Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- Purpose: Introduce the topic of cadre-based civil services in India and their significance in governance since independence.
- Context: Briefly mention the dual role of these services in facilitating development and the criticisms regarding their impact on change.
Relevant Facts
- The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) was established in 1946 and has been central to India’s governance framework (Source: Government of India).
2. Arguments in Favor of Slow Change Due to Cadre-Based Civil Services
A. Resistance to Change
- Description: Discuss how the hierarchical structure leads to resistance against new ideas and innovations.
Relevant Facts
- Bureaucratic inertia often stems from a risk-averse culture within civil services (Source: Administrative Reforms Commission Reports).
B. Lack of Accountability
- Description: Explain the accountability issues within the cadre-based system that lead to inefficiencies.
Relevant Facts
- Civil services often operate with a lack of clear accountability mechanisms, leading to delays in decision-making (Source: Various studies on bureaucratic accountability).
C. Red Tapism
- Description: Describe how bureaucratic procedures create excessive red tape, hindering progress.
Relevant Facts
- Numerous reports highlight the impact of red tape on project delays and inefficiencies in public administration (Source: World Bank reports on governance).
D. Transferable Nature of Jobs
- Description: Discuss how frequent transfers disrupt continuity and slow down policy implementation.
Relevant Facts
- Studies indicate that frequent transfers can lead to a lack of long-term focus on policy initiatives (Source: Research on administrative continuity).
3. Arguments Against the Cadre-Based System as a Cause of Slow Change
A. Stability of Tenure
- Description: Argue that the cadre-based system provides stability essential for governance.
Relevant Facts
- The structure allows for experienced officers to govern diverse regions, ensuring policy continuity (Source: Various governance assessments).
B. Wide Experience
- Description: Highlight the diverse experiences gained by officers, which can enhance policy-making.
Relevant Facts
- Civil servants often work in multiple regions and departments, bringing varied perspectives to their roles (Source: Government reports on civil service training).
C. Role in Policy Implementation
- Description: Discuss the critical role of cadre-based civil services in executing policies effectively.
Relevant Facts
- Successful programs, such as the polio eradication initiative, demonstrate the effectiveness of civil servants in challenging circumstances (Source: WHO reports).
4. Conclusion
- Summary: Recap the arguments on both sides regarding the impact of cadre-based civil services on change in India.
- Final Thought: Emphasize the need for administrative reforms that address inefficiencies while maintaining the strengths of the cadre-based system.
Model Answer
Introduction
The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and other cadre-based civil services have been pivotal in shaping governance in India since independence. While they have successfully implemented various development schemes, criticisms arise regarding their role in promoting slow change due to bureaucratic inertia and structural issues.
Arguments in Favor
Resistance to Change
The hierarchical and generalist nature of cadre-based civil services often fosters a resistance to change. This rigidity can hinder the adoption of new ideas and innovations, slowing progress in various sectors.
Lack of Accountability
These services frequently lack stringent accountability mechanisms. This absence can result in inefficiencies, leading to delays in decision-making and the implementation of crucial policies.
Red Tapism
The bureaucratic procedures inherent in these services often lead to excessive red tape, causing significant delays and inefficiencies. For instance, the complexity of obtaining necessary approvals can stall development projects.
Transferable Nature of Jobs
Frequent officer transfers disrupt the continuity necessary for effective policy implementation. This instability can lead to inconsistent application of policies, further slowing change.
Arguments Against
Stability of Tenure
Despite frequent transfers, cadre-based civil services provide a stable administrative structure vital for policy continuity in a diverse nation like India. This continuity is essential for effective governance.
Wide Experience
Officers in these services accumulate diverse experiences by serving in various regions and departments. This broad exposure can enhance effective policy-making and implementation.
Role in Policy Implementation
Cadre-based civil services play a critical role in implementing policies at the grassroots level. For instance, the success of the polio eradication program in India is largely attributed to the dedicated efforts of these civil servants.
Conclusion
While the cadre-based civil services in India present structural challenges that can impede change, they also possess strengths that enhance governance. To foster faster change, it is essential to pursue administrative reforms that address inefficiencies while leveraging the strengths of this system.
Introduction
The cadre-based civil services organization in India, characterized by a centralized and hierarchical structure, has been instrumental in administrative functioning since independence. However, it has been argued that this structure may contribute to slow change in the country.
Centralized Structure and Bureaucratic Rigidity
The cadre-based system, including services like the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS), has often been criticized for its centralized structure and bureaucratic rigidity. For example, the five-year plans and various policy reforms often face delays due to lengthy approval processes and rigid adherence to traditional practices. The implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), despite its eventual success, faced significant delays and complexities due to bureaucratic hurdles.
Lack of Accountability and Innovation
The hierarchical nature of the cadre system can result in a lack of accountability and slow innovation. Bureaucrats are often transferred across states and departments, leading to a lack of continuity and deep understanding of local issues. For instance, the implementation of the Swachh Bharat Mission faced challenges due to insufficient local adaptation and follow-up, partly attributed to the frequent transfers of officials.
Recent Reforms and Changes
Recent initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission and Ease of Doing Business reforms seek to address some of these issues by promoting entrepreneurial thinking and streamlining processes. However, the fundamental cadre-based structure still poses challenges to rapid adaptability and effective change.
Conclusion
While the cadre-based civil services organization has been crucial in maintaining administrative consistency, its centralized and rigid structure can contribute to slow change. Addressing these challenges through ongoing reforms and increased flexibility can help accelerate progress and adapt to evolving needs.