Monika Shukla

India's ambitious urban future depends fundamentally on strong and resilient governance. However, an emerging concern is the growing reliance on external consultants, which, if not strategically managed, could impact institutional capacity and long-term sustainability. The increasing integration of a "consultant culture" within public institutions and policy think tanks—often with unclear lines of accountability—risks diluting institutional memory and weakening policy continuity. Consultants undoubtedly bring specialised expertise and play an essential role in bridging knowledge and capacity gaps. However, their engagement must complement—not substitute—the core functions of public institutions. The critical policy roles and policy narratives should remain within the purview of a strong and capable public system. There is an urgent need to recalibrate this balance by investing in internal capacity development and by establishing robust standards for how consultants are engaged. Such measures will help ensure that external expertise reinforces governance frameworks, rather than unintentionally undermining them. I am pleased to share that some of these reflections were featured in Dainik Jagran today. #UrbanIndia #PublicAdmin #CapacityFirst #StrategicGovernance #DainikJagran #UrbanGovernance #India #CapacityBuilding #InstitutionalIntegrity

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HARITIKA: A Journey of Water and Livelihood Transformation Since 1994 Founded in 1994, HARITIKA has been at the forefront of integrated rural development in Central India, with a core focus on addressing water scarcity—a major constraint to the region’s socio-economic growth. Water Resource Management Recognizing the acute water crisis in Bundelkhand and surrounding regions, HARITIKA conducted a pivotal research study titled: “Multi-Layered Management of Water Resources in Bhadar River Sub-Basin, Nowgong Block of Chhatarpur District.” This study laid the foundation for a large-scale implementation of solar-powered safe drinking water systems based on the Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) approach. Through these efforts, we established 24/7 water supply schemes across: Uttar Pradesh: Jhansi, Agra, Lalitpur, Mahoba Madhya Pradesh: Chhatarpur, Vidisha, Betul, Damoh, Katni, Panna, Barwani Rajasthan: Baran, Churu, Tonk, Banswara Maharashtra: Dhule and Jalgaon (Aner, Bhadar, Karpia & Banne River Basins) Livelihood & Holistic Development Beyond water, HARITIKA has addressed the broader challenges of livelihood insecurity, especially in tribal and marginalized communities. We have introduced integrated development models such as: Wadi Development Project – Supporting sustainable tribal livelihoods through horticulture and agroforestry. Model Village Project – Developing infrastructure including electricity, education, sanitation, and roads. Water Replenishment Projects – Enhancing groundwater recharge and irrigation through eco-friendly technologies. These interventions have led to comprehensive rural transformation and economic upliftment in deeply underserved regions. Our Impact at a Glance Villages Covered: 2,550+ Safe Drinking Water Access: 10,42,000+ villagers Water Stored: 250+ billion liters Land Irrigated: 45,000+ hectares Target Communities: Women, SC/STs, marginal & small farmers, and children Through continuous grassroots engagement and a community-first approach, HARITIKA has become a catalyst for sustainable development across Bundelkhand and Central India.

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