and ensure that selections are based purely on merit, not political connections.
5. Conducting Timely Elections
   Timely, transparent elections are essential to ensure democratic functioning within sports organizations.

In conclusion, India’s sports governance requires urgent reforms to address the challenges of mismanagement and corruption. Legislative changes, increased professionalism, and transparent practices are crucial for improving the sports ecosystem.

Model Answer

Introduction

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), enacted in 2005, aims to provide 100 days of wage employment annually to rural households, foster inclusive development, and strengthen rural infrastructure. However, its effectiveness in achieving these goals remains a subject of analysis.

Capacity Building of Rural Poor

In the financial year 2023-24, MGNREGA generated 3.1 billion person-days of employment, significantly aiding rural livelihoods. Additionally, initiatives like Project “UNNATI” have enhanced workers’ skills, equipping them for sustainable employment.

Creation of Productive Assets

As per the Economic Survey 2022-23, MGNREGA-funded projects, such as water body renovation and land reclamation, have improved agricultural productivity, increased household incomes, reduced migration, and alleviated rural indebtedness.

Social Inclusion

The scheme has effectively involved marginalized communities. In 2022-23, Scheduled Castes (SCs) constituted 19.75%, Scheduled Tribes (STs) 17.47%, and women 57.39% of total participants, promoting equitable development.

Strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)

Panchayats play a critical role in planning and executing MGNREGA projects, while Gram Sabhas conduct regular social audits, fostering transparency and accountability.

Limitations of MGNREGA

Violation of Rights-Based Approach

A significant number of applicants are denied employment. For instance, only 9-14% of disabled persons and 5-9% of senior citizens in Bihar benefited from the scheme between 2014-2019.

Non-Uniform Wages and Payment Delays

Wage rates under MGNREGA vary across states, ranging from Rs. 193 to Rs. 318, with frequent delays in disbursal. Only 3% of job seekers received unemployment allowance in the past five years.

Ineffective Social Audits

Despite being mandated, social audits are inconsistent. In 2020-21, only 29,611 Gram Panchayats conducted audits, leaving many projects unexamined.

Use of Labour-Displacing Machinery

The 2021 CAG Report highlighted the widespread use of machinery, such as tractors, in Bihar, undermining the scheme’s labour-intensive mandate.

Conclusion

MGNREGA has significantly contributed to rural development but faces critical challenges. Measures like indexing wages to rural inflation, appointing a district-level Ombudsperson, and increasing financial allocation can enhance its efficiency and better address rural distress.