Will the division of a large state to several smaller states enable better administration or development of regions in question? Perhaps, the solution lies in decentralization of administrative functions, rather than the division of a state. But decentralization in itself would not deliver the desired results. Equitable and balanced regional development could be achieved through the combination of DGPP - Decentralization, Good Governance, and Public Private Partnerships. A small administrative region could be a handicap if the same is not backed by good governance or is characterized with political instability. Good governance is crucial for removing the bottlenecks in development and ensuring planned development of villages, towns and cities in the respective regions. Again, decentralization should be complemented with Public Private Partnerships at the district level to achieve the desired development goals, address employment issues, improve surface transport facilities, deliver better health service and meet the growing needs of power for domestic and industrial use. A new state or administrative decentralization will not serve any purpose if it fails to deliver good governance, improve basic amenities, create employment opportunities and stem migration.
India stands at crossroads on the 63rd Republic Day. The young demographic profile and buoyant economy provide opportunities for further growth. At the same time, there are challenges in the form of poverty, malnutrition, corruption and over-crowded cities. Two decades after the economic reforms, India stands chance of another transformation. The immense potential of the North-eastern states remains untapped. Tourism, promotion of handicrafts, tapping the hydropower potential, and improvement in surface, rail and air transport can help propel the development of the North-eastern region. The public health infrastructure needs an overhaul. Basic amenities remain a distant reality for most of the households of rural India. Better infrastructure could open opportunities to transform rural India into sustainable development zones. 2-tier and 3-tier cities can propel India's economic growth. Proper town and city planning is crucial to facilitate development while retaining the peace an...