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GS Paper: GS2

  • SC approves extension of Delhi Chief Secretary: Why governments keep their favourite bureaucrats

     

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs 2nd National Conference of Chief Secretaries in New Delhi

    Central idea 

    The Supreme Court’s approval of a six-month extension for Delhi’s Chief Secretary, Naresh Kumar, sparks debates on judicial intervention in administrative decisions. Amid corruption allegations and public scrutiny, the extension raises broader questions about retirement age and the need for transparent benchmarks in recognizing exemplary service.

    Key Highlights:

    • Supreme Court’s Approval: The Supreme Court sanctioned a six-month extension for Delhi’s Chief Secretary, Naresh Kumar, deeming it compliant with existing rules.
    • Common Practice: Granting extensions to top officers is not new and offers a sense of continuity and familiarity for the government.
    • Legislation and Justification: The All India Services Act permits exceptions for extensions, and the impending general elections in Delhi provide justification for the decision.
    • Legal Considerations: The legality of the 2023 amendment to the NCT Act, determining authority over services, remains under scrutiny by the Supreme Court.

    Key Challenges:

    • Corruption Allegations: Accusations of corruption against Naresh Kumar and his son have significantly impacted public perception and raised concerns about the extension.
    • Judicial Involvement Debate: The judiciary’s intervention in administrative matters has sparked debates about its role and authority in such decisions.
    • Broader Questions: The practice of granting extensions prompts broader discussions about retirement age and the need for transparent benchmarks for recognizing service.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • All India Services Act
    • NCT Act
    • Chief Secretary
    • All-India Services
    • Continuity and familiarity
    • Transparency and benchmarks
    • Retirement age

    Key Quotes:

    • “Why can’t the CM and LG resolve the issue together?” – Supreme Court
    • “An extension here or there? In the larger scheme, those who govern have more to gain by giving extensions than run the risk of disrupting carefully laid plans with newcomers.” – Author

    Critical Analysis:

    The extension of Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar’s term, while legally sound as per the Supreme Court, has ignited debates about the judiciary’s role in administrative matters. Corruption allegations and public perception challenges highlight the complexities of such decisions. The practice of extensions triggers broader discussions on retirement age and the necessity for transparent criteria to recognize exemplary service.

    Way Forward:

    • Reevaluation: Reassess the practice of extensions, considering transparent benchmarks and criteria for recognizing exceptional service.
    • Retirement Age Consideration: Explore the potential of pushing up the retirement age for All India Services.
    • Public Trust Maintenance: Address public concerns and strike a balance between administrative decisions and judicial scrutiny.

  • Kapil Sibal is wrong — judiciary’s independence is not under threat

    Kapil Sibal's three strikes bring political embarrassment for Congress

    Central idea 

    The article discusses the challenge of legislators practicing law, particularly the dual role of legislator-lawyers, raising concerns about potential conflicts and the normalization of political intervention in the judiciary. It criticizes Kapil Sibal’s confrontational approach, citing its impact on judicial independence, and emphasizes the delicate balance needed for an independent judiciary amid intertwining political and legal roles.

    Key Highlights:

    • Dual Roles of Legislator-Lawyers: Legislators practicing law face a dilemma, mixing politics with the legal profession, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
    • Normalization of Political Intervention: Allegations by Kapil Sibal suggest a trend of normalizing political intervention in the judiciary, using claims like “courts being on trial” to influence decisions.
    • False Equivalence with Emergency Era: Critique based on a false equivalence between the 1975 Emergency and present times, disregarding the unique historical context and the active role of the judiciary.

    Key Challenges:

    • Political-legal Nexus: The intertwining of political and legal roles, especially in the case of legislator-lawyers, poses challenges to the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
    • Confrontational Criticism: Sibal’s confrontational criticism, accusing the judiciary of undergoing a radical shift under external pressures, raises concerns about the impact on public trust and institutional respect.
    • Undermining Judicial Independence: Multi-layered actions that undermine judicial independence can erode public faith in legal institutions and potentially influence future verdicts.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Constitutional Amendments: Reference to the numerous constitutional amendments during the 1975 Emergency.
    • Judicial Review: The Supreme Court’s expanded role in reviewing legislation on grounds like constitutional morality, manifest arbitrariness, and transformative constitutionalism.
    • Impeachment Proceedings: Mention of the threat of impeachment proceedings against Chief Justice Dipak Misra, perceived as an attempt to pressure the judiciary.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Courts being on trial” – Described as a sophisticated tool to easily deride any unfavorable decision and question the judiciary’s independence.
    • “Institutional sabotage” – Sibal’s comments on institutional sabotage are deemed wildly inaccurate and speculative.

