States:
The States of the Union of India have evolved from being mere appendages of the
Centre, to being the actual drivers of national development. The development of States must
thus become the national goal, as the nation’s progress lies in the progress of States. As a
consequence, the one-size-fits-all approach, often inherent in centralized planning, is no
longer practical or efficient. States need to be heard and given the flexibility required for
effective implementation. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar had said with great foresight that it is
"unreasonable to centralise powers where central control and uniformity is not clearly
essential or is impracticable"
. Therefore, while emanating from global experiences and
national synergy, our strategies will need to be calibrated and customized to local needs and
opportunities.
Technology:
Advancements in technology and access to information have unleashed the
creative energy that emerges from the Indian kaleidoscope. They have integrated our varied
regions and eco-systems in an interlinked national economy and society, opening up
newer avenues of coordination and cooperation. Technology is also playing a substantial role
in enhancing transparency as well as efficiency, holding government more accountable. It thus
needs to be made central to our systems of policy and governance.
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