Public Policy – The Blog /blog Official Blog of 91̽ Mon, 15 Jan 2024 09:09:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 /blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/jgu-150x150.png Public Policy – The Blog /blog 32 32 Public Policy in India – History, Present & Future /blog/2024/01/15/public-policy-in-india-history-present-future/ Mon, 15 Jan 2024 09:09:07 +0000 /blog/?p=3056 Continue Reading]]> Meaning & Definitions 

Public policy is the overall framework that guides the actions and decisions of government entities, institutions, and officials. It refers to the set of principles and guidelines that governments follow to address social, economic, and political issues.

In other words, public policy is concerned with how governments respond to societal problems and needs. The study of public policy involves analyzing the processes by which policies are created, implemented, and evaluated. It examines the role of various actors, such as government agencies, interest groups, and civil society organizations, in shaping public policy. 

History & Evolution of Indian Public Policy

India has a long history of public policy dating back to ancient times. The Arthashastra, written by Chanakya in the 4th century BCE, is considered one of the earliest texts on public policy. 

During British colonial rule, the Indian government was heavily influenced by Western ideas and models of governance. The British introduced laws and regulations that were designed to promote their own interests rather than those of the Indian people.

After independence in 1947, India adopted a democratic system of government based on the principles of secularism, socialism, and federalism.

In the early years of independent India, public policy focused primarily on nation-building and promoting rapid industrialization.

Over time, public policy in India has evolved to address emerging challenges and opportunities. More recently, initiatives like Digital India and Make in India reflect the country’s growing ambition to become a digital and manufacturing powerhouse.

The evolution of public policy in India has been influenced by various factors, such as the legacy of colonialism, the diversity and complexity of Indian society, the aspirations and expectations of the people. The public policy topics in India have been varied and dynamic, ranging from the core issues of nation-building, development, and security. The public policy making in India has been characterized by a mix of continuity and change, consensus and conflict, centralization and decentralization, and participation and exclusion. 

Nature & Features of Indian Public Policy

Public policy in India is characterized by a number of features that shape its nature and direction.  

Firstly, Indian public policy is deeply rooted in the country’s constitution, which provides a framework for policymaking and ensures that policies are aligned with the principles of democracy, equality, and justice.

Secondly, Indian public policy is highly diverse, reflecting the country’s cultural, linguistic, and regional diversity. 

Thirdly, Indian public policy is heavily influenced by social movements and activism. Social movements have played a crucial role in shaping public policy in areas such as land rights, gender rights, and environmental protection. 

Process of Public Policy Formation in India

The process of public policy formation in India involves several stages, from problem identification to policy implementation.

The first step is to identify a problem or issue that requires policy intervention. This is often done through research, data analysis, and consultations with stakeholders. 

Once a problem has been identified, policymakers begin to develop alternatives and evaluate their feasibility and effectiveness. After a policy has been developed, it is presented to the relevant decision-making body, such as the Parliament or the Cabinet, for approval. 

Once approved, the policy is implemented through various government agencies, departments, and programs. 

Social Movements and Public Policy in India

Social movements have played a significant role in shaping public policy in India, particularly in areas such as land rights, gender rights, and environmental protection. These movements have brought attention to important issues and pushed for policy changes that benefit marginalized communities and advance social justice. 

For example, the Chipko movement, which began in the 1970s, fought against deforestation and the exploitation of natural resources. The movement successfully lobbied for policy changes that protected the rights of forest dwellers and promoted sustainable forest management. 

Who Makes Public Policy in India? 

Public policy in India is made by a variety of actors, including the government, civil society organizations, and private sector companies. The Government of India, including the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministries, and Departments, plays a central role in policymaking. Public Policy and Administration in India Public policy and administration in India are closely linked, as effective policy implementation depends on sound administrative systems. 

The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) plays a vital role in policy implementation, providing technical expertise and coordination across different government departments. Governance and Public Policy in India Good governance is essential for effective public policy implementation. In India, governance structures, including the judiciary, the bureaucracy, and local governments, play a critical role in translating policies into action. 

Scope of Public Policy in India

Public policy in India encompasses a wide range of issues and areas that affect the lives of citizens. It includes policies and regulations that govern various sectors such as education, health, agriculture, industry, environment, and transportation, among others. The public policy scope in India is vast and varied, covering everything from economic policies that promote growth and development to social policies that aim to protect the rights and welfare of vulnerable populations. 

One of the key components of public policy in India is the involvement of various stakeholders, including the government, civil society organizations, media, and private sector entities. These stakeholders play a crucial role in shaping public policy, whether it is through advocacy, research, or actual policy implementation. 

For instance, public policy think tanks in India, such as the Centre for Civil Society and the Observer Research Foundation, provide valuable research and analysis that helps inform policy decisions. Similarly, when talking about how do social movements influence public policy in India? Social movements in India, such as the Right to Information movement and the Anti-Corruption movement, have played a significant role in shaping public policy and holding policymakers accountable.

Models of Public Policy in India

India has a complex system of government, with a federal structure that divides powers between the central government and the states. This complexity is reflected in the various models of public policy that exist in the country. 

One of the most prevalent models is the top-down approach, where policies are designed and implemented by the central government without much input from lower levels of government or civil society.

