“Administrative reforms in India have focused more on structure than on behaviour.” Comment.

In India, administrative reform has historically involved departmental reorganization, authority delegation, and file digitization. However, structural improvements are not complete unless public officials’ perspectives are changed.

Analytical Dimensions: 

• While behavioral transformation received little attention, the first and second ARC placed a strong emphasis on procedural restructuring and simplification.
• Systems were enhanced by reforms like Citizen Charters and e-Office, but not empathy or motivation.
• The status quo, hierarchy, and obedience are still valued more highly in bureaucratic culture than innovation.

Obstacles

• Innovation is stifled by a deep-seated fear of accountability.
• Training programs neglect leadership and communication in favor of law and procedure.
• Attitude and public response are rarely measured in performance reviews.

Way Forward:

• Incorporate emotional intelligence and behavioral sciences into training.
• Promote mentoring, peer learning, and innovative appreciation.
• Align abilities, values, and outcomes by successfully implementing Mission Karmayogi.

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