NGO, civil society participation mooted

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and civil society members may soon become a part of the civil service functioning, if the Central and state governments agree on implementing a human resources management strategy recommended by the department of administrative reforms and public grievances (DARPG).

As part of its next stage of administrative reforms against the backdrop of recent agitations against corruption, including that of social activist Anna Hazare, the DARPG has proposed the involvement of NGOs and civil society in policy making and their implementation. The strategy and action plan, outlined during a two-day conference of chief secretaries of states and union territories last week, includes adoption of the UK concept of Big Society Reforms. The Big Society refers to the NGO and civil society’s involvement in the process of governance and allowing them to frame suitable policies and their delivery. The department has recommended lateral entry to the civil service from outside the government and allowing civil servants to move out for a short period and come back again to contribute to the government.

It has stressed on the need to ensure that the best person, either from within or outside the system, is appointed for a specific position, especially in the senior civil service.

This would allow people, both from inside and outside the government, to develop the requisite skills and competencies and compete for any position. It has suggested identification of fast streamers and their grooming by way of learning and development opportunities and on-job experience on lines of the UK model. It has also pitched in for a continuous performance appraisal cycle, which should include agreement on objectives and competencies required and identification of development and coaching need.

A system of accreditation — to be acquired in the first 20 years of service in key identified areas, including finance, human resources, policy and planning — is also part of the plan.

Civil servants would have to acquire a minimum of three accreditation certificates in two key areas at least. Their career progression would be limited to these two areas.

The Central government has already made several changes in the functioning of ministries and departments, including performance-based transfers and posting of officials.

As part of this exercise, rules were notified on January 31, under which the Central government in consultation with states concerned can ask a civil service official to retire in public interest after 15 years of service.

Those who cross this barrier will have to face another review after either completing 25 years of service or attainment of 50 years of age.