In recent sessions of the Goa Legislative Assembly, the call for creating a new district within the state has intensified. Advocates of this proposal argue that it would lead to enhanced welfare and development outcomes, citing examples from across India where new districts have resulted in improved governance and more localized administration. They contend that new districts can enhance governance by allowing smaller administrative units to manage resources more efficiently, respond to citizens' needs more swiftly, and implement development programs more effectively. Indeed, newly formed districts in India have often seen improved public service delivery and better monitoring of projects.
However, the push for a new district raises several critical concerns.
1. Economic Burden:
Establishing a new district entails significant financial outlay, including the creation of new administrative offices, hiring additional staff, and developing necessary infrastructure. For a small state like Goa, which is already grappling with financial constraints, this could lead to increased debt. The cost of maintaining additional bureaucratic structures may outweigh the benefits of localized administration. As of March 2023, Goa's total outstanding debt stood at Rs 31,104 crore, according to the CAG report. Critics argue that relying on borrowing to fund infrastructure projects and other expenditures is unsustainable. Instead of generating revenue through robust economic activities, the state has increasingly resorted to loans, resulting in a substantial portion of the budget being allocated to servicing debt. This leaves less room for essential development projects and public services.
2. Inefficiencies in Governance:
The core issue in Goa's governance is not necessarily the size of its districts but rather the efficiency of its administrative machinery. The current system suffers from inefficiencies, including lethargy among government servants, lack of accountability, corruption, and a poor work culture. Merely creating a new district without addressing these fundamental issues will not yield the desired improvements in governance.
3. Poor Utilization of Funds:
Goa has a troubling track record in utilizing funds from centrally sponsored schemes. Initiatives such as Mission Vatsalya, Mission Shakti, Sarva Siksha Abhiyan, and others often suffer from unspent funds and a lack of innovation. The state should prioritize improving its existing fund utilization patterns rather than creating new administrative units. Effective and transparent implementation of these programs, along with innovative planning and departmental convergence, should take precedence. South Goa panchayats have expressed frustration over delays in submitting district development plans, highlighting that inefficient planning and fund utilization hinder grassroots development. Inconsistencies and delays in Goa's outline development plans further underscore the need for better governance practices instead of more administrative divisions.
4. Delays in Development Plans:
Even 23 years after the formation of the district planning committee (DPC), South Goa has yet to develop an integrated development plan. These delays suggest that creating a new district might lead to further bureaucratic red tape and political interference. Reports indicate that district development plans often get delayed due to political entanglements, with significant lags in submission and implementation. Moreover, the committees responsible for these plans frequently lack professionals from academic and development fields, which hampers the quality and effectiveness of the plans. This glaring inefficiency should be a source of shame for the administration, which now touts the benefits of creating a new district without having adequately managed the existing ones.
Governance System Overhaul: A Prerequisite for Development
The demand for a new district in Goa should be viewed within the broader context of the state's governance and development framework. Rather than focusing on administrative reorganization, the state should prioritize the following measures:
1. Governance Reforms:
Implementing governance reforms is essential for improving efficiency, accountability, and transparency. This includes addressing corruption, lethargy, and lack of accountability among government servants. Introducing punctuality and a KPI-based performance appraisal system can incentivize better performance and professionalism. Fostering a culture of professionalism and integrity requires changing mindsets and practices. Leaders should lead by example, promoting a work culture that values dedication and ethical standards, thereby building public trust and motivating public servants to perform effectively.
2. Effective Utilization of Funds:
Enhancing spending patterns for centrally sponsored schemes and state programs is crucial for effective fund use. Regular audits and public disclosure of expenditures promote transparency and prevent corruption, thereby building public trust. Adopting technology-driven solutions can streamline processes and improve accountability.
3. Empowering Local Bodies:
Empowering local bodies, such as village panchayats, to develop and execute their own plans is vital for grassroots development. Capacity building through tailored training programs can enhance administrative skills. Collaboration with academic institutions and development organizations can provide necessary support. Engaging communities in the planning process fosters ownership and responsibility, resulting in more effective and lasting development.
4. Involving Experts in Development Plans:
Including professionals from academia and development fields in district development committees can significantly improve plan quality and effectiveness. Engaging universities introduces fresh perspectives and fosters research-driven policies, bridging theory and practice. These experts can help identify and prioritize needs, ensuring efficient resource allocation through thorough assessments and impact evaluations.
5. Political Will and Stability:
Political will and stability are crucial for effectively implementing development plans. The state government should focus on long-term goals, prioritizing good governance principles. Leaders must commit to transparency, accountability, and efficiency, demonstrating genuine concern for the state's welfare. A stable political environment supports sustainable development and progress. Consistent support for citizen-focused policies reflects strong political will, and leaders should work across party lines to prevent political agendas from hindering development.
Conclusion
Goa, the smallest state in India, doesn’t need more administrative divisions; it needs a governance overhaul. Proposing a new district is akin to building an extension on a house that has been neglected for decades. While it may provide some temporary relief, it will not address the underlying issues. Instead of creating new districts, let’s focus on fixing the real problems: governance reforms, effective fund utilization, empowering local bodies, involving experts, and ensuring political stability. Real development isn’t about superficial changes; it’s about impactful, need-based programs that genuinely improve lives. Every rupee must be well spent.
(Peter F. Borges is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at the D.D. Kosambi School of Social Sciences and Behavioural Studies, Goa University)