“Citizen-centric governance is essential for restoring public trust in administration.” Analyse.

Overview

The rights, demands, and expectations of the populace are given precedence over bureaucratic convenience under citizen-centric administration. In an era of increasing public awareness and complex governance requirements, such a tactic is crucial for restoring trust.

Citizen-Centric Governance Principles

Its pillars are responsibility, involvement, responsiveness, transparency, and accessibility. Denhardt’s New Public Service, which puts serving residents ahead of directing them, is in line with these concepts. Digital governance, social audits, RTI, and grievance redressal procedures promote transparency and empower citizens.

Institutional Frameworks That Promote Citizen Centricity

E-governance solutions including UMANG, CPGRAMS, DigiLocker, and JAM Trinity ensure faster service delivery. Citizen charters encourage timeliness and service clarity. Participatory budgeting, decentralization under the 73rd and 74th amendments, and community involvement through Gram Sabhas all enhance local accountability.

Obstacles

Administrative inertia, the digital divide, low awareness, understaffing, procedural delays, and over-centralization all threaten the citizen-centric approach. Inadequate grievance redressal and a lack of social responsibility further impede the development of trust.

UPSC General Studies Paper Preparation

Public Administration Optional Exam Preparation