Slipping Good Governance: Challenges and Solutions in India

Introduction

Good governance is the backbone of a functional democracy and sustainable development. It ensures transparency, accountability, efficiency, and responsiveness in public administration. However, recent incidents like the New Delhi railway stampede, which claimed 18 lives, highlight the governance challenges in India. The mishandling of inquiry reports, deflection of responsibility, and lack of preventive measures raise serious concerns about governance failures.

What is Good Governance?

Good governance refers to a transparent, accountable, and participatory administrative mechanism that ensures effective decision-making and service delivery. It is crucial for fostering public trust, institutional efficiency, and socio-economic development.

Key Principles of Good Governance:

• Transparency – Open access to government information.

• Accountability – Responsibility of officials for decisions.

• Rule of Law – Fair and unbiased enforcement of laws.

• Efficiency – Optimum use of resources.

• Equity & Inclusivity – Ensuring participation of all sections of society.

• Responsiveness – Quick redressal of public grievances.

Challenges to Good Governance in India

1. Lack of Transparency: Inquiry reports of public disasters are often concealed, limiting accountability.

2. Bureaucratic Red Tape: Slow decision-making and inefficiency delay crucial governance measures.

3. Political Interference: Frequent transfers and external influence hinder independent functioning of institutions.

4. Corruption & Nepotism: Misallocation of resources and favoritism lead to governance deficits.

5. Weak Accountability Mechanisms: The absence of clear responsibility results in repeated administrative failures.

Government Initiatives for Good Governance

1. Right to Information Act (RTI), 2005 – Empowers citizens to seek government information, enhancing transparency.

2. PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) – A real-time monitoring system for expediting government projects.

3. Digital India Initiative – Strengthens e-governance by making government services accessible online.

4. Mission Karmayogi – Aims to reform civil service training for improved public administration.

5. Citizen’s Charter & Sevottam Model – Encourages government accountability and service excellence.

Way Forward: Strengthening Good Governance in India

1. Enhancing Accountability – Establishing independent inquiry bodies and making investigation reports publicly accessible.

2. Bureaucratic Reforms – Promoting a transparent appointment process and reducing undue political influence.

3. Technology-Driven Governance – Utilizing AI-based predictive models, real-time digital monitoring, and expanding e-governance.

4. Citizen Participation – Encouraging active engagement of citizens in policy-making and decision-making processes.

5. Anti-Corruption Measures – Strengthening whistleblower protection laws and enforcing transparent funding mechanisms.

Conclusion

Good governance is fundamental for a robust democracy and sustainable growth. India must focus on strengthening institutional efficiency, ensuring transparency, and enhancing accountability to regain public trust. A participatory governance model that prioritizes public interest over bureaucratic complexities is the need of the hour. By embracing technology and fostering citizen participation, India can pave the way for a more effective governance system.

---

MCQs for UPSC CSE

1. Which of the following is NOT a principle of good governance?                                  a) Transparency
   b) Accountability
   c) Bureaucratic delay
   d) Rule of Law
   Answer: c) Bureaucratic delay

2. Which initiative aims to provide real-time monitoring of government projects?            a) PRAGATI
   b) Digital India
   c) Mission Karmayogi
   d) Sevottam Model
   Answer: a) PRAGATI

3. What does the RTI Act, 2005 ensure?                                                                                  a) Government secrecy
   b) Right to education
   c) Access to government records
   d) Political interference
   Answer: c) Access to government records

4. Which of the following is a key challenge to good governance in India?                        a) Strengthening accountability
   b) Political interference
   c) Citizen participation
   d) Digital governance
   Answer: b) Political interference

---

Mains Question:

Hunger and poverty remain the biggest challenges to good governance in India. Evaluate the measures taken by successive governments to address these issues and suggest further improvements. (UPSC-2017).

Also Read:

India-Mauritius Relations: A Strategic Partnership

India-Mauritius Relations: A Strategic Partnership

Introduction India and Mauritius have historically shared deep-rooted ties based on cultural, economic, and strategic partnerships. The recent upgrade of their bilateral relationship to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership underscores their commitment to regional security, trade, and development. This article explores the key aspects of India-Mauritius relations, highlighting major agreements, challenges, and future prospects.

Historical Background

Colonial Era & Early Connections (Pre-1947)

• Indian indentured laborers formed the backbone of Mauritius’ workforce under British rule.

• Mahatma Gandhi’s visit in 1901 ignited political awareness among the Indian diaspora in Mauritius.

Post-Independence Era (1947–1968)

• India actively supported Mauritius' anti-colonial movement and continues to back its claim over the Chagos Archipelago.

• Diplomatic relations were formally established after Mauritius gained independence in 1968.

Economic & Strategic Expansion (1983–2020)

• Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) 1983 made Mauritius a major FDI gateway for India.