Another model of public policy in India is the bottom-up approach, which involves greater participation from local governments and communities. This model is seen as more inclusive and responsive to local needs, but it can also be slower and less efficient due to the lack of centralized authority.

A third model, known as the collaborative model, involves partnerships between government, civil society, and the private sector to design and implement policies. 

Importance and Impact of Public Policy in India

Public policy in India has a profound impact on the lives of citizens, shaping everything from economic opportunities to social norms. Good public policy can lead to positive outcomes such as reduced poverty, improved health outcomes, and increased access to education. 

One of the most significant impacts of public policy in India is on the country’s economic growth and development. Policies such as liberalization and privatization have led to rapid economic expansion, creating new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. 

Conclusion

Public policy in India plays a critical role in shaping the country’s future, impacting the lives of millions of citizens. From economic policies that promote growth and development to social policies that seek to protect the rights and welfare of vulnerable populations, public policy has far-reaching consequences.

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“JSGP helped me follow my dreams to pave a trajectory for knowing my inner calling in life,” shares Riddhi Sharma, Student, JGU /blog/2022/08/04/jsgp-helped-me-follow-my-dreams-to-pave-a-trajectory-for-knowing-my-inner-calling-in-life-shares-riddhi-sharma-student-jgu/ Thu, 04 Aug 2022 12:29:20 +0000 /blog/?p=2870 Continue Reading]]> Meet Riddhi Sharma, Student, M.A. Public Policy, Batch of 2022, Jindal School of Government and Public Policy.

Born and raised in Delhi, Riddhi has always found it interesting to serve the public while accumulating holistic knowledge. After exploring multiple avenues, she says “when I came to know about Jindal School of Government and Public Policy, I was so elated to reach out to the seniors of this course and then talk to the admissions committee. I also went to through students’ reviews and feedback on various platforms. I was thrilled to know that most of the reviews shared by alumni and current year students were really inspiring and convincing. Without any further thought, I decided to reach out to the university for admissions and found the entire process to be student-friendly.” 

“During the first year of college, we were exposed to many subjects such as Introduction to Public Policy, Law and Public Policy, Macro and Microeconomics, Statistics, Academic Writing and others. I loved studying all these subjects. I truly understand the zeal of my faculty members who enthused a sense of learning in me. During the third year, I chose the elective Applied Econometrics I & II which was taught by Prof. (Dr.) Krishanu Karmakar, who beautifully brought out the dimension of linking public policy and data analysis by engaging in such effective sessions,” shares Riddhi

Talking about the faculty and pedagogy of JSGP, she mentions that “all the faculty members have research experience. It was through these real-life experiences that my classes at JGU were made even more interesting and engaging. I truly feel I had the best Professors for all the subjects that MAPP offers in JSGP.”

“My interest in the field of quantitative and qualitative research methods has escalated in the past few years which triggered me to transform the society in some way or the other. My current dissertation’s research question: “What is the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) about Risk Factors, Signs & Symptoms, Early Detection Methods related to breast cancer among women in New Delhi; and what explains the variance in it?” is ideated to inform policies and practices aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality caused by breast cancer,” shares Riddhi while talking about her interests.

Riddhi further goes in detail “In India, 1 in 28 women is at risk of developing breast cancer; with one case reported every 4 minutes. The survival rates of breast cancer in India are low because the detection takes place late. Linking this evidence-based data with a quantitative study that uses STATAv.14.1® as a business analytical tool for data analysis and a convenient sampling as a research method with appropriate statistical techniques like regression analysis are used. This milestone of an academic career has been one of the most intense yet most cheerful experiences of my life. My research has been conducted in the year 2022 (present) with the approval of the Research and Ethics Review Board of O P Jindal Global University under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Vivek U Padvetnaya. I would like to express my gratitude to my esteemed supervisor and mentor, Dr. Vivek U Padvetnaya, for his invaluable supervision, support and tutelage during the course of this research, without whom this study would not have been possible. His consistent presence and guidance have added so much value to my work and have enabled me to tap into the depth and rigour of carrying out the research. I feel deeply grateful to him.”

“I am glad that JSGP helped me follow my dreams to pave a trajectory for knowing my inner calling in life,” concludes Riddhi.

We wish Riddhi the best for her future endeavours!

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“On a quest to find a Global institution rooted in interdisciplinary studies, I found JGU” Shares Sumalatha KC, Student, JSIA /blog/2022/08/02/on-a-quest-to-find-a-global-institution-rooted-in-interdisciplinary-studies-i-found-jgu-shares-sumalatha-kc-student-jsia/ Tue, 02 Aug 2022 05:24:08 +0000 /blog/?p=2863 Continue Reading]]> Meet Sumalatha K.C, Student, M.A. Diplomacy, Law, and Business, Batch of 2022, Jindal School of International Affairs (JSIA).

Sumalatha has previously worked as a business analyst. She has always been interested in international affairs and sustainability and that’s what drew her to pursue her Master’s degree programme at India’s No.1 Private University – JGU.