    Key Statements:

    • False Equivalence Critique: The critique based on a false equivalence between the 1975 Emergency and present times, emphasizing the active role of the judiciary in the current era.
    • Confrontational Criticism Impact: Sibal’s confrontational criticism may have a chilling effect on the judiciary’s functioning, potentially influencing future verdicts and legal processes.
    • Delicate Balance: Emphasizing the need to respect the delicate balance between political advocacy and judicial independence, especially for legislator-lawyers.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Defections Cases: Reference to recent Supreme Court decisions concerning defections impacting public trust in the democratic process.
    • Impeachment Proceedings Threat: Mention of the perceived attempt to pressure the judiciary through the threat of impeachment proceedings against Chief Justice Dipak Misra.
    • Sibal’s Role in Criticism: Highlighting Sibal’s consistent and atypical criticism of Supreme Court verdicts, raising questions about his dual roles.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Supreme Court’s Intrusive Role: Acknowledgment of the Supreme Court’s more intrusive role in the past decade, impacting the role of the democratically elected legislature.
    • Sibal’s Political Transition: Recognition of Kapil Sibal’s transition from a Congress leader to seeking political space, influencing his views and legal perspectives.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Intertwining Roles Challenge: The intertwining of political and legal roles challenges the delicate balance needed for an independent judiciary and erodes public trust.
    • Ethical Standards for Politician-Lawyers: The need for politicians, especially legislator-lawyers, to adhere to ethical standards and maintain the delicate balance between political advocacy and judicial independence.
    • Impact on Democracy: Actions perceived as undermining judicial independence can have a profound impact on democracy, influencing public perception and institutional respect.

    Way Forward:

    • Respect for Judicial Independence: Emphasizing the crucial need to respect the delicate balance between political advocacy and judicial independence to safeguard the credibility of legal institutions.
    • Ethical Considerations: Encouraging politicians, especially those with legal acumen, to consider ethical standards in their dual roles to avoid eroding public faith in the judiciary.
    • Public Perception Management: Considering how opinions are presented to manage public perception and maintain institutional respect, ensuring a constructive dialogue between the legal and political spheres.

  • Rajya Sabha passes Post Office Bill  

    Central Idea

    • Rajya Sabha passed the Post Office Bill, which repeals and replaces the Post Office Act of 1898.
    • The 1898 Act has seen significant amendment proposals over the years, including the 1986 Bill for aligning interception grounds with constitutional restrictions, which was not assented to by the President.

    Post Office Bill, 2023: Key Features

    • Removal of Exclusive Privileges: The Bill removes the central government’s exclusive privilege over conveying letters, a significant shift from the 1898 Act.
    • Director General’s Role: The Director General of Postal Services, appointed to head India Post, will have regulatory powers, including setting tariffs and regulating postage stamps.
    • Interception Powers: The government may intercept postal articles for reasons like state security, public order, and emergency, among others.
    • Liability Exemptions: India Post is exempted from liability regarding its services, with specific liabilities to be prescribed through Rules.
    • No Specified Offences and Penalties: The Bill does not define specific offences and penalties related to postal services, following the removal of all offences under the 1898 Act by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023.

    Key Issues and Analysis

    • Procedural Safeguards for Interception: The Bill lacks procedural safeguards for intercepting postal articles, potentially infringing on freedom of speech and privacy rights.
    • ‘Emergency’ as a Ground for Interception: The inclusion of ’emergency’ as a ground for interception may exceed reasonable constitutional restrictions.
    • Conflict of Interest in Liability: The central government’s role in prescribing liabilities for India Post could lead to a conflict of interest, as it also administers India Post.
    • Absence of Offences and Penalties: The lack of defined consequences for unauthorized actions by postal officers, such as opening postal articles, raises concerns for consumer privacy.

