Development Management
Development Management
Chapter 1
1.1 Development
Development is a systematic and continuous process of improvement that enhances the quality of
life, economic growth, social well-being, technological progress, and environmental sustainability.
It involves transformative changes in various sectors, leading to higher efficiency, better
opportunities, and long-term sustainability.
Development is not just about economic expansion but also includes improvements in education,
healthcare, governance, infrastructure, and overall human well-being.
Key Characteristics of Development
1. Multidimensional – Covers economic, social, political, technological, and environmental aspects.
2. Progressive – Involves continuous growth and improvement over time.
3. Sustainable – Ensures long-term benefits without depleting resources or harming future generations.
4. Inclusive(समावेशी) – Aims to reduce inequalities and provide opportunities for all individuals.
5. Measured by Indicators – Common indicators include GDP, literacy rate, Human Development Index
(HDI), and technological advancements.
1.2 Dimensions of Development (अवधिहरू वा पाटोहरू/aspect)
1. Economic Development
Economic development refers to the process of improving the economic status of a country or region,
which involves the growth of income, wealth distribution, infrastructure, and economic activities that
drive national prosperity.
Indicators: Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Per capita income, Employment and job creation,
Industrialization and diversification
2. Social Development
Social development emphasizes improving quality of life through better access to essential services such
as education, healthcare, social security, and equality. It fosters social cohesion, stability, and social
justice.
Indicators: Education and literacy rates, Health indicators (life expectancy, maternal health, etc.),
Social inclusion and gender equality , Access to basic services (water, sanitation, etc.)
3. Political Development
Political development focuses on strengthening the democratic institutions, rule of law, governance
structures, and citizen participation in the political process.( राजनीतिक विकासले
लोकतान्त्रिक संस्थाहरू, कानूनको शासन, प्रशासनिक संरचनाहरू र
नागरिकको राजनीतिक प्रक्रियामा सहभागिता मजबुत बनाउनेमा
ध्यान केन्द्रित गर्दछ।) It is fundamental for building transparent, accountable, and
effective political systems.
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Indicators: Rule of law and legal protections, Political stability, Political participation and civil
liberties, Corruption control and governance quality
4. Technological Development
Technological development involves the advancement and adoption of innovative technologies to
improve productivity, efficiency, and quality of life (development). It encompasses advancements in
infrastructure, communication, and digital transformation.
Indicators: Access to and use of technology (internet, mobile connectivity), Investment in research and
development (R&D), Innovation and technological adoption, Infrastructure development (transport,
communication, etc.)
5. Environmental Development
Environmental development focuses on achieving sustainable growth while ensuring the conservation
and management of natural resources. It aims to balance human needs with the protection of ecosystems
and the environment.
Indicators: Carbon footprint and emissions, Renewable energy adoption, Resource conservation and
waste management, Biodiversity preservation
6. Human Development
Human development is the process of improving the quality of life for individuals by expanding their
access to opportunities such as education, healthcare, and economic resources. It focuses on enhancing
people's abilities, freedom, and choices, so they can live healthier, more fulfilling lives. The goal is to
ensure that everyone can reach their full potential and enjoy a life of dignity and well-being.
Indicators: Human Development Index (HDI), Income distribution and equality, Health, education, and
security, Life satisfaction and happiness
7. Cultural Development
Cultural development is the nurturing, preservation, and promotion of cultural identity, diversity, and
expression. Nurturing (पालन गर्नु) भनेको केहि कुरा वा परम्परालाई
समर्थन गर्ने, माया गर्ने, र यसको विकास गर्न मद्दत गर्ने हो। It
involves fostering creativity, arts, and cultural awareness while maintaining heritage.
Indicators: Cultural participation and representation, Cultural preservation and heritage, Creative
industries (arts, media, literature)
What is Development Administration?
Development administration is the process of implementing policies and programs that aim to improve the
welfare of the society. It's about planning, organizing, and managing development activities to meet the
government's goals for economic, social, and infrastructural development.
Who does it?
o Primarily, government agencies at national, regional, or local levels.
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o Example: A government might decide to build more schools in rural areas to provide education.
2. Resource Management:
o Resources like money, materials, and human skills need to be properly managed to make sure
projects run smoothly.
o Example: The government has to decide how to use the budget to build schools, hire teachers, and
buy materials.
3. Coordination:
o Development involves many parts, like different government departments, local communities, and
sometimes international organizations. Development administration ensures these groups work
together.
o Example: The department of transportation works with local governments and builders to build the
new roads.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation:
o Once a project is running, it’s important to check if it's working as planned. This is where
monitoring and evaluation come in. It helps identify if the development plan is being successful or
if something needs to be adjusted.
o Example: The government might check if the new schools are actually enrolling children and
whether the facilities are adequate.
