Civil Services Prep

In contemporary development models, decision-making and problem-solving responsibilities are not located close to the source of information and execution defeating the objectives of development. Critically evaluate.

Model answer

Development works best when decision-makers understand local needs and answer for execution. A top-down approach places design with higher authorities; a bottom-up approach builds decisions from community needs and feedback. Subsidiarity means decisions should be taken at the lowest level that can handle them well. The approaches differ as follows: Excessive top-down control can defeat development in several ways: **Local needs are missed:** Uniform schemes may ignore geography, occupations and social relations. Communities know local water sources and vulnerable families. **Decisions become slow:** Higher approvals delay repairs, procurement and local responses. **Accountability becomes unclear:** Higher authorities blame execution, while local bodies cite inadequate powers and funds. **People lose ownership:** Gram Sabhas let communities select priorities and monitor works. Imposed decisions may create unsuitable assets. **Local innovation is restricted:** Kerala’s People’s Plan, Kudumbashree and MGNREGA social audits show the value of local planning and monitoring.

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