As per reports, the Department of Administrative Reforms &Public Grievances is hiring consultant to introduce reforms in bureaucracy. I am per se opposed to the idea. Especially so, when the recommendations of the second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC-2) remain unimplemented since January 2007. As a result, the bureaucracy remains inefficient, laid-back resulting in poor public grievances redressal mechanism. We remember the veterans for pro-activism, high ethical standards and the ability to stand up for their beliefs. Not any longer. Reasons :Flawed selection criteria and not following good administrative practices. The policy-makers may revisit their decision of hiring private consultant and consider following suggestions, among others.
(a) The bureaucratic structure is top-heavy, multi-layered and unwieldy. The bureaucratic cholesterol clogs the wheel of decision-making. Rightsizing bureaucracy by chopping off the deadwood is absolutely necessary. This is not being done;
(b) Introduce accountability, transparency and delegation of authority;
(c )Out-sourcing non-sensitive jobs to contractual appointees to speed up public services delivery mechanism, as against creating additional posts as permanent liability,
(d)The post-retirement placements should be banned. No extension or re-employment beyond superannuation. Exceptions could be made, in special circumstances with approval of the Cabinet committee on Appointments headed by the Prime Minister.
(e)The above suggestions, if implemented, will merely provide band-aid to reform bureaucracy. Reforms in the recruitment process are also needed. Going forward, for attracting the best talent through the civil services, examinations, the eligibility age limits should be pegged between 21 and 24 years. Further, the total number of attempts for appearing in the examinations should not exceed three (as in the past). Suitable relaxations should be provided to help the deprived sections. Also, there should be a minimum qualifying standard prescribed by the UPSC for the personality tests (interviews).This will make the assessment holistic.
A K Saxena (Former civil servant)

The relevance of study of International Relations is felt, in general, in fields such as policy analysts and journalism in this increasingly globalized society. In particular, for a career in diplomacy, the relevance of study of international relations cannot be undermined and hence basic graduate or postgraduate level study of international relations should be made mandatory for an even more successful diplomatic manoeuvre.
Like in the case of a career in any of the other elite Services, such as Indian Economic Service (IES) or Indian Statistical Service (ISS) a candidate has to possess a postgraduate degree in Economics or Applied Economics or Econometrics or Business Economics. For pursuing a career in Indian Engineering Service (IES) a candidate is required to have an Engineering Degree to appear in IES as also clear specific examination conducted by Institution of Engineers. Similarly, for a career in Indian Forest Service (IFS), a degree in agriculture, forestry or engineering is essential.
On similar lines, the qualification required compulsorily for a career in diplomacy viz., the Indian Foreign Service, should be a minimum degree or post graduate study in international relations as the study embodies a critical perspective and has broad areas of focus that enable one to go deeper into the field of diplomacy as also provide a comprehensive understanding of global politics. Without a thorough knowledge of the ongoing global political events the gap that might arise during the course of one’s diplomatic career owing to lack of knowledge of international affairs, can prove detrimental.
Moreover, there are several other reasons which makes the study of international relations highly relevant for diplomacy. In today's interconnected world, events and developments in one part of the globe can have significant repercussions elsewhere. Understanding international relations helps diplomats comprehend global dynamics, identify opportunities, and navigate challenges. Secondly, knowledge of international relations is crucial for navigating the complex web of economic relationships. As the nation continues to integrate into the global economy, diplomats need to understand trade policies, economic alliances, and global economic trends to promote our economic interests. Issues such as terrorism, cyber threats, and regional conflicts have a global dimension. A solid understanding of international relations is essential for diplomats to engage with other nations in addressing security challenges, formulating joint strategies, and promoting regional stability.
Diplomacy often involves negotiations and dialogue. A comprehensive understanding of international relations equips diplomats with the skills to negotiate effectively, build alliances, and represent nation's interests on the global stage. Then there is the soft power projection such as cultural diplomacy, vaccine diplomacy, educational exchange programs, and promoting Indian arts and culture which are all integral components of soft power. An understanding of international relations helps in leveraging soft power to enhance India's image and influence globally. India actively participates in various international organizations such as the United Nations, BRICS, G20, and others. Each and every diplomat is equally required to navigate these multilateral forums effectively, understanding the intricacies of international relations to advocate for our position and contribute to global governance.
Issues such as climate change, pandemics, and environmental concerns need to be urgently addressed and can only be resolved with a collective approach and as such require international cooperation. Indian diplomats, armed with knowledge in international relations, can engage in collaborative efforts to address global challenges that transcend national borders.
Understanding the dynamics of South Asian and neighbouring regions is crucial for India's foreign policy. Knowledge of International Relations helps Indian diplomats navigate regional complexities, foster cooperation, and address conflicts effectively. With the increasing role of technology in shaping international relations, diplomats need to engage in technology and innovation diplomacy. This involves managing issues related to cybersecurity, digital trade, and emerging technologies, which have global implications. The study of international relations provides insights into human rights issues and international law. Diplomats well versed with international relations can engage in discussions on these topics, advocate for human rights, and contribute to the development and adherence to international legal frameworks.
In summary, the study of international relations is rather absolutely essential for a successful career in diplomacy as it provides the necessary tools and insights to navigate the complex, interconnected global landscape and advance nation's interests on the world stage. It is high time, selection process for a career in diplomacy is pruned and segregated with a separate examination pattern, if possible, based on a thorough study of international relations, just on the lines of selecting candidates for Indian Economic Service, Indian Statistical Service, Indian Engineering Service, Indian Forest Service, etc.
Subbiah Sridhar

