Uttarakhand should be careful about not becoming an ‘Announcement Raj’. There has developed a tendency for those in the system to behave as though issuing directions to juniors, who in turn do the same to those lower in the pecking order, comprises ‘getting work done’. As numerous incidents show, those ending up actually performing the task are under-trained employees or contract workers. The definition of work seems to be sitting in an office, talking on the mobile phone while surrounded by serious looking subordinates, with the usual pile of files before them.
Those who have succeeded in reaching high positions cannot obviously be advised on their expertise in doing so. However, simple logic says that merely working on building one’s image cannot be done at the cost of everything else. Experience tells us that the true test of leadership also includes administrative ability. Government machinery has to be made to deliver, the proof of which is improvement in the overall quality of citizens’ lives. Inspiration in this regard should be taken from the late ND Tiwari, who understood the system very well and so knew how objectives could be achieved. Short- and long-term goals need to be identified and plans put into place accordingly.
It must be noted that, while on national level issues, a politician can ride on the Modi bandwagon, at the state and district levels, last-mile delivery is an absolute must. This comes from knowing how the chain works, what are the flaws, and how these can be rectified. It has been seen how a system like NEET, which was designed to give students relief from sitting separately for numerous exams, suffered damage from the actions of a miniscule few. This is the problem with every plan, project and scheme. Politicians and bureaucrats have to overcome such dangers, which requires application of mind and relentless effort. It is much more than just projecting an image. Good marketing cannot succeed for very long without a good product.
If one looks at ND Tiwari as a ‘development’ achiever, there have also been Chief Ministers who lost support despite having the right intentions, even having done some good with lasting effect. Modern day management needs a deep understanding of economic and social reality, which adherence to outdated ideologies does not provide. And, at the present, one slip and social media gobbles you up. It is hard work that ultimately delivers, specially if it is visible to the public in terms of all around improvements.
