Q. To achieve holistic development goal, a civil servant acts as an enabler and active facilitator of growth rather than a regulator. What specific measures will you suggest to achieve this goal?

Model Answer:

The contemporary governance paradigm demands civil servants transition from traditional regulatory roles to becoming enablers and facilitators, partnering with citizens to co-create development solutions rather than merely enforcing compliance.

Specific Measures:

1. Procedural Reforms:
• Single-window clearances eliminating multiple departmental approvals (PRAGATI platform example)
• Time-bound service delivery with deemed approval provisions reducing bureaucratic delays
• Risk-based compliance focusing oversight on high-risk areas while simplifying low-risk procedures

2. Participatory Governance:
Decentralized planning through community consultation ensures need-based initiatives with local ownership. Social audits and citizen feedback mechanisms (Jan Sunwais model) create accountability while empowering beneficiaries to scrutinize implementation.

3. Technology as Enabler:
• Digital platforms for transparent grievance redressal and service delivery
• Data-driven governance using analytics to identify development gaps (JAM trinity success)
• Online self-certification reducing physical interface and corruption

4. Attitudinal Transformation:
Shifting from ‘mai-baap’ culture to partnership approach requires empathy and solution-orientation. Focus must shift from outlays to outcomes (Armstrong Pame’s crowdfunded road). Proactive information dissemination beyond RTI requirements builds trust.

5. Capacity Building:
Mentorship programs for entrepreneurs/SHGs replace inspection-raj while field immersion ensures ground-reality understanding.

Conclusion:
This transformation requires institutional reforms complemented by individual initiative, making civil servants partners in India’s development journey.