• Maritime security collaboration, digital partnerships, and metro infrastructure projects strengthened ties.

• Mauritius joined India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative in 2020.

Recent Developments (2021-Present)

• Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) 2021 boosted trade ties.

• Mauritius aligned with India’s Indo-Pacific vision.

• ISRO launched Mauritius’ first satellite in 2022.

• India expanded cooperation on Blue Economy and revised DTAA in 2024.

Key Highlights of the Joint Declaration

Defence & Maritime Security

• Refit of Coast Guard Ships: Victory, Valiant, and Barracuda refurbished with Indian support.

• Joint Maritime Surveillance: Indian naval ships and aircraft to enhance Mauritius’ maritime security.

• Security of EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone): Development of the Agalega runway and jetty to counter growing Chinese influence.

Infrastructure & Development

• 100 Electric Buses and charging infrastructure delivered to promote clean transport.

• Water Pipeline Project: 100 km of pipelines to be replaced under India’s ₹487 crore rupee-denominated credit line.

• New Parliament Building: India to gift a new Mauritius Parliament building as a symbol of democracy.

Digital Cooperation & Capacity Building

• E-Judiciary System: India to assist Mauritius in digitizing judicial services.

• Training for Civil Services & Police: 500 Mauritian officials to be trained in India over five years.

• Cybersecurity & ICT Collaboration: Strengthening digital infrastructure for cyber resilience.

Health & Education

• Jan Aushadhi Kendras: Expansion of affordable generic medicine stores in Mauritius.

• Ayush Centre of Excellence: Promotion of Indian traditional medicine (AYUSH) practices.

• Education & Research: Collaboration in curriculum development, science & technology policies, and student exchange programs.

Challenges in India-Mauritius Relations

China’s Growing Influence

• China’s rising strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) poses a challenge to India’s influence in Mauritius.

Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) Issues

• Delays in ratifying amendments to DTAA have created uncertainty in trade and investment relations.

Geopolitical Balancing

• Mauritius maintains neutral diplomatic ties with multiple global powers, making exclusive India-Mauritius cooperation challenging.

Economic Dependencies

• Mauritius is seeking economic diversification beyond India, reducing full-scale reliance on Indian trade and investments.

Way Forward

Strengthening Defence & Maritime Security

• Expand joint naval exercises and white shipping agreements for enhanced regional security.

Boosting Trade and Investment

• Accelerate full CECPA implementation to facilitate trade and economic diversification.

Technology Transfer & Renewable Energy

• Promote cooperation in EV technology, solar power projects, and digital governance.

Addressing DTAA & Economic Concerns

• Speed up DTAA ratification to resolve taxation issues and attract investors.

Regional Leadership

• Strengthen collaboration in IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) & Colombo Security Conclave to enhance regional cooperation.

Conclusion

India’s transition from SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) to MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) reflects its growing Indo-Pacific strategy. Strengthening maritime security, trade, and sustainable development with Mauritius will ensure mutual economic growth and regional stability.

---

MCQs for UPSC CSE

1. What is the significance of the DTAA agreement between India and Mauritius?

   • (A) Strengthens cultural ties

   • (B) Promotes tourism

   • (C) Facilitates Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

   • (D) Enhances military cooperation

   Answer: (C) Facilitates Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

2. Which initiative aims to strengthen India’s maritime security cooperation with Mauritius?

   • (A) BIMSTEC

   • (B) SAGAR

   • (C) BRICS

   • (D) QUAD

   Answer: (B) SAGAR

3. What is the primary focus of the Indo-Mauritius CECPA agreement?

   • (A) Defence and security cooperation

   • (B) Trade and economic partnerships

   • (C) Climate change initiatives

   • (D) Space exploration

   Answer: (B) Trade and economic partnerships

4. The Agalega Island development project between India and Mauritius primarily focuses on:

   • (A) Setting up an IT hub

   • (B) Maritime security and infrastructure

   • (C) Promoting tourism

   • (D) Agricultural cooperation

   Answer: (B) Maritime security and infrastructure

5. Which year did India and Mauritius sign the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA)?

   • (A) 2018

   • (B) 2019

   • (C) 2021

   • (D) 2023

   Answer: (C) 2021

---

Mains Question for UPSC

Q: Discuss the significance of India-Mauritius relations in the context of maritime security, trade, and economic cooperation. How does India’s SAGAR initiative align with Mauritius’ strategic interests?

Also Read:

World Air Quality Report 2024: India’s Pollution Crisis

World Air Quality Report 2024: India’s Pollution Crisis

Introduction

The World Air Quality Report 2024, published by Swiss air technology firm IQAir, provides a comprehensive analysis of global air pollution levels. The report highlights concerning trends and offers insights into the factors contributing to deteriorating air quality worldwide. With air pollution emerging as a significant health crisis, it is crucial to understand its impact, causes, and potential solutions.