Challenges in Development Administration
1. Inefficient Bureaucracy: Bureaucracy(कर्मचारीतन्त्र) refers to a system of government
or management in which decisions are made by state officials or administrators rather than by elected
representatives. Complex, slow, and rigid bureaucratic processes can delay or obstruct the effective
implementation of development projects.
2. Lack of Coordination: Poor coordination between various government departments, agencies, and
stakeholders can lead to fragmented efforts and duplication of resources.
3. Political Interference: Political pressures and interference can distort priorities and result in the
misallocation of resources, undermining development objectives.
4. Corruption: Corruption within government systems can divert funds, mismanage resources, and lead
to the failure of development programs.
5. Resource Constraints: Limited financial, human, and material resources can hinder the ability of
development administration to execute projects effectively.
6. Inadequate Planning and Monitoring: Insufficient planning, poor data collection, and lack of
effective monitoring and evaluation can lead to unsuccessful or incomplete projects.
7. Lack of Transparency: Lack of transparency in decision-making processes can lead to distrust among
stakeholders and hinder the success of development initiatives.
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8. Resistance to Change: Traditional attitudes, local customs, and resistance from communities or
government employees can obstruct development efforts.
9. Limited Capacity and Skill Development: A shortage of skilled personnel and inadequate training for
government staff can result in inefficiencies and poor project management.
10. Conflicting Priorities: Conflicting interests between different political parties, interest groups, or
sectors can delay or prevent the implementation of development policies.
11. Overemphasis on External Aid: Over-reliance on foreign aid can reduce local ownership of
development projects and lead to dependency, limiting sustainability.
12. Inadequate Infrastructure: A lack of basic infrastructure (roads, electricity, water, etc.) can make it
difficult for development initiatives to succeed in remote or underserved areas.
13. Social and Cultural Barriers: Social and cultural norms can limit the effectiveness of development
policies, especially those related to gender equality, education, or health.
14. Weak Legal and Institutional Framework: A lack of strong legal systems or institutional frameworks
can hinder the proper implementation of development policies and the enforcement of regulations.
15. Economic Instability: Economic crises, inflation, or budget deficits can severely impact the
government’s ability to fund and implement development projects.
1.3 Evolution of Development Administration
Development Administration has evolved over time in response to changing political, economic, and
social conditions. It reflects the shift from centralized, bureaucratic systems to more inclusive,
participatory, and sustainable approaches to development.
(what are the major changes in the field of development administration when its intellectual foundation
was laid down in early1950's?)
1. Post-World War II (1940s–1950s): Modernization and State-Led Development
Context: After World War II, many newly independent countries were striving to modernize their
economies, societies, and governance systems. These countries needed to catch up with the
industrialized Western nations, which were already advanced in terms of infrastructure, technology, and
economy.
Focus: The focus was on modernization through state-led development. This meant that governments
took the central role in planning and implementing economic development policies.
Key Features:
Modernization theory: The belief that developing countries could achieve economic progress by
following the same path that Western countries had taken. This included industrialization,
urbanization, and adopting Western-style governance and institutions.
Centralized control by governments.
Emphasis on economic growth through large-scale infrastructure development.
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Deregulation: Reducing government regulations in sectors like finance, trade, and industry to create a
more flexible and dynamic economy.
Key Features:
o Community involvement in planning and execution.
o Emphasis on human development (education, healthcare, and social justice).
o Growth of NGOs and civil society organizations.
o Sustainability concerns and environmental protection.
Example: Nepal introduced local governance policies, empowering Village Development
Committees (VDCs) and Municipalities.
4. 2000s–Present: Governance, Institutional Capacity, and Globalization
Focus: Strengthening institutions for good governance and sustainable development.
Key Approaches:
Good Governance: Emphasizing accountability, rule of law, and transparency as the cornerstone
for achieving effective development.
Institutional Capacity Building: Strengthening government institutions to implement policies
effectively and ensure sustainable development.
Globalization: Development strategies have become more interconnected globally, with
international cooperation and the influence of global institutions (e.g., UN, World Bank) playing a
significant role.
Key Features:
Focus on accountability and transparency in governance.
Strengthening of local governance systems and government institutions.
Global cooperation through the adoption of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Growth of public-private partnerships (PPP) for development projects.
Use of e-Governance and technology for better service delivery and governance.