Her quest for a ‘Global University’ began when she found out about JGU through her peers. Upon this, she began her research and resonated with JGU’s world reknown faculty, international collaborations, research institutes and Institution of Imminence status. Sumalatha’s journey at #JGU began in the COVID19 pandemic and although most of her classes went ‘online’, she still enjoyed every bit of it. Her core support during the degree has been the #JSIA faculty members who not only helped her with classes but also motivated her to participate in extracurricular activities to ensure her holistic development.

Writing and Research are the key skills where Sumalatha finds her calling the most and this is something that she nurtured at #JGU. “My mentors including Prof. (Dr.) Pankaj Jha and Prof. (Dr.) Ricki Levi have been a huge support in my efforts. They have always motivated me to give my best and inspired me to win the National Level Field Marshal Manekshaw essay competition and National conference on Sustainability Research paper, respectively,” shares Sumalatha.

Holding a deep interest in learning, the multi-disciplinarity fostered at JGU has aided in Sumalatha’s goals. She believes that inquisitiveness is what drives her to break out of boundaries and explore new opportunities. A key factor in developing her interest in sustainability was her love for nature, which is also a source of inspiration for her.

Talking about her favourite JGU moments Sumalatha concludes “Being selected for the Best Student JSIA ambassador award, meeting like-minded people, and the friendly teaching environment are some of my most cherished memories here at JGU”.

She is currently associated with the Ministry of Housing- PMAY-U Program, under the Government of Tamil Nadu.

We wish Sumalatha the best for her journey ahead!

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“JGU: A universe of perspectives, ideologies, people and culture,” shares Nirvik Sen, Student, JSGP /blog/2022/08/01/jgu-a-universe-of-perspectives-ideologies-people-and-culture-shares-nirvik-sen-student-jsgp/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 07:20:38 +0000 /blog/?p=2859 Continue Reading]]> Meet Nirvik Sen, Student, B.A.(Hons.) Economics, Batch of 2022, Jindal School of Government and Public Polic (JSGP), 91̽ (JGU).

Nirvik is a sanguine soul, who loves animals and has volunteered a significant portion of his time for the JGU Animal Welfare Society. Also a part of the Sports Society, he has been on the University Tennis Team. While on the academic front, he was the Chairman of the Student Academic Committee (JSGP), a teaching assistant, and a research assistant!

Upon being asked ‘Why JGU?’, Nirvik responds “Post High-school, I was looking for programmes that allowed me to learn and experiment beyond the field of Economics. My B.A. Economics (Hons.) programme was designed in a way that economics was taught through the lens of public policy. Additionally, it gave me the flexibility to venture into niche fields such as finance, psychology, and programming.”

Describing his JGU experience, he adds “I have been fortunate and grateful to have a truly holistic experience at JGU. From being part of multiple cultural events such as pottery workshops to playing tennis for the university team to spending hours in the reading room with my classmates to being a teaching assistant and interacting with my fellow juniors, I’ve had the pleasure to experience it all! Moreover, JSGP has provided a strong foundation for me, in the concepts and principles of Economics and Policy, this helped develop my interests in areas of research and academia that were earlier dormant.”

Nirvik has always wanted to pursue his Master’s degree from a top university in the world and he believes that JGU through its different initiatives has shaped his career and personality.”The guidance and one-on-one interaction with faculty along with the international exposure, have helped me prepare in the most optimal way. From picking the right course, to figuring out skillsets, to finding my ideal programme, it’s all thanks to JSGP. The JSGP administration in particular, has helped me with all my formal documentation and even accelerated my graduation to ensure I commence my next academic session at my future university on time.”

Reflecting fondly on his treasured memories, Nirvik talks about a hot summer afternoon that turned pleasant in the 2022 spring semester, he recollects “I was with two of my close friends, Devna & Khushi, as the afternoon turned breezy and cool. As we sat down to appreciate the weather, we came across a couple of adorable puppies frolicking and playing around. For the next hour or so we shared this magical moment with the puppies where we played with them and cuddled. There was just pure love and joy in the air!”

He concludes, that this is what he adores about JGU – “Within these boundaries of a few hundred acres, there is a universe of perspectives, ideologies, people and culture to explore! The diversity and flexibility to explore each avenue of academia in the field of social sciences is truly astounding.”

Nirvik is currently pursuing his Masters in Applied Economics at the National University of Singapore.

We wish him the best for his upcoming endeavours!

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MA in Economics: Improve your employability prospects /blog/2022/07/25/ma-in-economics-improve-your-employability-prospects/ Mon, 25 Jul 2022 09:32:29 +0000 /blog/?p=2848 Continue Reading]]> If you pay heed, you will notice that one thing that is being discussed more than ever is the ‘economy’. It is being consecutively discussed, especially after being thwacked by the COVID-19 pandemic and its bewildering financial impacts. We have heard about it on television prime-time shows, in newspapers, in digital video stories, and nowadays, even on WhatsApp groups. However, it is way more than just economic news. Holistically, it dictates almost everything: employability, purchasing stocks and cryptocurrencies, inflation and deflation, production, flows of capital and individuals, and accessibility of goods and resources. 

Almost every sector today seeks to acquire the highest magnitude of economic growth. However, while traversing multiple aspects of the economy, one thing is visible. What is this? That there’s a long way to go. That these Indian sectors will take years of perseverance, commitment, gusto and endurance to reach sky-scraping growth. And for this change, India needs an excellent bunch of economic experts with transferable, team building and technical skills.

