Permanent Executive: Bureaucracy
- The Executive organ of the government comprises the Prime Minister, the Ministers, and a substantial organization known as the bureaucracy or administrative machinery.
- To distinguish it from the military service, this machinery is referred to as the civil service.
- Trained and skilled officers, who serve as permanent employees of the government, are tasked with assisting the Ministers in formulating and implementing policies.
Role of Bureaucracy
- In a democracy, the elected representatives and the Ministers hold the reins of government, with the administration under their control and supervision.
- Administrative officers are bound not to contravene the policies adopted by the legislature. It falls on the Ministers to uphold political control over the administration.
- India has instituted a professional administrative machinery that is politically accountable.
- The bureaucracy refrains from taking any political stance on policy matters.
System of Indian Bureaucracy
The system is enormously complex, encompassing the All-India services, State services, employees of local governments, and technical and managerial staff overseeing public sector undertakings.
- The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is tasked with recruiting civil servants which ensures impartial selection based on merit. Similar public service commissions are established for the States.
- Besides IAS and IPS officers appointed by the UPSC, State administration is managed by officers appointed through State Public Service Commissions.
- The Constitution mandates job reservations for Dalits and Adivasis, and subsequently for women and other backward classes.
- Members of the Public Service Commissions
- Appointed for fixed terms.
- Removed or suspended following a thorough inquiry conducted by a Supreme Court judge.
Issues of Indian Bureaucracy
- Insensitivity to ordinary citizens: Many individuals are reluctant to approach government officers due to fear or intimidation.
- The politicization of the bureaucracy has occurred, turning it into a tool for politicians.
- There are insufficient provisions to protect civil servants from political interference.
- Lack of accountability: There are inadequate measures in place to ensure the bureaucracy is accountable to citizens.
- Expectations exist that measures like the Right to Information may enhance bureaucratic responsiveness and accountability.
People Also View
Executive Class| Chapter 4 Class 11 Polity Notes
The Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary are the three organs of government. Together, they perform the functions of the government, maintain law and order, and look after the welfare of the people. In this article, we will look into the Chapter 4 Executive in detail.
Students can through this article for comprehensive notes on ‘Executive‘.
Executive Class| Chapter 4 Class 11 Polity Notes