    Comparative Analysis with Other Services

    • Differences with Private Courier Services: The Bill maintains distinct regulatory frameworks for public and private postal services, notably in interception provisions and consumer protection applicability.
    • Railway Claims Tribunal as a Contrast: Unlike the postal services, the Railway Claims Tribunal Act provides a clear mechanism for addressing grievances against the Indian Railways.

    Concerns and Recommendations

    • Need for Clarity and Safeguards: The Bill should ideally include clear procedural safeguards for interception and specify consequences for violations by postal officers to protect individual rights.
    • Balancing Consumer Protection: Ensuring adequate consumer protection rights for India Post’s services is crucial, potentially through an independent mechanism similar to the Railway Claims Tribunal.
    • Addressing Privacy and Security: The Bill should balance the need for security with the protection of individual privacy, particularly in the context of postal article interception and officer conduct.

    Conclusion

    • The Post Office Bill, 2023, represents a significant overhaul of India’s postal service regulation, aiming to modernize and adapt to contemporary needs.
    • However, it raises several critical issues, particularly concerning individual rights and the need for clear regulatory frameworks.
    • Addressing these concerns is essential to ensure that the Bill effectively serves its purpose while safeguarding fundamental rights and consumer interests.

  • How to read the NCRB 2022 Report on Crime in India?

    Central Idea

    Background of NCRB Reports

    • Origin: The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) was established in January 1986 under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
    • Purpose: NCRB’s primary role is to compile and maintain national crime statistics, acting as a central repository for criminal data.
    • Scope: The reports encompass a wide range of criminal activities, including crimes against women, cybercrimes, economic offenses, and more.

    Data Compilation Process

    • Sources: Data is sourced from police forces of 36 states and Union Territories, and 53 cities with populations over 10 lakh as per the 2011 Census.
    • Validation: Information recorded at local police stations undergoes validation at district and state levels before final verification by the NCRB.

    Highlights from the 2022 NCRB Report

    • Overall Crimes: The report registered a total of 58,24,946 cognizable crimes, including 35,61,379 IPC crimes and 22,63,567 Special and Local Laws (SLL) crimes.
    • Crime Rate: A decline in crime rate from 445.9 in 2021 to 422.2 in 2022 per lakh population.
    • Crimes Against Women: There were 4,45,256 cases, marking a 4% increase from 2021.
    • Cyber Crimes: A significant increase of 24.4% from 2021, totaling 65,893 cases.
    • Suicides: An increase of 4.2% in suicides, totaling 1,70,924 cases in 2022.

    State-wise Data and Interpretation

    • Chargesheeting Rate: Highest in Kerala (96.0%), Puducherry (91.3%), and West Bengal (90.6%).
    • Interpretation: High chargesheet rates do not necessarily indicate higher crime rates but could reflect more efficient law enforcement.

    Challenges and Limitations of NCRB Data

    • Principal Offence Rule: This rule might lead to underreporting of certain types of crimes.
    • Data Accuracy: Local-level inefficiencies or gaps can affect the overall accuracy of the report.
    • Socio-Economic Factors: The report does not capture the deeper socio-economic reasons behind crimes.
    • Underreporting Issues: Fear of police response or societal stigma may lead to underreporting of crimes.

    Conclusion

    • Understanding the NCRB report requires recognizing its scope, methodology, and limitations.
    • While it provides crucial insights into crime trends in India, interpreting the data with an awareness of these factors is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the country’s crime dynamics.

  • A dark shadow on New Delhi’s credibility

    RAW had recruited three warlords in Afghanistan, says book

    Central idea 

    The article explores the credibility crisis faced by India in the realm of covert operations, focusing on recent legal challenges and a lack of trust with the U.S. The key themes include the impact on international relations, the dynamics of intelligence sharing, and the need for a balanced diplomatic approach to maintain India’s global image.

    Key Highlights:

    • Espionage and Covert Operations: Recent U.S. indictment against Nikhil Gupta for targeting Khalistani separatists in North America.
    • Credibility Challenges: Multiple legal challenges to Indian intelligence operations abroad, raising questions about New Delhi’s credibility.
    • Global Reach of Indian Security: Operations against Khalistani and Pakistani operatives in various countries, showcasing India’s security establishment’s capabilities.