This is where a Master’s in Economics comes in. It is a two-year full-time programme that covers topics such as economic theories and laws, the history of economics, global economic policies, econometrics, macroeconomics, microeconomics, etc. And to your surprise, MA in Economics is one of the most-preferred courses today among Indian youth.

Okay. But what after that?

Today there is a mad rush to secure the most lucrative jobs, especially in business management. However, the high competition sometimes confuses young aspirants about where they should apply and how the job will benefit them. Moreover, the madness to obtain these job opportunities has surged the number of applicants, creating more confusion about whom to hire. So, ponder over what exactly you want to do. MA in Economics scope is extensive. You can prepare for higher-level exams, apply at your favourite MNC, work for charitable organizations, work with the government, build your business, etc.

Here’s a short prototype for those who want to prepare for government exams. “Those preparing for the Indian Economic Service (IES), jobs at the RBI, or specialist officers in economics for the banks need to have a grip on the latest syllabus being taught at good institutes,” says a Times of India report.

Right course at the right university

The MA in Economics – a two-year intensive course – at the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) has been created to impart young economists with a sharp understanding of traditional and non-traditional paradigms in this discipline. It creatively integrates orthodox and heterodox methods, offering students practical applications to resolve today’s economic-related problems.

The postgraduate course also ingrains students with the right knowledge and skills in demand in today’s competitive and unpredictable market. Once students are through the course, they can apply in multiple industries like public policy firms, consultancy organizations, non-profits, and government agencies at national, state, and local levels.

Unique aspects of MA in Economics at Jindal School of Government and Public Policy:

●      Students will acquire a magnificent understanding of traditional paradigms and will be able to use them to solve real problems in the professional world.

●      The MA Economics syllabus has been designed keeping the global perspective in mind. It will be taught by research-driven, internationally-qualified teachers and industry experts.

●      One of the key advantages of the postgraduate programme is that students get the option to write a research thesis under their supervisor.

●      Students will gain valuable insights into the discipline from 91̽’s research-oriented milieu and on-campus research centres.

●      They will build management, business, entrepreneurship, communication, and leadership skills.

●      They will attain the right knowledge and skills to excel in distinctive roles and functions.

We live in a world where policies, business rules, and, most importantly, trends are changing like a switch. All of this is quite visible through media reports and social media tools. In such a situation, regularly updating is a must, especially in your study area. The Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) understands this critical change well. It also understands that today’s students are highly innovative and curious and will not settle for less. Hence, it has partnered with international universities and policy think tanks to offer these students more comprehensive and versatile exposure to problems and solutions from a global perspective. Some famous collaborators are Julius Maximilians Universitat Wurzburg, Germany, University Of California, Berkeley, USA, Afghanistan Public Policy Research Organization (APRRO), Comillas Pontificia Universidad, Spain, to name a few.

Credible universities always have something extra for students. It does not just reshape their minds theoretically and practically. It also cares about a student’s future. It cares about a student’s dream. Also, applying for a placement drive as part of your post graduation offers you “the double whammy” of working in the professional space. It can soar your employability and reinforce you to enter the lucrative job market. The Jindal School of Government and Public Policy has associated with some of the leading recruiting firms that will offer excellent job opportunities to young economists. These firms are UNDP, WHO, NITI Aayog, Centre for Policy Research, PRATHAM, Teach for India, Observer Research Foundation, CUTS-Jaipur Public Policy Division, Centre for Public Policy Research, Centre for Budget and Government Accountability and much more.

Nourish skills and knowledge

If the nitty-gritty of economics, math, and business management is something that excites you, MA in Economics is your go-to course. The postgraduate course will help you derive solutions to complex issues. It will give you a broader picture to scrutinize and extrapolate data and make estimations based on the latest trends. You will also be able to gather evidence and detailed insights based on your research. Not just that. You will also be able to understand society and social behaviour. And, the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy is the right educational space to do this. Your chance to delve deeper into the economy is here. Do not miss it. 

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“Education at JGU is highly engaging and learnings are collaborative in nature,” shares Shivangani Misra, Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) /blog/2022/07/19/education-at-jgu-is-highly-engaging-and-learnings-are-collaborative-in-nature-shares-shivangani-misra-jindal-school-of-government-and-public-policy-jsgp/ Tue, 19 Jul 2022 07:53:17 +0000 /blog/?p=2828 Continue Reading]]> Meet Shivangani Misra, a recent graduate of Masters in Public Policy (MAPP) from Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) of the 91̽.

“I did my under-graduation in mass media with a specialization in journalism. After working as a news producer and researcher in business news channels for nearly 4 years, I decided to shift to a more research-oriented career. Hence, public policy was a perfect fit for my goals,” shares Shivangani as she talks about her decision to pursue a masters degree in Public Policy.

“Initially, I was a little sceptical about taking admission during the COVID-19 year, i.e., 2020. I was worried about stunted course learnings and career prospects as a good chunk of my Masters would be spent online. As it turned out, I spent 3 semesters out of 4 locked up in my room. Nevertheless, I have no regrets as I still had a great learning experience. Seeing the wealth of knowledge and real-life experience the faculty brought to each class helped me overcome my hesitation. Most of the professors have worked or are still working with Indian think tanks like the Centre for Policy Research or international organisations like the UN which helps brings nuance to their teaching. Their networks and past connections within the sector also prove useful to students in securing an internship or job at these respected firms,” says Shivangani while sharing about her online learning experience during the COVID19 pandemic.

