Rationalization of centrally sponsored schemes

The number of centrally sponsored schemes has been trimmed by 2013 from 173 to 170. The humongous number of these schemes has many raised eyebrows in recent times. The umber has proliferated at a rapid pace in the past five years. While in 2007-08 they numbered 99, in 2011-12 their number proliferated to 147. Another 26 scheme that qualify for central assistance took this number to 173.

In light of issues like federalism and politicization of schemes, it would make sense to trim and rationalize these schemes. A much smaller number can serve the purpose just as well if the following points are taken into account:

• The schemes should be intelligently designed and restructured to better align scheme objectives and outcomes.
• A move to give states greater flexibility in administering the schemes should begin.
• Focus on appropriate targeting of funds, as well as restricting the center’s overreach in taking political ownership of implementation in a way that inhibits the necessary partnership that big development schemes require.
• Schemes with small outlays should be implemented by states or merged with other schemes
• New Centrally sponsored schemes should be limited to flagship programmes for major development needs.
• Each new scheme needs to be appraised on its specific merits.
• Need to discourage politicization regarding implementation of Central schemes.
• Shifting the focus to how effectively a programme is being implemented and monitored.

If these and other steps are undertaken, it would not be difficult to reduce the number of schemes as well as restructure them for better outcomes.