Notes For All Chapters – Political Science Class 12
Contemporary India: Good Governance
1. What is Good Governance?
- Governance means managing public affairs by involving both government and non-government actors.
- Good Governance focuses on making the system citizen-friendly, transparent, responsive, and accountable.
- It’s more than just the government—it includes NGOs, private companies, and civil society.
2. Why the Need for Good Governance?
- Due to globalization, tech revolution, and international pressure, public administration had to change.
- Citizens today expect better, faster services.
- Traditional systems were slow, full of delays and corruption. Reforms were needed.
3. Values of Good Governance
| Value | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Participation | Citizens take part in decision-making. |
| Rule of Law | Everyone is equal before the law. |
| Transparency | Clear, open government actions. |
| Responsiveness | Quick and timely action by government. |
| Consensus Oriented | All sections work together for common goals. |
| Equity & Inclusiveness | No one should feel left out. |
| Effectiveness & Efficiency | Use resources wisely and deliver results. |
| Accountability | Govt. and officials answerable for actions. |
4. Reforms & Initiatives in India
Key Initiatives:
- Lokpal & Lokayukta Act (2013):
- For fighting corruption.
- Lokpal at national level, Lokayukta at state level.
- Inspired by Sweden’s Ombudsman system.
- Citizens’ Charter (1996):
- Declares what services govt. offices provide, and in how much time.
- Example: Passport in X days, Birth Certificate in Y days.
- E-Governance:
- Use of technology for faster, transparent service.
- Ex: Online services like Aadhar, PAN, Driving Licence, etc.
- Right to Information Act (2005):
- Citizens can ask for any govt. information.
- Promotes transparency and reduces corruption.
- Citizen Participation:
- People actively involved in governance.
- Focus is on bottom-up approach (public voices matter).
5. Six Pillars of e-Governance (Maharashtra)
- 1. Policy/Legal Framework
- 2. Capacity Building of Staff
- 3. Funding Mechanism
- 4. Institutional Framework
- 5. Core e-Governance Infrastructure (Data centers, etc.)
- 6. Common Projects (e-Office, e-Tendering)
6. Institutions Protecting Citizens’ Rights
| Commission | Purpose |
|---|---|
| National Commission for SCs/STs | Protect rights of Dalits and Tribals. |
| National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) | Safeguard human rights. |
| National Commission for Women (NCW) | Protect and promote women’s rights. |
| National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) | Safeguards child rights. |
| National Commission for Minorities (NCM) | Protect rights of minority religions. |
| National Commission for Backward Classes | Welfare of socially & economically backward groups. |
| National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) | Solves consumer complaints. |
Leave a Reply