Shivangani joined the programme 2 months late, but the professors ably guided her through the study material and were always available for any questions. Even though the lectures were online, the teaching was highly engaging and the learning collaborative. Group presentations in many courses helped her befriend many of my classmates who otherwise would have remained strangers in this online learning format.

“I particularly enjoyed working on presentations for the Gender and Development, and Law and Public Policy course as it required each group member to present a different angle of the issue selected in the most in-depth yet concise manner. This helped me hone my presentation and analytical communication skills required in every job. The subsequent semesters consisted of courses like Macroeconomics for Public Policy, Political Philosophy and Democratic Governance which gave us a deeper understanding of the interrelationships among individuals, government, and public policy. On the other hand, subjects like Qualitative Research Methodology, Academic Writing, Program Design and Evaluation provided us with more practical skills like conducting a survey, evaluating a programme, and writing all of this in an academic style. What I appreciated the most about MAPP is the wide array of electives we could choose from different Jindal schools. Being from a media background, I was overjoyed to pick the Media and Law elective from the law school as it helped me understand privacy and free speech issues better,” shares Shivangani.

In the fourth semester, the course expects students to pursue any one of the three options between a capstone, dissertation or two electives. Shivangani opted for a capstone as she believed it would help her gain more working knowledge in her area of interest.

“I am deeply grateful to JGU as it helped me get my preferred capstone client, Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF). IFF was a steep learning curve for me where I got to work on different digital rights issues like data protection and surveillance. By treating me like any other employee of the organisation, the leadership trusted me with their serious policy work including drafting responses to government policies, writing blog posts for their website, and speaking at external events. Working with them helped me realise that I can beautifully combine my policy and media learnings by joining the policy advocacy space. It also helped me strengthen my resume, important for securing a respected job offer,” shares Shivangani proudly.

While one of the aims of pursuing a capstone is to finally convert it into a job, Shivangani decided to not take that path and instead decided to find an opening in a consultancy or a corporate.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my Masters in Public Policy programme at 91̽ and would recommend it to anyone interested in the field of public policy, policy making and politics,” shares Shivangani.

We wish her all the best for her future!

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Better Late than Never /blog/2022/06/05/better-late-than-never/ Sun, 05 Jun 2022 07:20:58 +0000 /blog/?p=2759 Continue Reading]]> The mercury was rising across India and so was the inflation rate in past two months. The whopping 14% plus increase in WPI already hit the headlines. Common man was feeling the heat of rising prices while purchasing their daily needs. It did not take much economics to realise that this rise in prices was primarily due to increase in oil price during the period. A quick glance into the crude petroleum market gave us the clear picture. In April 2021 the price of crude oil was hovering around USD 61.35 per barrel which increased to USD 76.99 in January 2022. And then it skyrocketed to USD 102.07 in April 2022. This implies a 66% rise in price of crude oil in just a span of one year and 32% hike in the last three months only. There was no doubt among economists regarding the transmission mechanism which was in action: complete pass through of surge in international price of crude oil to the consumers and retailers by the producers. It definitely triggered the inflation.


Inflation has been always under the surveillance of the RBI as it is one of the main objectives of any Central Bank (CB). In a situation like this, one can expect a contractionary monetary policy from RBI which will eventually raise the interest rates across the board and choke the rising inflation rate. And that’s what RBI did exactly on 4th May 2022 but at a much smaller scale than required. On the basis of an assessment of the current and evolving macroeconomic situation, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decided to increase the policy repo rate under the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) by 40 basis points to 4.40 per cent with immediate effect. However, we must understand that RBI was not in a position to raise the rates by significant amount to combat inflation due to the following reasons. We know that the last two years have been difficult for the world economy on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. Repeated waves of infection, supply-chain disruptions and, lack in consumer confidence have created particularly challenging times for policymaking. On top of it the rate of investment in Indian economy has dried down since 2014. Even before being hit by the pandemic, investment in the Indian economy was not at its best. The Indian economy was already in slowdown which further faced hurdles during the pandemic. In order to jumpstart the economy several supply side reforms were
introduced by Central Government. These supply-side reforms included but not limited to deregulation of numerous sectors, simplification of processes, removal of legacy issues like ‘retrospective tax’, privatisation, production-linked incentives and so on in recent times.


Overall, the major macro-economic stability indicators suggest that the Indian economy is well placed to take on the challenges of 2022-23. Given this background it was very unlikely or challenging for RBI to raise the rate of interest by significant amount which would inevitably put a halt in the revival of the economy and not complement the efforts taken by government to put Indian economy back on track. In addition the intensifying of geopolitical tensions, widespread toughening of global commodity prices, the probability of protracted supply chain disruptions, disruptions in trade and capital flows, deviating monetary policy responses and instability in world-wide financial markets are conveying continuously substantial upside risks to the inflation and downside risks to domestic growth. Thus, on one side RBI would surely want to keep the interest rate low. On the other hand, the current spike in inflation demands a hike in the interest rate.


