[dropcap]B[/dropcap]arely 48 hours into office and PM Narendra Modi has identified “all important policy issues” as a portfolio subject within his remit in the allocation of Cabinet responsibilities Tuesday, lending to his office powers across ministries to control and direct crucial policy matters.
This has been done with the intent to focus on policy making in the PMO and ensure that all ministries obtain approvals at the initial stages rather than start consultations by moving Cabinet notes or issue policy guidelines without prior consent.
As mentioned in this column earlier Modi as expected is bringing in the system he had put in place in Gujarat that had helped bring about predictability and uniformity in policy, particularly in the industry sector. Executing this at the Centre analysts say will demand streamlining procedures and, at some point, the PMO may even look to creating a category that would separate important policy subjects. Based on this, once an issue of such importance is identified, the PMO could play a more direct role regardless of the ministry.The sound of change is rapidly rolling down the corridors of power faster than the carpets can be rolled out for the Prime Minister and all his men and women of the Cabinet, 25 to be precise.
A clear mention of the allocation of duties means that the Prime Minister can authoritatively take the lead in not just policy control but even policy authorship. Instead of getting a ministry to generate a Cabinet note on any policy subject through discussion and consultation, the PMO can direct the Cabinet Secretariat to have a note put up. This authority could also be used to ensure compliance and, in a way, institutionalize a strong check on all ministries.
At the moment, however, this subject has left much of the bureaucracy groping on how this would be implemented. But to those familiar with Modi’s governance style, this is the first step towards exercising control over ministers and creating the official basis for getting senior officials across ministries to brief him directly on what he may define as an important policy issue.
A day after taking charge, he laid thrust on leveraging modern technology and developing systems and processes for effective monitoring and resolution of issues which are particularly brought to his office.
But what is particularly striking is that Modi is reported to have said that his government must stress on resolving the needs of the people on a fast track basis. That the strength of India and it progress lies in the progress of its states.
“The Prime Minister also indicated that he would like his office to consider issues, especially those raised by the states on priority and with sensitivity,” He also underscored the importance of addressing concerns raised by people’s representatives personally or through parliamentary procedures. He emphasised on team work to bring in good governance and encouraged officials to freely interact with him with their ideas, the statement said.
What will be the issues that people in Nagaland raise? You and I can make our lists and compare them. Whatever the list contains, what will be common is the need to root out corruption and instill back honesty and pride at work and at play.
