Agriculture Initiative an Ideal blueprint For entire Civil service
The Ministry of Agriculture has launched a plan that could also act as a blueprint for all ministries.
It’s called the Costed Operational Plan (COP) 20202021.
What does it all mean?
Permanent Secretary Ritesh Dass aptly summed it up when he addressed his senior management during the COP launch last week,
‘Let’s double our effort and be smart about how we can realise our aspirations, “he said.
Mr Dass explained the COP was the ministry’s working document that specified measurable targets, timebound against quantity and quality of activities that would enable the successful achievement of the five Strategic Priority targets.
This is a target driven plan designed to achieve maximum benefits for the people in the desired outcomes. At a time when resources are limited as Government revenue significantly decreases because of the COVID-19 impact their efficient use is absolutely essential. All development projects must be measured every step of the way to ensure they are keeping up with the forecast.
This is consistent with the vision of Minister Mahendra Reddy who is under pressure to fill the void left by the collapse of the tourism industry.
Many of our farmers, who operate on a subsistence level, can develop commercial operations with professional help. They need guidance and support,
Food production is big business in the context of exports.
We have land that is idle which can be developed to meet export demands. Under COP it can be done.
The same concept can be used to lift performance in other ministries.
Delivery of service to the people is of paramount importance. Civil Servants must step up and provide that service.
The COP concept should be adopted by he rest of the ministries and adapted to suit their programmes.