District Planning Lessons From India, Planning Guide, 1995

District Planning : Lessons from India

TRAINING MATERIALS FOR AGRICULTURAL PLANNING

37/1

Planning Guide

Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussorie, India

Agricultural Policy Support Services, Policy Assistance Division, FAO Technical Cooperation Department

FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS Rome, 1995

FOREWORD

The current structural adjustment process in India aims at changing the roles of the government and the civil society so as to promote private sector development and concentrate public sector interventions in those areas where, (as stated in the Directional Paper of the Eighth Plan), "private sector participation is not likely to come forth to an adequate extent within a reasonable time perspective". Concurrently with changes in macro-economic policies, the Government of India also brought about important Constitutional Amendments to strengthen local governments and decentralised planning. The Seventy-third and Seventy-fourth Constitutional Amendments envisage the empowerment of panchayats and municipalities by their State legislatures to prepare "plans for economic development and social justice" encompassing agriculture, small-scale industry, health, education and poverty. This will place a heavy burden of decision-making upon locally elected officials as well as the Government officers who advise them and who have to implement the ultimate decisions. This Manual intends to provide district functionaries with concepts and simple tools of analysis for the preparation of district plans according to the existing planning procedures and processes of consultation with the panchayat bodies. It has been prepared through a joint collaborative effort of specialists from eight institutions in India, thus encompassing the experience in district planning and in training which exist in the country. The Manual comprises a Planning Guide and a Trainers' Guide. The Planning Guide is a set of simple and self-contained guidelines for planning that can be used (if necessary) without prior training. The Trainers' Guide is meant to help trainers plan and run courses on district planning using the Planning Guide as the main text. We hope that it will be useful and that it will result in more effective planning and implementation. We also expect trainers and district functionaries to adapt it to their own context and to make it evolve over time. Although the Manual is prepared on the basis of Indian experience and needs, the approach and methods are of wider interest to cater to the requirements of other countries embarking on decentralisation of planning. We shall appreciate receiving feedback on its use.

M. Cox

N.C. Saxena Director Lai Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration Mussoorie, India

Director Policy Assistance Division FAO Rome, Italy

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Table of contents Foreword Acronyms Preface Chapter 1: 1.1 1.2 Chapter 2: 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Chapter 3:

Purpose of this Guide Many district plans have been prepared in India but an effective district level planning process has not been firmly established A better district plan has five important characteristics How to use this Guide Introduction The layout of the Planning Guide The presentation of material on the pages of the Guide Definitions Matrices, tables and formats How to use the Guide District Analysis

3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5

Purpose of this chapter Layout of the chapter Assembling a district data matrix Identifying block level disparities Constructing tables for previous years to enable trends to be analysed 3.6 Analysis of trends 3.7 Preparation of district summary tables 3.8 Preparation of base maps 3.9 Preparation of district profile 3.10 Conclusion Chapter 4: District Objectives 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7

Purpose of this chapter Layout of this chapter Identification of potentials and opportunities Identification of problems and gaps Consulting panchayat institutions in the district Cross-checking data Ranking potentials, problems and needs

0

4.8 4.9 4.10

Transmitting the rank ordered list to District Planning Committee and/or district level Panchayat Objectives statement Conclusion

Chapter 5: Analysis of Programmes and Schemes 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.10

Purpose of this chapter Layout of this chapter Sources of data Analysing a programme or scheme for consistency Consistency with environmental requirements Analysis of capacity for expansion Block disparity analysis Analysis of linkage effects Adjustment in programmes and schemes Conclusion

Chapter 6: Planning New Projects 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 6.8

Purpose of this chapter Project identification Prioritising project ideas Designing a new project Analysing project feasibility Financial analysis Environmental analysis Conclusion

Chapter 7: Financing the Plan 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6

7.7

Purpose of this chapter Layout of the chapter The process of financing Estimation of financial resources Estimation of financial requirements Allocation of funds

Conclusion

Chapter 8: Putting the Plan into Practice 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6

