New Delhi, June 4 (IANS) Focusing on reforms in governance, the Manmohan Singh government has made it mandatory for every proposal that comes before the cabinet to include explanation of how it furthers the cause of equity and inclusiveness.
“As part of process reform, all proposals to the cabinet will have to report on how the proposal under consideration will enhance the goals of equity or inclusion, innovation and public accountability,” President Pratibha Patil told a joint session of parliament Thursday.

“An area of major focus for my government would be reform of governance for effective delivery of public services,” she said.

The voluminous reports of the Administrative Reforms Commission would also be put to use, the president said, and added: “Reform of structures in the higher echelons of government, increased decentralisation, (and) inclusion of women and youth in governance would be the key areas of focussed action.”

She also counted “public accountability and process reform” among the chief areas of focus.