Happy birthday to Dalai Lama! Wish you a happy and healthy long life, to steer the Tibetan society through such testing times. Remember Marana Pratap and Mahatma Gandhi. Between those two heroes lives Buddhism, inspiring millions for more than 2500 years! Communism is already dead in lesser than two decades your age. However, like all religions, reforms are overdue in Buddhism globally. It is not the religion of the weak. But it must be proved. One Indian under the influence of Buddhism from his birthplace has already proved it in our own times. Religion is not for the hungry, starving or ailing. So, means of livelihood must be provided. The fingers producing goods and services are the first targets for the proselytisers, whether religious or political. I would like to quote two poetic gems: “bhooke bhajan na hoi Gopala, ye lo apni kanthimala” and, Rahiman paani rakhiyo binu paani sab soon, paani gaye na ubre moti manus choon”.
M L Gupta

Let us pause and ponder about the Emergency, illegally clamped in 1975 without the consent of competent authority. Post emergency, the recorded statements of individuals revealed that even the union cabinet was not taken into confidence before declaring the emergency. It was autocracy all the way.
Put honestly, as a fledgling civil servant, I would shudder to recall and re-live the horrors of that draconian phase. The civil servants must be held accountable for the atrocities committed during the period. The gutless bureaucrats, when asked to bend, chose to prostrate before the political class to demonstrate their proximity to the power that be. They were largely responsible for misleading the political supremo surrounded by the coterie of power-seeking,extra-constitutional authorities. The emergency gaslighted the civil servants with impunity. The bureaucrats behaved like excellent subordinates but bad advisors.
There was no freedom of press with authoritarianism galore. People talked in hushed tones fearing detentions or arrests.
The fundamental rights were suspended without approval of the competent authority.Hundreds of people including the government employees, private persons, journalists and politicians and so on, started disappearing suddenly. They either went underground or were taken into custody on slightest suspicions with no clue about their well being.
Fortunately, the self-assumed power of the political Executive for unilaterally imposing internal emergency,was subsequently withdrawn by the newly elected successor dispensation by carrying out appropriate,deterrent legislative measures.
A K Saxena ( Former civil servant)

While, commemorating the 50th anniversary of Emergency, some politicians have trained their guns on the 42nd Amendment for inserting the term “secular” in the Preamble of the Constitution. This has raised an unsavoury controversy. It is noteworthy that even the Supreme court in its landmark judgement in the Kesavananda Bharti case (1973) preceding the amendment ,upheld the view that secularism is the basic structure of the Constitution. The court found no rationale in deleting the demand for its exclusion. Secularism is not a mere word but an article of faith in the manner we proudly define nationalism and inclusive democracy. Let us stay united with all co-existing faiths and set the on-going controversy at rest.
A K Saxena ( Former civil servant)