India's Air Pollution Crisis

High PM2.5 Levels:

India's average PM2.5 concentration in 2024 was 50.6 µg/m³, surpassing the World Health Organization's (WHO) safe limit of 5 µg/m³ by ten times. This extreme pollution level makes India one of the most affected nations globally.

Most Polluted Cities in India:

India dominates the list of the world's most polluted cities, with 13 out of the top 20 being from the country. Byrnihat (128.2 µg/m³) and Delhi (91.6 µg/m³) rank among the worst, suffering from severe air quality deterioration.

Health Impact of Air Pollution:

Air pollution is a leading cause of premature mortality, with an estimated 2.1 million deaths in India in 2021 directly linked to poor air quality. Chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and cancer are among the severe health consequences.

Regional Air Quality Challenges:

Northern states like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh face extreme pollution due to a combination of crop burning, industrial emissions, and high vehicular traffic.

Global Air Pollution Status

The Widespread Air Quality Crisis:

Shockingly, 99% of the world’s population breathes air exceeding WHO’s PM2.5 limit. Only 12 countries meet safe air quality levels, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter regulations.

Most Polluted Countries:

• Chad: 91.8 µg/m³

• Bangladesh: 78 µg/m³

• Pakistan: 73.7 µg/m³

• Congo: 58.2 µg/m³

• India: 50.6 µg/m³

Health Risks of Air Pollution:

Globally, air pollution caused 1 million deaths in 2021, making it the second-largest risk factor for mortality after high blood pressure. South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East are the most affected, while Europe and Oceania benefit from stringent regulations and renewable energy adoption.

Primary Causes of Air Pollution

1. Fossil Fuel Combustion:

   • Power plants, industries, and vehicles release high levels of PM2.5, significantly deteriorating air quality.

2. Crop Burning:

   • Stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh contributes to nearly 60% of Delhi’s winter pollution.

3. Industrial Emissions:

   • Heavy industries, distilleries, and steel plants significantly increase air pollution levels in cities like Byrnihat.

4. Construction Dust:

   • Unregulated urban expansion and infrastructure projects result in excessive particulate matter emissions.

Challenges in Controlling Air Pollution

1. Weak Policy Enforcement:

   • Ineffective implementation of pollution control policies like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) weakens air quality management.

2. Lack of Coordination:

   • States follow different pollution control measures, leading to inconsistent results.

3. Public Apathy:

   • Low awareness and weak compliance hinder efforts to mitigate pollution.

4. Rising Vehicular Emissions:

   • Traffic congestion and fossil fuel dependence contribute to escalating pollution levels.

5. Limited Air Quality Monitoring:

   • Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities lack real-time air quality tracking systems, making regulatory action difficult.

Effective Solutions to Combat Air Pollution

1. Strict Enforcement of GRAP:

   • Banning stubble burning and limiting industrial emissions can significantly improve air quality.

2. Investment in Public Transport:

   • Encouraging electric vehicles (EVs) and expanding metro networks will reduce vehicular pollution.

3. Green Energy Transition:

   • Switching from coal-based power plants to renewable energy sources can curb pollution.

4. Better Urban Planning:

   • Creating green belts, regulating construction dust, and improving air filtration can enhance air quality.

5. Community Awareness Programs:

   • Educating people about air pollution’s health risks and mitigation strategies is crucial for long-term improvement.

Conclusion

The World Air Quality Report 2024 exposes the growing air pollution crisis in India and worldwide. Despite the presence of regulatory policies, their weak enforcement has led to little improvement. To tackle this crisis effectively, India must prioritize stricter pollution control measures, promote sustainable urban planning, and encourage public participation. Failure to act swiftly will have dire consequences on public health and the environment.

---

MCQs on Air Pollution for UPSC CSE

1. What is the safe limit of PM2.5 concentration set by the WHO?

   • (A) 15 µg/m³

   • (B) 10 µg/m³

   • (C) 5 µg/m³

   • (D) 50 µg/m³

   Answer: (C) 5 µg/m³

2. Which Indian city recorded the highest PM2.5 levels in the World Air Quality Report 2024?

   • (A) Mumbai

   • (B) Delhi

   • (C) Byrnihat

   • (D) Patna

   Answer: (C) Byrnihat

3. What is the primary cause of Delhi’s winter pollution?

   • (A) Industrial emissions

   • (B) Vehicular traffic

   • (C) Crop burning

   • (D) Construction dust

   Answer: (C) Crop burning

Mains Question

Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) released by the WHO. How are these different from the 2005 update? What changes in India’s National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve these revised standards?

Also Read:

The Mini Forest initiative