Includes Index

The World Bank defines governance as "the manner in which power is exercised in the management of a country's economic and social resources for development." Better governance is crucial for translating the large development and welfare expenditure of public authorities into enduring outcomes for the people. While there is a general appreciation that development programs have the right objectives, their implementation on the ground is poor. Implementation of programs can be improved through a multi-faceted approach relying on professionalization of public service delivery, total quality management (TQM), and innovative use of digital and other technologies which improve monitoring and supervision. It can also be improved through: greater emphasis on social mobilisation and capacity building; strengthening of local institutions; and building deeper partnerships with civil society organisations and the community to determine the needs and aspirations of the people. The present volume contains 11 articles, authored by experts in the field of public policy, that provide deep insights into various aspects of governance in India in the context of socio-economic development. [Subject: Public Policy, India Studies, Socio-Economic Development