Intragovernmental Relations | Public Administration Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Introduction

Intragovernmental/intergovernmental relations play a crucial role in ensuring effective governance by establishing productive relationships within and between various government agencies and departments. Given the complexities of contemporary issues, the government operates on the principle of specialization, with specialized and non-specialized organizations serving specific domains. However, the potential for conflicting decision-making within and among departments necessitates the establishment of mechanisms that foster unity and coordination. This article explores the recommendations made to achieve coherence and collaboration within different government departments and agencies.

Specialization and the Need for Collaboration

• Contemporary complexities require the government to operate based on specialization, with various departments focusing on specific domains to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.
• Specialized and non-specialized organizations are established to ensure focused operations and improved outcomes in governance.

Challenges of Conflicting Decision-Making

• In the absence of effective collaboration, departments may make conflicting decisions within their respective domains, hindering the achievement of shared goals.
• Collaboration and coordination are necessary to harness the expertise of specialized departments and leverage their skills effectively.

Recommendations for Achieving Coherence

• The Gorwala committee has recommended that the Ministry of Finance relinquish its rigid control over administrative ministries and adopt a collaborative approach, acting as a colleague ministry to facilitate work.
• The first Administrative Reforms Commission proposed the appointment of an Integrated Financial Advisor to bridge the gap between the Ministry of Finance and various administrative ministries. This advisor would ensure the efficient and timely disposition of proposals from the ministries by the Ministry of Finance.

Committees of Secretaries

• Various committees of Secretaries, appointed by the Union Cabinet Secretary, serve as crucial platforms for managing intragovernmental relations.
• These committees facilitate decision-making, coordination, and consensus-building among related ministries and departments.

Mechanisms for Coordination

• The Group of Ministers (GoM) and Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) are effective mechanisms for achieving coordination within interdependent ministries.
• The GoM serves as a forum where ministers from related departments gain consensus on decisions and take swift action.
• The EGoM operates with delegated powers from the Union Cabinet and independently decides policy matters at the ministerial/departmental level.

Conclusion

Intragovernmental/intergovernmental relations are vital for effective governance. Collaboration within and between government agencies and departments enhances coherence, coordination, and efficiency in decision-making and policy implementation. The recommendations, such as adopting a collaborative approach in the Ministry of Finance, appointing Integrated Financial Advisors, and utilizing committees of Secretaries, provide avenues for achieving necessary coordination and unity. By leveraging specialized skills and working together, the government can address contemporary challenges and deliver better outcomes for the public.