In a move initiated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, high-calibre graduates from institutions like the Indian Institutes of Management, as well as graduates from other streams like law, may be attached with government departments for some duration of time for the purpose of exposure.
A meeting to discuss the modalities for such a initiative was held at the finance ministry today, said sources. The meeting was chaired by advisor to FM Parthasarthy Shome. It is likely that students would be given an opportunity to work on specific projects and be paid stipends.
Among the departments particularly being considered for the initiative are revenue and those dealing with infrastructure.
When contacted, an Indian Institute of Management - Ahmedabad teacher told Business Standard that the model could work, though a lot depended on how the government attracted such students.
"The benefits of such an exercise would be that students will be able to bring a fresh perspective to the government, different from that of career bureaucrats. Apart from interning with corporates, IIM students regularly opt for similar attachments with NGOs. If the government can offer interesting projects to work on, our students would definitely welcome the opportunity," he said.
A bureaucrat said that while it was inconceivable for students to be involved in the exercise of executive authority, their inputs could be used in decision-making with regard to projects of a technical and specialised nature.
A number of IIM students have a technical background, besides being versed with management methods.
"Perhaps, they will also appreciate the pressures and limitations of the government system and carry a more favourable impression (of government working)," he added.
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