    Key Challenges:

    • Credibility Crisis: Impact on New Delhi’s credibility in covert capacities and public messaging.
    • Trust Deficit: Lack of trust and information sharing between India and the U.S.
    • Diplomatic Balancing Act: Juggling international engagements and addressing concerns from western allies.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Covert Operations Dynamics: Espionage, intelligence, and covert operations.
    • Targeted Groups: Khalistani separatists, extradition, extra-judicial actions.
    • International Relations: Trust deficit, bilateral ties, Five Eyes intelligence partnership.

    Key Quotes/Statements:

    • “In the shadowy world of espionage, intelligence and covert operations, the only rule is to never get caught carrying out a mission.”
    • “Trust is still an issue.”
    • “India’s double standard in its international engagements.”

    Key Examples/References:

    • Legal Battles: Forcible return of UAE princess, Latifah, and the “attempted kidnap” of Mehul Choksi.
    • Convictions and Challenges: Conviction of Indian naval officers in Qatar for espionage.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • Alleged Operations: Involvement of Indian agencies in operations against Khalistani and Pakistani operatives globally.
    • Information Gaps: Lack of full information sharing between the U.S. and India regarding the alleged conspiracy.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Credibility Concerns: Questions raised about India’s credibility in covert operations and international engagements.
    • Trust Dynamics: Ongoing trust deficit between India and the U.S. impacting information sharing.
    • Image Management: Balancing India’s image globally, considering hard and soft power approaches.

    Way Forward:

    • Transparent Investigations: Address credibility concerns through thorough and transparent investigations.
    • Enhanced Information Sharing: Strengthen trust and information-sharing mechanisms with international partners.
    • Adaptive Diplomacy: Evaluate and adjust India’s approach to covert operations to align with international norms.
    • Diplomatic Outreach: Enhance diplomatic efforts to manage relationships with western allies and neighbors.

  • Places in news: Julian Felipe Reef

    Julian Felipe Reef

    Central Idea

    • The Philippines confirmed that more than 135 Chinese vessels made incursion on Julian Felipe Reef (also known as Whitsun Reef), a place off its coast.

    About Julian Felipe Reef

    • Julian Felipe Reef is part of the Spratly Islands, located in the West Philippine Sea, a portion of the South China Sea.
    • It lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
    • It is a large boomerang-shaped shallow coral reef.

    Recent Dispute

    • The reef gained international attention in early 2021 when a large number of Chinese vessels, described by the Philippines as maritime militia, were spotted at the reef.
    • It is subject to a territorial dispute involving several countries, primarily the Philippines, China, and Vietnam.
    • The Philippines claims the Reef as part of its territory, specifically within its 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone, under the UNCLOS.
    • This dispute is part of the larger and complex South China Sea territorial disputes involving various countries in the region.
    • The Philippines has sought international arbitration under UNCLOS to assert its claims.

  • Centre approves fourth phase roll-out of GIAN Scheme

    Central Idea

    • The Ministry of Education is preparing to restart the fourth phase of Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN) scheme.

    Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN)

    • The GIAN was initiated in 2015.
    • It is a project under the Ministry of Education.
    • Coordinating Body: IIT Kharagpur
    • Purpose: To harness the expertise of international scientists and entrepreneurs, fostering their involvement with Indian higher education institutions.
    • This initiative aims to enhance India’s academic resources, speed up quality improvements, and raise India’s scientific and technological standards to a globally competitive level.

    Key Components of GIAN

    • Foreign experts receive an honorarium to cover their travel and other expenses.
    • These international experts/faculties conduct short-term courses in Indian institutions.
    • Initially aimed at fostering India-USA collaborations, the program later expanded its reach.
    • Course durations vary, ranging from a minimum of one week to a maximum of three weeks.
    • Foreign experts can receive a total payment of up to US$ 8000 (~ ₹7 lakh) for 12 to 14 hours of teaching and up to US$ 12000 (~ ₹12 lakh) for 20 to 28 hours, covering their travel and honorarium.

