Foreign Minister Jaishankar releases book edited by Vinod Rai

Dr S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister released a book edited by Vinod Rai titled : "Transforming the Steel Frame: Promise and Paradox of Civil Service Reform." The book is a very incisive analysis of the challenges that modern day senior administrators face. It is unique as the editor has brought together an amalgam of former IAS officers who had held constitutional appointments, corporate leaders such as S Ramadorai, Kiran Mazumdar, Naina Kidwai etc for an unbiased insight and most appropriate suggestions for reform.

The contributors have stressed on the need for a collaborative and participative approach from the administration. They point out the need for a responsive administration which has a compassionate view towards citizen welfare. The need for transparency and accountability has been highlighted by all. 

The editor has underlined the critical role of the permanent civil service and the edifice of ethical governance it should be founded on. Rai repeatedly emphasis the 'service' oriented approach that modern day administrators need to adopt and the fine distinction between a corporate career and public service. He explains how sustainable economic development has to be premised on good and ethical governance. 

On the whole it is very comprehensive amalgamations of ideas. A good read with dispersed opinions from within and outside the government.