Why are governance reforms so important for India?
India is home to a billion people and is the world’s largest experiment in democracy. Despite its commitment to democracy as a political ideal, India consistently fares low in most indicators of citizen well being. Its institutions seem to be weak, with tremendous public disenchantment and despair. Such lack of positive attitude and feelings of helplessness, if left un-checked, can do permanent damage and leave India further behind in the global context. Reversing the cycle of compromised institutions and public disaffection begins with governance reforms. India’s problems lie not in fundamental flaws of its people or their innate potential. Nor are India’s problems due to a lack of opportunity. Over the years, India has been saddled with a governance system that is fundamentally flawed. Even the most well-intentioned public servant is quite restricted in his ability to do public good. Conversely, the ability to obstruct public good is almost unchecked. Often, ethical public service is