No doubt, the scenario was vulnerable. Economists recognized and suggested that one possible way to slowdown the northward movement of inflation in immediate short run can be achieved to some extent by reducing the prevailing massive taxes and surcharges on petrol and diesel. The components of petrol and diesel prices in India is comprised of price charged to dealers (includes freight charges), excise duty levied by centre, sales tax/Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed by state and dealer commission. Public sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) modify the retail prices of petrol and diesel in India on a dayto-day basis, according to fluctuations in the price of global crude oil. The price charged to dealer includes the base price set by OMCs and the freight price. Last year on average the price charged to dealers makes up 42% of the retail price in the case of petrol, and 49% of the retail price in the case of diesel. On average, state governments collect 23% on every litre of petrol and 15% on diesel.

The Centre earned nearly Rs 8.02 lakh crore from taxes on petrol and diesel during the last three fiscal years, of which more than Rs 3.71 lakh crore was collected in financial year 2021 alone. It needs to be noted that unlike excise duty (levied by Centre), sales tax is an ad valorem tax, i.e., it does not have any fixed value, and is charged as a percentage of the price of the product. This indicates that while the value of excise duty element of the price structure is flat, the value of the sales tax component is dependent on the other three components, i.e., price charged to dealers, dealer commission, and excise duty and thus keeps on varying. On the other hand, centre’s excise duty is 33% and 34% on one litre of petrol and diesel respectively. Thus 56% of the price a consumer pay on petrol/diesel is nothing but tax. Undoubtedly these taxes increase the price of petrol and diesel. Thus, Central and State Governments had no choice but to reduce duties on petrol and diesel. Both Centre and state finally took the stand of reducing huge taxes and duties associated with petrol/diesel (better late than never!) for coming months till inflation cools off and there is a significant drop in oil prices in the international oil market. The decrease in taxes & duties in petroleum and diesel by both state and central governments surely offered some relief to consumers from soaring inflation without hugely troubling the key interest rates.

The article is written by Prof. (Dr.) Subaran Roy, Professor, Jindal School of Government and Public Policy.

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Empower Your Future: Study B.A. (Hons.) Economics /blog/2022/04/12/empower-your-future-study-b-a-hons-economics/ Tue, 12 Apr 2022 05:13:33 +0000 /blog/?p=2662 Continue Reading]]> Economics has been stretching in popularity because of its worldwide application. It is a discipline of social science that encompasses analysing the production, consumption, and distribution of products and services. In addition, it covers various topics concerning how global economies interact. As a result, economics degrees are universally recognised too!

One of the immensely regarded degrees in economics is B.A. Economics Honours. Bachelor of Arts in Economics is a fusion of Macroeconomics, Microeconomics and Statistics. B.A. Economics is a three-year undergraduate degree programme that deals with the key areas of qualitative and quantitative economic theories. The B.A. Economics subjects incorporate several focal points of economics, its problems, contemporary issues and techniques to tackle them effectively.

The subjects in this degree are centred around analytics and theories leading to successful career opportunities for graduates in India and abroad. Therefore, the career avenues that unlock after B.A. Economics are exceptional. Economics graduates acquire reputable positions in banking, finance, statistics, auditing, actuary, marketing, etc.

B.A. Honours in Economics involves a comprehensive study of economics’s micro, macro and statistical aspects, including definition, scope, limitations, utility, concepts, production, market, and other fundamental elements of economics. In addition, it involves scrutinising and examining the various aspects that contribute to running an economy—the career after B.A. Economics Honours is outstanding as it opens up enormous opportunities for the course graduates such as Sales Analyst, Economics Researcher, Economist, Investment Analyst, Customer Profit Analyst, Investment Administrator, etc.

Now, let’s shed some light on the scope and career opportunities after economics programmes.

Career after B.A. Economics

The career after B.A. Economics is vast and overreaching. An economics degree can uplift your employability possibilities in a broad spectrum of industries. Below are some possible career alternatives that open up after pursuing an economics degree from a renowned college or university.

Actuarial Analyst: An actuarial analyst is the one who is responsible for utilising statistical models to analyse data and calculate costs regarding the occasions like product failure or property destruction.

Data Analyst: A data analyst’s responsibility is to interpret numerical data in simple English. A data analyst uses a substantial volume of data to churn out valuable data to assist the organisation in making efficient decisions.

Economists: Economists are responsible for researching and analysing economic issues using mathematical models and statistical methods.

Financial Risk Analyst: Financial risk analysts are responsible for identifying and analysing potential financial risks that might put the functioning of an organisation at risk.

Statistician: A statistician’s role is similar to that of a data analyst. They are responsible for designing data acquisition trials by analysing and assessing data.

Data Scientist: A data scientist works to develop a range of machine-learning tools within an organisation to perform statistical analysis and enable the creation of recommendation engines and automated lead scoring systems.

Business Development Manager: A BD Manager is responsible for communicating product developments to potential clients and overseeing the progression of marketing strategies and their implementation.

Moreover, today, economists have been changing the way the world functions. They are among those who are adding a standard and quality into the economy’s dynamics. Therefore, a massive range of industries now acknowledges economists’ potential for the expansions and development of their businesses. 

