Book review
Improving governance is the reform we need. But how is reform to be brought about when every proposal - whether it be electoral reform or getting the Government out of running hotels - has to be put through the same winding, interminable loops?

How is the system to be overhauled when the decision to reform it, and the wherewithal to carry through that decision lie in the hands of the very ones who benefit from arrangements as they are at present? Can the structures be "reformed" at all?

Or does what was done with Industrial Licensing, with import and export controls, does what Arun Shourie strove to ensure in the telecom sector, show the way? That is, wherever possible, to jettison the function?

With a wealth of primary material, Shourie argues that the only way ahead is to revolutionize the nature of the Indian State - ' from the principal "Engine of Growth" it was taken to be in the '50s and '60s, from "The Great Monitor" it became in the '70s and '80s, to an enabling State, a State that clears the way so that others may do their best for the country.

A leaner State, but one that performs those fewer, and indispensable functions better. A rare glimpse into what has become of governance.

About the author Mr. Arun Shourie, a Rajya Sabha member and among India's best known commentators on current and political affairs. His writings are backed by rigorous analysis and meticulous research. He has been an economist with the World Bank, a consultant in the planning commision and the editor of Indian Express. Among the many honours and awards, he has received the Magsaysay Award, the International Editor of the Year, the Dadabhai Naoroji and the Astor Award.