  • Pratap Bhanu Mehta writes: How Henry Kissinger tricked the world

    In Vietnam, Henry Kissinger was worse than a fraud | The Hill

    Central idea

    Henry Kissinger’s enigmatic legacy, spanning 80 years, encapsulates both admiration and criticism, depicting him as a “miracle man” and a “confidence man.” His influence on post-World War II global affairs prompts reflection on the intricate dynamics of power and diplomacy, posing ethical questions about leadership.

    Key Highlights:

    • Henry Kissinger’s Impact: Henry Kissinger, a pivotal figure in post-World War II global affairs, has left an indelible mark, often hailed as a “miracle man” but critiqued as a “confidence man.”
    • Confidence Man Persona: Described as immensely talented and charming, Kissinger projected an aura of indispensability, successfully ingraining himself in the power structures globally for nearly 80 years.
    • Ambiguous Morality: The term “confidence man” encapsulates Kissinger’s ability to project charm while potentially having a morally hollow core, raising questions about the ethical dimensions of his actions.
    • Longevity and Influence: Despite controversies and criticisms, Kissinger’s influence endured, evident in his 100th birthday gala hosting the world’s elite and maintaining access to leaders like President Xi even in his later years.

    Key Challenges:

    • Moral Ambiguity: Kissinger’s approach to power and diplomacy raises ethical concerns, as he seemed more inclined towards realpolitik and a will to power than moral considerations.
    • Impact on Global Conflicts: The decisions and actions condoned by Kissinger, such as the delayed peace agreement in Vietnam and support for controversial military interventions, are linked to significant human suffering and casualties.

    Key Phrases:

    • Confidence Man: A term used to characterize Kissinger’s charismatic yet potentially morally questionable persona, emphasizing his knack for presenting himself as indispensable.
    • Will to Power: Kissinger’s approach to diplomacy is seen as a will to power, prioritizing the acquisition and maintenance of power as a measure of success.

    Key Quotes:

    • Eqbal Ahmad’s Assessment: “Kissinger was not a miracle man. He was a confidence man.”
    • Kissinger’s Perspective: “There are two kinds of realists: Those who manipulate facts and those who create them.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • Crimes and Controversies: Kissinger’s involvement in delaying the Vietnam Peace Agreement, bombing of Cambodia, ignorance of the East Pakistan genocide, and support for interventions like in East Timor and Argentina.
    • Greg Grandin’s Estimate: Historian Greg Grandin approximates around four million deaths attributable to Kissinger’s decisions.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Moral Objectivity: Kissinger’s approach challenges the conventional moral objectives associated with realism, portraying power as the ultimate measure of success.
    • Survival Mentality: The analysis suggests that Kissinger’s worldview was shaped by a fear of powerlessness, instilled by the European experience, driving him to prioritize power at any cost.

    Way Forward:

    • Reflection on Morality: Evaluating the moral implications of diplomatic actions, emphasizing a balance between realism and ethical considerations in global affairs.
    • Global Accountability: Reflecting on Kissinger’s legacy prompts a broader discussion on holding powerful figures accountable for decisions that impact millions of lives.

  • On Constitution Day, more people-friendly laws

    Simplifying the law for the citizens of India

    Central idea

    The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is actively simplifying legal language to promote “Access to Justice,” making legal texts more understandable for every citizen. This strategic initiative, aligned with constitutional principles, addresses historical ambiguities and leverages technology to enhance accessibility, contributing to global legal recognition and fostering a transformative journey toward inclusive justice.

    Key Highlights:

    • Legal Language Simplification: The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is undertaking a mission to simplify legal language, aligning with the vision of “Access to Justice” and aiming to make legal texts more accessible to the common citizen.
    • Constitutional Principle: The initiative reflects the constitutional principle that legal language should be understandable to every citizen, emphasizing the importance of ensuring citizens comprehend their rights and responsibilities.
    • Correction of Ambiguities: The government is addressing historical ambiguities in legal language, such as those in Sections 213 and 214 of the IPC, to enhance legal precision and effective enforcement, eliminating potential loopholes.
    • Global Recognition: The government’s commitment to simplifying legal language has gained international recognition, positioning India as a forward-thinking adopter of progressive measures for legal accessibility.
    • Digital Transformation: The simplification efforts align with the Digital India campaign, leveraging technology to enhance accessibility, with online platforms and digital resources making legal information more readily available.