Presently, less than 0.2 per cent of economists in India are working for 1.2 billion+ of its population. Therefore, there will be a soaring demand for economic graduates for the next two decades.

However, to be at the crest of your game as a B.A. Economics graduate, you should obtain a degree from a leading institution like 91̽ (JGU). The university enables you to get knowledge from internationally qualified teaching and research faculties from the best global universities like Harvard, Cambridge, Yale and Oxford.

In an education market that’s already swamped with options, we will give you five compelling reasons to pursue Economics degree from the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) of JGU:

  • Students will gain an in-depth understanding of classical paradigms and learn to apply insights to solve real-world problems.
  • Here, the curriculum is designed keeping in mind the global perspective further taught by research-oriented, internationally qualified faculty.
  • Students have the option of writing a research thesis under faculty supervision.
  • Students will benefit from JGU’s research-intensive environment and the on-campus research centres.
  • Students will also acquire the expertise to excel in different roles and functions.

At JGU’s JSGP, students get equipped with appropriate skills to outshine in international organisations, civil services, social sector etc. A world that is not so average anymore needs fierce leaders to excel. At every point today, a professional is tested and to have skills that will help them excel is no more an option. So if you see yourself in an international economic and business environment and if you are someone who seeks high-level practice-oriented education to realise your best capability, JGU’s JSGP is for you. For everything you are and can be, 91̽’s Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) will make it possible for you.

Click here to know more about India’s first public policy school.

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B.A. (Hons.) in Public Policy- A dynamic course for the next generation policymakers /blog/2022/03/08/b-a-hons-in-public-policy-a-dynamic-course-for-the-next-generation-policymakers/ Tue, 08 Mar 2022 06:10:56 +0000 /blog/?p=2614 Continue Reading]]> “The best public policy is made when you are listening to people who are going to be impacted”

– Elizabeth Dole.

The world since 2020 has changed significantly in all its aspects – lifestyles, environment, economics, and more importantly governance and public policy.  While countries around the world came up to help each other, many of them change their policies not only in terms of national affairs but also for foreign engagement and partnerships. Public Policy of a country can create an impact across the world. Sound and principle public policies are persistently progressing space in a composite network across the world. While making a sound and effective public policy one must understand and uphold its traditional foundations and its different branches which emerge in the contemporary world.

In recent times, when the whole world is going through a structural change at the different stages of public policymaking and when the whole world is discussing the future of public policy in a significant way, students who are very keen on public policy and want to understand its roots must decide the best options for them.

The B.A. (Hons.) in the Public Policy programme at the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) excites and inspires the aspiring next-generation policymakers who wish to witness dynamic changes in the field of public policy across the world. The prime objective of this programme is to cater to policymaking with an in-depth knowledge of public policy, its evaluation, along its theory and practice. This programme is interdisciplinary and a first-of-its-kind programme offered in India. It is based on the evidence of political science, economics, sustainable human development, qualitative and quantitative research methods, data and statistics, and other relevant fields to help the policymakers engage in solving and addressing the most challenging public policy issues at the ground level.

The new generation is advanced in terms of technology, critical thinking and Innovation. Recently India secured 46th rank in the Global Innovation Index report of 2021. We at the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy examined and understood the importance of innovation and technology required for an individual and communities. The B.A. (Hons.) in Public Policy programme will allow future generations of policymakers to study policymaking and analysis with their interest groups, comparative public policy, various issues of governance and public management. With the help of excellent and internationally-trained faculty students will have a golden opportunity to work with those who are probing issues that will affect the future of public policy making. The students will also have an excellent opportunity to work with the best faculty from across the world who study and addresses the critical and growing issues of public policy under the following research centres:

·       Centre for Ethics, Law, and Political Economy.

·       Centre for Development and Finance.

·       Centre for Sustainability.

·       JSGP Policy Research Lab.

·       Centre for Complexity Economics, Applied Spirituality and Public Policy.

It has been truly said that there is no substitute for learning from real-world experiences, and that is why we at Jindal School of Government and Public Policy provide this opportunity to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge which will help them to acquire a job in the field of public policy, governance, globalization, policy monitoring and evaluation. Implementation has been the biggest challenge, especially in India, this course will equip the student with the necessary and required critical and analytical skills for understanding the challenges of public policy at the grassroots levels and suggest a way forward for effective implementation.

“A stepping stone to an exciting career in public life” 

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People, Policy & Pandemic- Role of the Public Health Professionals in redefining Public Health system /blog/2022/01/27/people-policy-pandemic-role-of-the-public-health-professionals-in-redefining-public-health-system/ Thu, 27 Jan 2022 06:58:05 +0000 /blog/?p=2537 Continue Reading]]> “Public health service should be as fully organized and as universally incorporated into our governmental system as is public education. The returns are a thousand fold in economic benefits, and infinitely more in reduction of suffering and promotion of human happiness.”-

Health is an essential aspect of human well-being and economic progress. The beginning of the Covid-19 has showcased India with the mix of challenges of financial and public health. This pandemic is the worst in the history of humankind, and it comes with enormous global challenges which require action on a worldwide level. The current outbreak has clearly shown the requirement for further research and development in a pandemic to prevent such an outbreak in the future.

