Q.18 Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organisations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen. Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Public service delivery refers to the mechanisms and processes through which government services are provided to the public. Civil society and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play a crucial role in offering an alternative model of public service delivery, aiming to benefit the common citizen by filling gaps left by the state.

Body

Civil society and NGOs provide an alternative model of public service delivery in several ways:

1. Acting as Pressure Groups: They advocate for policy changes and hold the government accountable. For instance, the Right to Information (RTI) Act in India was largely driven by civil society activism.
2. Providing Last Mile Connectivity: NGOs often reach remote and marginalised communities where government services are inadequate. For example, the Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA) in India empowers women in rural areas by providing microfinance and vocational training.
3. Innovative Solutions: NGOs often pilot innovative solutions to social problems. The Barefoot College in Rajasthan trains rural women to become solar engineers, addressing both energy access and gender empowerment.

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However, this alternative model faces several challenges:

1. Lack of Accountability: Unlike government bodies, NGOs may not always be subject to stringent oversight, leading to issues of transparency and accountability.
2. Limited Resources: NGOs often operate with limited financial and human resources, which can constrain their ability to scale up successful initiatives.
3. Dependence on External Funding: Many NGOs rely on international donors, which can lead to a mismatch between donor priorities and local needs.
4. Regulatory Hurdles: In some cases, government regulations can be restrictive. For instance, the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) in India has been criticised for limiting the ability of NGOs to receive foreign funds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, civil society and NGOs are indispensable in providing an alternative model of public service delivery. Success stories like SEWA's women's empowerment initiatives and the environmental protection efforts by the Chipko Movement highlight their potential. However, addressing challenges such as accountability, resource limitations, and regulatory hurdles is essential to enhance their effectiveness in serving the common citizen.

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