Essentials of Good Governance

Good Governance may not be easy to define, yet it must be admitted that it is more about governance and less about government. The most popular quote related to this is of Thoreau that Government is best that governs the least. The present Indian Government also talks about the same philosophy – Minimum government, Maximum governance. In management theory also the recommended style is to avoid close supervision. Eminent champions from Jefferson, to Emerson to O’Sullivan have all proclaimed less government as good governance. What is good governance? Harper Lee in her famous book, To kill a Mocking Bird says through one of its leading characters – “Equal rights to all, special privileges to none.” But these notwithstanding, let us accept that it is not easy to attain. Nevertheless, good governance is what the populace desires. It is the desideratum on which fates of governments are tested. The UPA government that was in power for two terms was decimated on this very count – good governance. Is there, then a formula for good governance. Not easy to state but our most revered mythological text Ramayana offers some clues on good governance. Given the fact that Ram Rajya is the bench mark of good governance it is worthwhile to recapitulate the golden words of wisdom from Valmiki Ramayana.
The second chapter, the Ayodhya Kanda, offers comprehensive lessons on good governance. Bharata, the younger brother of Rama, goes to meet the latter in the forest to request him to return to Ayodhya and rule. Rama declines and counsels Bharata on governance. From quality of ministers and the importance of strategy sessions, to temperance in administration to justice, he expounds on all the subtleties of statecraft in a lucid manner. Though Rama seems to be inquiring Bharata of his well-being and whether all is well at Ayodhya, he in fact is offering lessons on effective governance. The dialogue between the two brothers runs into several pages but some important lessons are obvious, particularly the ones given on pages 441-449 of the Valmiki Ramayana.
Emphasizing on quality of ministers. Rama asks Bharata whether he has appointed courageous, knowledgeable, strong-willed men with a high emotional quotient as his ministers, because quality advice is the key to effective governance. The emphasis is on competence and confidentiality. Rama’s advice to Bharata is to take a decision on a complex issue neither unilaterally nor in consultation with too many people. There should be an efficient core group.
Rama tells Bharata to prefer one wise man to a thousand fools as it is the wise who can ensure prosperity during an economic crisis. Even if there is one minister who is really effective, the king will gain immensely. Appointing tested men of noble lineage and integrity for strategic positions is the key to successful government. Moderate taxes should be levied on the people, lest they revolt. Rama wants Bharata to treat his soldiers well and pay their legitimate wages on time.
Protecting the forests and maintaining livestock have also been dealt with as important aspects of effective governance. In fact, the vision of the Ramayana has eternal relevance. Law and justice, finance and business, corruption, injustice to the poor are all mentioned. Rama’s advice to Bharata are as relevant today as they were in the Treta period.