ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNANCE FOR INCLUSIVE GROWTH

Transparent and accountable governance is a critical aspect of a well-functioning democracy. It is the foundation on which the trust of the citizens in the government is built. When governments are transparent, and their actions are held accountable, it results in the benefits of growth reaching all sections of society, especially those at the bottom of the pyramid. The LG’s Mulaqaat initiative is an excellent example of the government’s efforts to connect with citizens and address their grievances. By directly interacting with citizens who have submitted complaints on the JKIGRAMS portal, the Lieutenant Governor has shown his commitment to making sure that the government is responsive to the needs of the people. The actions taken by the Lieutenant Governor and his team in response to citizen complaints are a testament to their dedication to ensuring that the benefits of growth are distributed equitably across all sections of society. It is heartening to see that the Jammu and Kashmir government is taking steps to address environmental concerns raised by citizens. The directive to the Commissioner of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation to look into the issue of environment protection and sanitation at the foothills of Shankaracharya Top is a positive step towards ensuring that the UT’s natural resources are protected. The focus on waste management is also commendable, as it is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention.

The J&K government’s efforts to provide better healthcare facilities to citizens are also laudable. The prompt action taken by the government to arrange for a gynecologist specialist at CHC Bani is an example of the government’s commitment to providing better healthcare facilities to citizens, even in remote areas. The renovation and face-lifting work of the bathrooms of the District Maternity & Child care Hospital Sheerbagh, Anantnag, is another example of the government’s commitment to improving healthcare facilities. The government’s commitment to transparent and accountable governance is also evident in its efforts to promote the holistic development of agriculture and allied sectors. The training program being executed by the Agriculture Production Department for farmers in all 20 districts is a positive step towards promoting sustainable agriculture practices and ensuring that farmers are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to improve their yields and incomes. The government’s efforts to promote sustainable agriculture practices will not only benefit farmers but also contribute to the overall economic growth of the UT.

Overall, the Jammu and Kashmir government’s efforts toward transparent and accountable governance are commendable. The LG’s Mulaqaat initiative and the government’s focus on addressing citizen grievances, environmental concerns, and healthcare facilities, as well as promoting sustainable agriculture practices, are all positive steps towards ensuring that the benefits of growth reach all sections of society. While there is still much work to be done, the Jammu and Kashmir government’s commitment to transparent and accountable governance provides hope that the state will continue to move towards greater equity and inclusivity. Transparent and accountable governance promotes trust between the government and citizens. When citizens trust the government, they are more likely to participate in the democratic process, such as voting and engaging in civic activities. This trust also enables citizens to work collaboratively with the government to find solutions to problems that affect their lives. This also leads to efficient service delivery and reduced corruption. Investors are more likely to invest in a country where the government is transparent and accountable, and where they can trust that their investments will be protected. This, in turn, leads to job creation, increased economic opportunities, and improved standards of living. Moreover, when governments are transparent and accountable, they are more likely to follow the rule of law. This, in turn, promotes the development of a legal and regulatory environment that is conducive to economic growth and development. It all develops a sense of ownership and responsibility promotes social cohesion and makes it easier for citizens to work together to achieve common goals.

 At the same time, use of independent oversight bodies can be tasked with monitoring activities and holding the departments accountable for any wrongdoing. This can include bodies such as the ombudsman, anti-corruption agencies, and auditors. However, there is still a long way to go, and the government needs to focus on improving the quality of public service delivery, addressing environmental and health hazards, and strengthening accountability mechanisms. Only by working together, we can build a sustainable and inclusive society where every citizen has access to equal opportunities and enjoys the benefits of growth.

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