Author: DEEPIKA SETHIA

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, a paradox deserves closer attention than the politics of the moment. The Indian State has become more capable than ever before, while its citizens have become more conscious and aware. Far from pulling in opposite directions, the two developments are reinforcing each other. Greater institutional capacity has also raised the cost of institutional failure. The defining question before the Indian Republic is whether public institutions can continue to command confidence as they pursue further reform. A stronger State raises the bar The past year is often told through two competing narratives. One celebrates…