BUREAUCRACY IN ACTION

The dynamics of public administration calls for fast and adaptive responses to challenges and problems faced by civil servants in dealing with day-to-day and long-term administrative issues. Post partition, the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) has provided a firm foundation for all-round development in the country. This anthology presents myriad experiences, encounters, initiatives, innovations and successes of eminent IAS officers who have left an imprint on the administrative system. It is full of reflections and musings that are steeped in profound administrative wisdom. It will serve as a reference and research material for those who seek to explore, analyse and learn from the nuances of administrative action.

The book is divided into three parts: the first devoted to ‘unforgettables’ events, episodes and kernels of experiences; the second dedicated to ‘cherishables’, i.e., veterans and stalwarts among administrators whose rich memories are worth sharing with the present and future generations of civil servants; and the third part includes recollections of their interface with the Chief Ministers with whom they came in close contact.

The contributions made in this book exemplify the nature of law and order and other related problems faced by civil servants and some of these may serve as bases for case studies for the training of probationers in training academies and institutes. Finally, the knowledge, experience and appreciation of unforgettable events and cherishable personalities may also open up avenues for further administrative reforms in the country. Senior citizens, enlightened opinion makers and knowledge seekers of administrative experience will find this volume an interesting read.

I.C. Srivastava, IAS (Rtd.), has held various important positions in the Government of Rajasthan such as Chairman, Board of Revenue and Chairman, Rajasthan Mines and Minerals Limited. He has authored several books and is associated with various social activities. He is President, Transparency International, Rajasthan Chapter and has been the Chairman, Indian Institute of Public Administration, Rajasthan Regional Branch.

B.D. Joshi, IAS (Rtd.), is former Chairman, Rajasthan State Text Book Board and Special Secretary (Education), Government of Rajasthan. Besides, he also served as Collector and District Magistrate in various districts. He has written several books on physical and psychological health and on problems of social change.