A good public policy is based on a sound principle when it gives equal importance to the lives and livelihoods of the people of a country. With a population of 1.366 billion, India’s healthcare needs are immense. Advanced levels of healthcare facilities and expertise are concentrated in large cities while there is a dire need for such healthcare facilities and expertise in small cities and rural parts. The Covid-19 pandemic has revealed that an effective and well-functioning personal health data infrastructure could play a key role in public health management and the Indian healthcare system by enabling larger health monitoring, socio-economic studies, equitable resource distribution and effective and timely policy intervention. This initiative is seen as a significant step towards India’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage. It will certainly help in making the Indian healthcare system more categorised, efficient, transparent, and effective.

Why is Public Health & Human Development so Important?

The principal objective of public health is its prevention in nature because it has been said that prevention is better than cure and it is far less expensive than cure. Public health is extremely important for any developed and developing nation as it safeguards that everyone is aware of the health hazards and their consequences in the longer term. Human development depends on the quality of healthcare services that an individual and a community receive through influencing the government’s policies. One of the three dimensions of a human development index is a long and healthy life. Much more depends on the quality and affordable healthcare services and systems.

The current ongoing Covid-19 has compelled the entire world to shift focus on public health and the aspiring public health professionals from their traditional approach where they were investing and giving more importance to the technical and its allied fields. Now there is an almost acceptance that public health could be used as a national security threat and a well-developed country could use this as a biological weapon against another country. During this pandemic, an interest in the field of public health at the undergraduate level has been felt along with the demand for young, aspiring and skilled public health professionals.

We at 91̽ (JGU)are committed to the public and community services and we prepare and equip our students with the same motives. By understanding the need of the young and aspiring health professionals, JGU has launched a very unique course called Bachelor of Public Health (Hons.) through Jindal School of Public Health & Human Development (JSPH). The main objective is to meet the vigorous needs and aspirations of the nation and society through its research and innovation aspects. JGU is known for its research and innovation approach with the help of a multidisciplinary approach.

As it is a new and unique course, the young and aspiring health professionals are likely to have some doubts and confusion. Through this writing, I would like to throw some light on its importance and the career opportunities after B.A. Public Health.

Many would think if it is worth it or not? The Bachelor of Public Health is the most important and one of the few degrees where young and aspiring public health professionals can create a huge impact on people’s health and the economy of a country. It is one of the rewarding and secure jobs as compared to other conventional degrees.

Below is the data[1] for some of the examples of the top public health career which includes:

  • Healthcare Administrator, the average salary of 
  • Public Health Advisor, the average salary of 
  • Public Health Administrator, the average salary of 
  • Public Health Analyst, the average salary of 
  • Health Educator, the average salary of 
  • Community Health Coordinator, the average salary of 
  • Community Health Worker, the average salary of 

If a young and aspiring public health professional to have an advanced career in the field of public health, then completing a bachelor’s degree in public health is the right step in the direction of pursuing a master’s degree in public health. In a public health degree programme at the undergraduate level, a young and aspiring public health professional will be knowing how the conditions and circumstances in the places where people live, learn and grow and how that affect their healthcare and its outcomes. You will get to know and learn very closely about the interventions which a public health professional which increases the health outcomes at the ground level. Additionally, Bachelor of Public Health course at JGU will enable them to learn and know the environmental impact on human health, and how a policy and sets of data can play a significant role in transforming the health of populations to prevent a future’s pandemic.

Why choose JGU for Bachelor of Public Health (Hons.) degree?

JGU is India’s No.1 University dedicated to the Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities. We train and teach tomorrow’s public health professionals and leaders who can lead the nation and society as and when required. The students of Bachelor of Public Health degree at the Jindal School of Public Health and Human Development (JSPH) will be prepared to carry out a positive and impactful change through engaging opportunities with the excellent and topmost educated faculty, access to innovation and community-based learning. The faculty members at the JSPH are trained medical professionals and have worked with national and international governments across the world.

JSPH is building partnerships with relevant institutions, including the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI), the Human Development and Capabilities Association (HDCA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and other schools of public health in different countries, to establish joint courses and research projects with partners. It will also develop opportunities for students to spend a semester abroad as part of exchange programmes[2].

Another distinct feature and advantage of studying Bachelor of Public Health degree at JSPH is that you will have access and chance to learn and study psychology and its allied domain at the from distinguished and certified scholars and professors. It is headed by the renowned personality Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev P. Sahni. When you study Public Health then it is of utmost necessity to study community mental health and leadership and its changing aspects. In this context, JIBS have two dedicated research centres which are the Centre for Leadership & Change and the Centre for Community Mental Health. The young and aspiring public health professional will not get such a golden opportunity anywhere else across the Country.

“I sincerely hope that you will make the best use of this amazing opportunity to pursue studies in public health at a Global University. I am confident that the outstanding faculty of JSPH will inspire and motivate you to work hard and engage in rigorous academic work reflecting a sense of passionate commitment to achieving excellence,” says Professor (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor, 91̽ (JGU). 

The article and creatives are curated by Content, and Advertising & Digital Strategy (ADS) Team of 91̽.


[1]

[2] /jsph/bachelor-of-public-health-partnerships/

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