In the long term, the institutions of a country are perhaps the greatest determinant of its growth and development. Institutions are the “rules of the game in a society”; they determine incentives and outcomes in all spheres of human life. The institutions of governance of our country embody norms such as democracy, republicanism, accountability, transparency, citizenship, and human rights. Their fidelity to these norms are central to the development of any country, not just politically, but also economically and socially.

In this theme, we focus on how institutions of the state in India can work better to promote development. Our sub-themes under this theme are:

• District and Municipal local self-government
• Public systems – efficiency, accountability, transparency
• Legislative processes and the court system