SAARC proposes regional network to monitor governance

SAARC member nations have suggested the setting up of a regional 'government performance management network' on the lines of the sophisticated 'performance monitoring and evaluation system' for government departments set up by India.

Delegates from SAARC countries showed interest in the Indian model as they felt the new system swiftly implemented by India will lead to an effective, efficient and transparent governance.

A region-wide network to monitor government performance would help countries to share experiences and emerging regional best practices on an ongoing basis, the delegates felt.

The member countries have also proposed the institution of a SAARC 'award for innovations' in government performance management and development of a system to facilitate government-to-government (G2G) consulting services in the SAARC region.

The recommendations, made at the end of a workshop held in New Delhi on 30-31 March are likely to be placed for consideration at the next SAARC summit to be held later this month in Thimpu, Bhutan.

In his inaugural address, cabinet secretary K M Chandrasekhar said that in an increasingly globalised world, government effectiveness holds the key to a nation's competitive advantage.