    Key Challenges:

    • Historical Complexities: Addressing historical intricacies in legal language poses a challenge, requiring thorough examination and correction of ambiguities that have persisted over time.
    • Public Engagement: While seeking public input in the simplification process is a positive step, ensuring effective public engagement and capturing diverse perspectives can be challenging.

    Key Phrases:

    • Access to Justice: The overarching vision guiding the simplification initiative, aiming to remove barriers of legal complexity that hinder the common citizen’s understanding of legal texts.
    • Legal Empowerment: The goal of simplification extends beyond language, aiming to empower citizens with legal knowledge, fostering a sense of legal empowerment among the diverse population.

    Key Quotes:

    • “We must see that the constitution is not only passed by the Constituent Assembly but that it is also worked by the common people of the country.” – B R Ambedkar
    • “The government envisions a legal landscape where language is not a barrier but a bridge to justice.”

    Critical Analysis:

    • The reduction in legal disputes due to misunderstandings and misinterpretations underscores the positive impact of the simplification initiatives in fostering a clearer legal framework.

    Way Forward:

    • Continue the integration of plain language drafting principles into legal education to nurture a generation of legal professionals capable of navigating legal intricacies with clarity and precision.
    • Sustain efforts to engage the public in the simplification process, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered for comprehensive legal accessibility.
    • Monitor and evaluate the impact of simplification on reducing legal disputes and enhancing India’s global economic competitiveness.
    • Explore additional measures, such as comprehensive glossaries in multiple languages, to further enhance the understanding of legal language among citizens.

  • Improving the capability of the Indian state

     

    Yes, prime minister

    Central Idea:

    The Indian state faces a paradox of being too burdensome in bureaucracy yet too small in terms of personnel. The focus should shift from the size of the state to addressing issues of perverse incentives, skill gaps, and institutional constraints for effective governance.

    Key Highlights:

    • Bureaucratic Challenges: Setting up businesses or homes in urban areas in India involves navigating a complex web of licenses, permits, and clearances, reflecting the bureaucratic thicket that hinders efficiency.
    • State Size Discrepancy: While India has a relatively small number of civil servants per capita and a lower public sector share in employment, it struggles with challenges in providing essential services and infrastructure.
    • Perverse Incentives: The root cause of governance inefficiency lies in perverse incentives within public institutions, hindering policymakers and officials from making and implementing effective policies.
    • Need for Delegation: Lessons from countries like Australia and Malaysia suggest that separating policymaking and implementation responsibilities expedites execution and encourages innovations, improving program outcomes.
    • Technocratic Gap: The lack of technocratic skills at the policymaking level results in substantial outsourcing to consultancy firms, revealing a gap that needs to be addressed for effective governance.

    Key Challenges:

    • Technocratic Skill Deficiency: The Indian bureaucratic system lacks technocratic skills, leading to significant outsourcing of crucial tasks to consultancy firms, highlighting a need for internal capability building.
    • Policy Failures: Both proponents and critics of a larger state miss the fundamental issue of perverse incentives and skill gaps, contributing to policy failures across various sectors.

    Key Phrases:

    • People-Thin, Process-Thick State: Describes the Indian state as lacking in personnel but burdened with complex processes, emphasizing the need for a shift in focus from size to efficiency.
    • Perverse Incentives: Highlights the negative motivations within public institutions that hinder sound policymaking and implementation.

    Key Quotes for good marks:

    • “The main problem, however, is the perverse incentives created by public institutions and the skill gap among officials.”
    • “Both sides to the debate are missing something fundamental.”

    Anecdotes:

    • National Highways Authority of India: The example of the NHAI, where policymaking and execution are separated, showcases the effectiveness of delegation in reducing delays and cost overruns.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Audits and Oversight: The focus on compliance over policy objectives due to narrowly scoped audits by oversight agencies hampers effective decision-making, causing delays and disputes.

    Way Forward:

    Implementing institutional reforms, such as separating policymaking and implementation, enhancing technocratic skills, and sensitizing oversight agencies to contextual policy decisions, can improve state capability.