Context:
The 5T initiative in Odisha is a governance model that stands for Teamwork, Transparency, Technology, Time, and Transformation, launched with the aim of improving governance and ensuring efficient delivery of public services.
Relevance:
GS II: Government policies and Interventions
Dimensions of the Article:
- 5T Initiative Overview
- Mo Sarkar Initiative
- Agenda for Implementing Niti Aayog-like Bodies in States
- Need for Setting up NITI Aayog-like Bodies in States
5T Initiative Overview:
Teamwork:
- Emphasizes inter-departmental collaboration within the government for effective problem-solving.
- Promotes cooperation and coordination among different government agencies.
Transparency:
- Focuses on enhancing the openness and accountability of government processes and decisions.
- Aims to provide easier public access to information and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
- Encourages ethical and accountable behavior within the government.
Technology:
- Advocates the adoption of modern technology and digital solutions to streamline government operations.
- Aims to improve service delivery and operational efficiency.
Time:
- Highlights the importance of delivering government services promptly and reducing delays.
Transformation:
- Seeks to revolutionize the functioning of government departments.
- Aims to create a government that is more responsive, citizen-centered, and results-driven.
Achievements of the 5T Initiative:
- As of March 2023, 6,872 high schools have been transformed under the 5T initiative.
- Private schools had 1,605,000 students in the 2019-20 academic year, but this number decreased to 1,462,000 in 2021-22. This suggests an increase in the enrollment of students in government schools.
Mo Sarkar Initiative:
- A governance program focused on transforming government service delivery and enhancing transparency and accountability.
- “Mo Sarkar” translates to “My Government” in the local language.
- Features real-time feedback mechanisms allowing citizens who interact with government offices to provide feedback.
- Citizen phone numbers are made available to top officials, including the Chief Minister, to facilitate feedback.
- Aims to shift power from bureaucracy to citizens, making governance more evidence-based, efficient, and equitable.
Agenda for Implementing Niti Aayog-like Bodies in States:
- NITI Aayog will assist states in setting up similar bodies to replace planning boards, with the goal of achieving faster and more inclusive economic growth and becoming a developed nation by 2047.
- The plan initially targets 8-10 states to establish such bodies before reaching out to all states by March 2023.
- States like Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam have already initiated work in this direction, while Maharashtra, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat are expected to follow suit.
- NITI Aayog will support the creation of teams to examine existing state planning board structures.
- The formation of State Institutions for Transformation (SITs) will be conceptualized over the next 4-6 months.
- Lateral entry of professionals will be encouraged in SITs to undertake high-quality analytical work and provide policy recommendations.
- SITs will assist in policy formulation, policy and program evaluation, and suggest improved technology or delivery models.
Need for Setting up NITI Aayog-like Bodies in States:
- States are the drivers of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to the national GDP.
- Many critical areas like health, education, and skilling fall under state governments’ purview.
- State governments play a crucial role in improving ease of doing business, land reforms, infrastructure development, credit flow, and urbanization.
- Most state planning departments or boards have become nonfunctional and lack clarity regarding their roles and responsibilities.
- The move is essential for the economic growth and development of states and the country as a whole.
-Source: The Hindu
