PM Narendra Modi’s reliance on retired bureaucrats to run his government can be attributed to several strategic and practical reasons:
1. Experience and Expertise
Retired bureaucrats bring decades of administrative experience, institutional knowledge, and policy expertise. They have firsthand knowledge of how the government machinery works, making them valuable assets in implementing Modi’s vision efficiently.
2. Trust and Loyalty
Modi prefers individuals who align with his governance style and ideology. Retired bureaucrats, especially those who have worked closely with him, are seen as more dependable than political appointees or fresh entrants.
3. Bypassing Political Interference
Bureaucrats are trained to follow a structured, rule-based approach rather than engaging in political maneuvering. By appointing them, Modi ensures that governance remains focused on execution rather than being driven by political lobbying.
4. Faster Decision-Making
Unlike elected politicians who often debate and negotiate policies for political gains, bureaucrats are more implementation-focused. Modi’s governance style favors quick, decisive action, which aligns well with bureaucratic efficiency.
5. Technocratic Approach
Modi’s government emphasizes a data-driven and technocratic style of administration. Many retired bureaucrats have a deep understanding of policy frameworks, economic planning, and governance reforms, making them ideal for advisory or ministerial roles.
6. Parallel Power Structure
By appointing retired bureaucrats in key roles (like advisors, consultants, or even ministers), Modi has created a governance model that minimizes the influence of traditional political elites and maximizes control over policy execution.
7. Institutional Memory
Retired bureaucrats provide continuity and institutional memory, ensuring that long-term government projects and reforms are not disrupted by political transitions.
8. Precedent Set by Other Leaders
This is not unique to Modi—several past governments, both in India and globally, have relied on retired bureaucrats for key advisory roles. However, Modi has amplified this trend significantly.
Key Examples of Retired Bureaucrats in Modi’s Government:
- Ajit Doval – National Security Advisor (former IPS officer)
- Nripendra Misra – Former Principal Secretary to PM (ex-IAS)
- PK Mishra – Principal Secretary to PM (ex-IAS)
- Rajiv Gauba – Cabinet Secretary (ex-IAS)
This trend reflects Modi’s preference for efficiency, control, and an alternative power structure that bypasses traditional political constraints.
By BHARAT GLOBAL TIME
