Indian government cuts down on US lobbying to lowest in 7 years

Image Source

Note4students

Mains Paper 2: Governnance | Development processes and the development industry the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders

The following things are important from UPSC perspective:

 Prelims level: Not much

Mains level: Lobbying

News

• The Indian government has slashed its expenses towards lobbying in the US with a total payment of USD 120,000 to its registered lobbyist firm in the second quarter of 2017 — the first cut in nearly seven years.
• The disclosure has been made by BGR Government Affairs, which lobbied on behalf of Republic of India on issues relating to “bilateral US-India relations.

Back2basics

Lobbying

1. Lobbying is a communication process used by members of a pressure group for persuasion.
2. Lobbying is used to influence governmental policy process.
3. It also acts as an instrument that links citizens and decision-makers.
4. Lobbying takes place when a few members of pressure groups loiter in the corridors of power with a view to securing an opportunity to interact with legislators and to influence the decisions of the policy makers.

Pros

1. They use a democratic process.
2. Check the power of majorities.
3. They have the ability to motivate legislators.
4. Allow for better representation of interests.
5. Provide positive solutions.
6. They serve as an avenue for political involvement.
7. Ensure an outspread dispersal of expenses

Cons

1. They would often seek for the minority of people.
2. They only have one track in mind.
3. They are only effective for themselves.
4. They would commit serious crimes
5. They lead to “hyperpluralism.”