Thursday, April 16, 2009

Academics in government

There has been much criticism about how the "dream team" of Manmohan Singh, Montek Ahluwallia and P Chidambaram did little or nothing on economic reforms. It's interesting that two of the three members have strong academic credentials. An article in FT echoes the criticism:
The whole reform programme relies on the prime minister himself. Mr Rao and A.B. Vajpayee proved their mettle, despite heavy political constraints. Mr Singh has failed; he should bear much of the blame. The Congress party does not deserve to be re-elected and the dream team does not deserve to continue in office.
It also has some strong things to say about academics in positions of authority:
........Mr Singh has proved a hopeless decision-maker as prime minister. Sadly, he proves the rule that academics should generally be “on tap” but not “on top”.

6 comments:

Aravind said...

Quite true. Although it may not be the fault of Dr.Singh. The Congress has failed India over the 50 years they were ruling us.

K.R.Srivarahan said...

It is quite an unbalanced criticism of Manmohan Singh's leadership.The FT writer should not expect fiscal rectitude in these tough times.Is he advocating reforms for the sake of reforms? Thanks for providing the link, nevertheless.

Anonymous said...

"...two of the three members have strong academic credentials" - I think all 3 have. Who among do you think does have that great academic credentials? Chidambram?

swati said...

Dear Sir,
I find this criticism to be unfair and highly biased. The fact remains that under the coalition form of governmant certain decisions cannot be taken.Morever the growth rate and the social reforms carried out by the present government seemed to be in the right direction.

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