Introduction
Good governance is a key element of democratic administration. It refers to a transparent, accountable, responsive, efficient, and inclusive system of governance that meets the needs of the people. In India, the concept of good governance has gained significant attention, especially after the economic reforms of the 1990s. Several initiatives have been launched by the government to improve governance quality and promote citizen-centric administration.
Meaning of Good Governance
According to the World Bank, good governance includes features such as rule of law, transparency, accountability, participatory decision-making, and effective service delivery. In the Indian context, good governance means providing effective public services, protecting citizens’ rights, ensuring social justice, and empowering people through inclusive development.
Major Good Governance Initiatives in India
1. Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005
The RTI Act empowers citizens to seek information from public authorities, enhancing transparency and accountability. It has become a powerful tool for citizens to monitor government functioning and reduce corruption.
2. Digital India Programme
Launched in 2015, this initiative aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society. It includes e-governance services like online applications, digital certificates, e-payment, and mobile platforms to bring transparency and accessibility in governance.
3. E-Governance and E-Services
Various projects such as National e-Governance Plan (NeGP), UMANG app, and Common Service Centres (CSCs) bring services like birth registration, utility bill payments, and pension disbursement closer to the people, especially in rural areas.
4. Citizen Charters
Government departments are required to publish Citizen Charters that outline the services provided, timelines, and grievance redress mechanisms. These charters promote accountability and help set service standards.
5. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
Under this initiative, subsidies and benefits are directly transferred into the bank accounts of beneficiaries, reducing leakages and ensuring timely payments. Schemes like LPG subsidy (PAHAL) and MGNREGA wages use DBT for delivery.
6. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
This scheme provides financial inclusion by opening zero-balance bank accounts for the poor, enabling them to access financial services. It is an important step toward inclusive governance.
7. Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013
To combat corruption, the Lokpal (at the central level) and Lokayuktas (at the state level) were established to investigate complaints against public servants and ensure ethical governance.
8. Sevottam Model
This is a quality management framework for improving public service delivery. It focuses on citizen charters, grievance redress mechanisms, and service delivery capabilities.
9. Good Governance Day
December 25 is observed as Good Governance Day in India, to promote awareness among citizens and government officials about the need for ethical and efficient governance.
10. Mission Karmayogi
Launched to reform civil services, this initiative aims to build the capacity of government employees and improve their performance through continuous training and feedback systems.
Principles of Good Governance in Indian Context
- Transparency: Through open information systems and RTI.
- Accountability: Through citizen feedback, audits, and service charters.
- Inclusiveness: Through welfare schemes targeting marginalized groups.
- Efficiency: By using technology to streamline services.
- Rule of Law: By strengthening legal institutions and anti-corruption bodies.
Conclusion
India’s good governance initiatives reflect the country’s commitment to making governance more people-centric, transparent, and effective. While significant progress has been made, challenges like bureaucratic resistance, digital divide, and corruption still exist. Continuous reforms, better implementation, and active citizen participation are essential to realizing the full potential of good governance in India.