Q. Why did you decide to write a book on citizen centric good governance?

In our constitutional democracy, the concept and premise of ‘citizen centric good governance’ is ingrained within the scheme of our Constitution. While we have made many strides of progress and growth since our independence, we still have many goals to achieve. I am also a passion driven socio-political activist and have been involved with various causes associated with good governance in our state. I felt that I must pen down my views on citizen centric good governance to articulate my perspective of pragmatic, effective and sensitive administrative and governance module which is committed to the triumph of ‘inclusive growth’ and ‘deliberative democracy’.

Q. Can you tell us the aspects which you have touched through the chapters in your book?

The book has nine chapters. Through the book I have sought to espouse the essence, importance and sanctity of democratic institutions, processes and ideals. I have stressed on the guiding principles as enshrined in our constitutional framework for any elected setup at the helm at the centre and the State. I have also stressed on the role of citizenry in our democratic polity. I have also attempted to highlight that we need to crystallise a holistic policy approach through systemic processes and procedures to meet the aspirations of our citizens in the myriad spheres of public administration. Besides this I have tried to highlight the need to evolve a sensitive and all inclusive systemic approach which is not person centric but a procedure centric one which minimises exercise of flimsy discretion and which delivers the deliverables with accountability and transparency.

Q. Why should every citizen know about the constitution and good governance?

The role of the citizenry in a democracy must be a continued pursuit of engagement in the tryst of realising the India of our dreams. The citizens are bestowed with rights as well as are bound to duties by our constitution. The citizenry through active participation will contribute towards a better deliberative module of democracy which will undoubtedly help in realising common goals and public good. Hence it is very important for all our citizens to continuously stand up for good governance and only then will we realise our goals of common public good.

Q. How relevant is your book in today’s times?

We are passing though critical times in the journey of nation building. We must realise that strengthening democratic institutions and working towards the realisation of inclusive growth are the imperatives. We have witnessed and as such are witnessing certain disturbing trends in the sphere of politics with some constituents resorting to flaring of passions and undermining democratic institutions, systems and processes. This is a matter of grave concern. This book highlights these issues while strongly articulating the need to strengthen democracy at all levels. It also suggests certain measures and areas of reforms for better governance and administration.

Q. Why did you write the book in Konkani?

I thought that through this book I could reach out to everyone in Goa and the common ‘goenkar’ on the issue of citizen centric good governance and the need to espouse it. Konkani is my mother tongue and I am proud of this rich language. Hence I have made this attempt to write this book in Konkani.

Q. So would it be right to say that through this book you seek to make people aware of the goals of our constitutional democracy?

Our Constitution which is a detailed and lengthiest one amongst the world constitutions seeks to lay down the ideals and goals in its scope. We citizens must though continuous and untiring efforts contribute in our little respective ways in this noble task of nation building. Our elected dispensations at the helm whether in the state or at the centre too needs to be held accountable at all levels and periodically. Hence undoubtedly this book seeks to recollect to the people our guiding principles which have been carved out in our constitution. I hope this book will spread some awareness too among the people of their indispensable roles as envisaged by our founding fathers and the architects of our liberty.