Example (Nepal): Nepal's Local Governance Act (2017) decentralized power to municipalities and
other local bodies, promoting local autonomy and better governance.
5. Future Trends: Human-Centered and Inclusive Development
Focus: Human development and inclusive growth, ensuring equity, sustainability, and
technological integration.
Approach: People-first development models, where growth is measured by human well-being
rather than just economic indicators.
Key Theories:
o Human Development Theory (Amartya Sen, UNDP) – Development should expand
human capabilities.
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o Inclusive Growth Theory – Ensures benefits of economic growth reach all segments of
society.
Key Features:
o Focus on quality of life, healthcare, and education.
o Inclusive development, addressing marginalized communities.
o Integration of AI, Big Data, and digital governance.
o Social justice, inequality reduction, and environmental protection.
Example: Nepal’s Digital Nepal Framework focuses on technology-driven development.
Conclusion
The evolution of Development Administration reflects shifts from centralized, bureaucratic models to
inclusive, participatory governance. Various theories have shaped policies over time, from Modernization
and Scientific Management to Participatory Development and Good Governance. Today’s development
models emphasize transparency, sustainability, and technological integration, ensuring that no group is left
behind in the development process.
Functions of development management are:
1. Planning and strategizing development projects.
2. Resource management (human, financial, material).
3. Implementation of the development activities.
4. Coordination of stakeholders and teams.
5. Monitoring and evaluating progress.
6. Risk management to address challenges.
7. Financial management to ensure the project stays within budget.
8. Communication to keep all parties informed.
9. Ensuring sustainability and long-term impact of the project.
10. Leadership and decision-making to guide the project towards success.
1.4 Paradigm Shift in Development Administration
(How development management is shifted from development administration? )
The "How" refers to the methods, approaches, and mechanisms through which the transition took place.
It explains what changes occurred in the practices, structure, and functioning of development processes.
A paradigm shift in development administration refers to a fundamental change in the approach,
methodology, and philosophy of how development activities are planned, implemented, and managed. This
shift reflects the evolution of development thinking from a government-centered, top-down model to a
more inclusive, sustainable, and flexible approach. Below are the key stages and aspects of this paradigm
shift:
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Conclusion:
The shift from Development Administration to Development Management marks a move towards a more
inclusive, flexible, and sustainable approach to development. It emphasizes community involvement,
multi-stakeholder collaboration, and the use of technology to meet the diverse needs of modern society,
ensuring more effective and equitable development outcomes.
o The shift towards sustainable development called for a broader perspective beyond economic
growth.
3. Globalization and International Cooperation
o Global interdependence and collaboration with international organizations like the UN and World
Bank shaped development administration policies.
o Foreign aid and global goals like the SDGs encouraged alignment with international standards and
cooperation.
4. Technological Advancements
o The rise of ICT revolutionized data collection, planning, and communication, enhancing
development administration efficiency.
o e-Government initiatives and digital governance modernized administrative processes, increasing
accessibility and transparency.
5. Changing Views on Governance and Administration
o The New Public Management (NPM) model shifted focus to efficiency and performance,
influencing development administration practices.
o Emphasis on good governance and decentralization led to more participatory and transparent
decision-making.
6. Management and Organizational Theories
o The application of systems theory and participatory development encouraged a more holistic and
community-centered approach to development.
o The shift towards results-based management and monitoring and evaluation improved the
accountability and effectiveness of development programs.
7. Public Sector Reforms
o Reforms in the public sector aimed at improving service delivery, accountability, and citizen
participation transformed the role of development administrators to focus on outcomes and
efficiency.
8. Criticism of Traditional Development Models
o Failures of top-down approaches prompted the adoption of bottom-up development strategies,
encouraging administrators to embrace more inclusive and context-sensitive methods.
9. Cultural and Contextual Sensitivity
o Recognizing the importance of local cultures and social norms, administrators began integrating
context-specific strategies into development processes.
10. Environmental and Sustainability Concerns
Growing awareness of environmental sustainability and climate change encouraged the
integration of sustainable development practices in administrative frameworks.
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Conclusion
The evolution of Development Administration was influenced by political, economic, technological, and
social changes, which led to a more participatory, sustainable, and result-oriented approach to managing
development. This shift allowed for better integration of local contexts, global goals, and technological
advancements, enhancing the effectiveness of development administration in addressing modern
challenges.
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Chapter 2
Bureaucratic Model of Development Administration
Bureaucracy is a system of administration characterized by hierarchical organization, standardized
procedures, and formal rules. It is commonly used in government institutions, large organizations, and
corporations to manage complex tasks efficiently.
The Bureaucratic Model of Development Administration is based on Max Weber’s theory of
bureaucracy, which emphasizes a structured, rule-based, and hierarchical approach to governance.
This model was widely adopted in post-colonial and developing countries to ensure efficient
implementation of development programs.
Key Features of the Bureaucratic Model
1. Hierarchy and Centralization
o Clearly defined chain of command from top officials to lower-level employees.
o Decision-making is highly centralized, with power concentrated at higher administrative levels.
2. Rule-Based Administration
o Development policies and projects are executed according to predefined rules and procedures.
o Reduces favoritism and promotes consistency in decision-making.
3. Specialization and Division of Labor
o Officials are assigned specific roles and responsibilities based on expertise.
o Promotes efficiency and accountability in development programs.
4. Formal Procedures and Documentation
o Every administrative process follows a standard set of procedures to ensure transparency.
o Detailed record-keeping and documentation are mandatory.
5. Merit-Based Recruitment and Promotion
o Bureaucrats are selected through competitive exams and qualifications, ensuring professionalism.
o Reduces political interference in administration.
6. Impersonality and Neutrality
o Officials are expected to make decisions objectively without personal bias.
o Bureaucracy is supposed to be free from political or personal influences.
7. Rigid Structure and Slow Decision-Making
o The hierarchical nature of bureaucracy often leads to delays in decision-making.
o The strict adherence to rules sometimes creates inefficiencies in handling urgent matters.
Role of Bureaucracy in Development Administration
1. Policy Implementation
o Bureaucrats translate government policies into action by executing development programs.
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The District Administration Office (DAO) implements government policies, security measures,
and development projects at the district level.
It follows bureaucratic hierarchy, with a Chief District Officer (CDO) overseeing law
enforcement, disaster management, and local development.
Example: During the 2015 Earthquake, DAOs coordinated relief distribution through strict
government protocols, ensuring organized disaster response.
Conclusion
The Bureaucratic Model of Development Administration provides structure, stability, and
professionalism in governance. However, its rigid nature often results in delays, inefficiency, and lack of
citizen engagement, leading to calls for more flexible, participatory, and decentralized approaches in
modern development administration.
Application of the Weberian Bureaucratic Model in the Present Context
The Weberian Bureaucratic Model provides a structured approach to administration and management. It
is applied in various sectors to ensure efficiency, fairness, and systematic governance. The model is
implemented through hierarchical structures, standardized rules, division of labor, and merit-based
decision-making.
1. Implementation of Hierarchical Authority
Organizations follow a clear chain of command where each level of authority supervises the lower levels.
Application in Government: Ministries and public offices follow a top-down decision-making
process, ensuring that policies are implemented uniformly.
Application in Business: Large corporations have executive leadership, managers, and
employees, ensuring structured decision-making and accountability.
2. Use of Formal Rules and Regulations
Weber’s bureaucracy emphasizes strict adherence to formal rules to ensure consistency and fairness.
Application in Judiciary: Courts follow legal procedures to maintain justice and impartiality.
Application in Education: Universities follow standardized admission and examination rules,
ensuring equal opportunities for students.
3. Specialization and Division of Labor
The model ensures that work is divided based on expertise and job roles, improving efficiency.
Application in Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, and administrative staff have clearly defined roles,
preventing overlap and confusion.
Application in IT Companies: Employees work in specialized roles such as software
development, testing, and cybersecurity, ensuring high productivity.
4. Impersonality in Decision-Making
Decisions are made based on objective criteria rather than personal relationships, reducing favoritism.
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Application in Public Services: Hiring in government jobs is based on competitive exams and
qualifications rather than personal connections.
Application in Corporate Hiring: Companies follow structured recruitment processes, ensuring
fair selection of employees.
5. Formal Record-Keeping for Accountability
Bureaucratic systems maintain official records for transparency and tracking purposes.
Application in Law Enforcement: Police departments maintain criminal records to ensure
systematic case handling.
Application in Banking: Banks keep financial transaction records to prevent fraud and ensure
compliance with regulations.
Conclusion
The Weberian Bureaucratic Model is applied in modern governance, business, healthcare, and education
through structured hierarchies, rules, specialization, and accountability mechanisms. However,
organizations are also adapting the model by introducing flexibility and digital solutions to overcome
inefficiencies while maintaining structured governance.
Authority in the Bureaucratic Model: Categorization and Explanation
In a bureaucratic model, authority is the legitimate power that officials and institutions have to make
decisions, enforce laws, and manage public administration. Max Weber, a German sociologist, classified
authority into three types that define how power is exercised in bureaucratic structures.