Purpose of this chapter Layout of the chapter Operationalising the planning process Laying out the plan Negotiating and reaching an agreement on the plan Conclusion

1

Table of Formats Chapter 3 3.1 3.2

Land and agricultural resources matrix Block disparity analysis form

3.3

Trend data table

Chapter 4 4.1 4.2 4.3

4.4

Cumulative listing of potentials, problems, needs and gaps Proforma for statements of needs from Gram Sabhas Prioritising potentials, problems and needs

Identifying objectives

Chapter 5 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6

Consistency table layout Checklist of environmental concerns Checklist for expansion Block disparity table Linkage table Programme adjustment table

Chapter 6 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4

Logical framework table Cash flow table Checklist of environmental concerns Environmental impact assessment table

Chapter 7 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4A 7.4B 7.5 7.6

Financial resources table Credit review Financial review Total direct requirement Total financial requirement Allocation of funds table Major sectoral outlay by blocks

2

Acronyms

AO ARI EDO BPC CAZRI DIG DPC DPCC DRDA DWCRA ETA FAO FSS HCM RIPA HYV IAY ICAR ICDS IRDP JRY km

LBS LQs and LQ(G) MFC NFE NIRD NSS PAC PHC PWD SC/ST SCDC SFC SRS SSI(s)

STC TRYSEM U.P. VLW

Approved Outlay Average Return on Investment Block Development Officer Block Planning Committee Central Arid Zone Research Institute District Industries Centre District Planning Cell District Planning and Coordination Council/Committee District Rural Development Agency Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas Environmental Impact Assessment Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations Farmers Service Societies Hari Chandra Mathur Rajasthan Institute of Public Administration High Yielding Variety Indira Awaas Yojana Indian Council for Agricultural Research Integrated Child Development Schemes Integrated Rural Development Programme Jawahar Rozgar Yojana kilometre Lai Bahadur Shastri Academy Location Quotients (Growth) Municipal Planning Committee Non-Formal Education National Institute of Rural Development National Sample Survey Primary Agricultural Credit Societies Primary Health Centre Public Works Department Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe Scheduled Caste Development Corporation State Finance Commission Sample Registration System Small Scale Industry (ies) State Transport Corporation Training of Rural Youth for Self Employment Uttar Pradesh Village Level Worker 3

PREFACE

This Manual on District Planning has been prepared as part of a collaborative project between the Government of India and FAO. The project arose out of a felt need for a straightforward, readable and above all usable set of guidelines for district functionaries, planning practitioners and trainers as well as others directly or indirectly involved in planning at the District level. The project was conceived from the start as a participative learning process with several stages. In the first stage expert practitioners, researchers and trainers were commissioned to prepare material for different sections of the manual based upon [he experience of their institutions. Participants in ihis phase were: Dr Raj Bala and Mr Vinod Zutshi (HCM Rajasthan Institute of Public Administration, Jaipur) Ms Aneetha Benninger (Centre for Development Studies and Activities, Pune) Professor R.N Chattopadhyay, B.C Chattopadhyay, C.R Pathak and Dr Chandreyee Das (Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur) Dr S.P Jain (National Institute of Rural Development, Hyderabad) Dr Ramachandran Pillai and Dr M.A Oomen (Institute of Management Thiruvananthapuram)

in Government,

Dr Om Prakash and Dr. J, George (National Institute of Rural Development. Hyderabad) Professor A.K Sengupta (University of Lucknow) The second stage brought these contributors along with trainers drawn from other institutions to a workshop in Mussoorie in July 1994 at which the material was systematically reworked and redrafted. After further revision three training courses for practitioners were undertaken, at the University of Lucknow (Professor Sengupta and Dr. P.N. Sharma), at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (Professor Chattopadhyay and Dr. Das) and at the National Institute of Rural Development Hyderabad (Dr. Orn Prakash and Dr. Jacob George). These workshops led to the production of relevant training materials and to useful feedback from district planners, The final stage brought Dr. Raj Bala, Dr. Das, Dr. N. Sivanna and Mr, P. Michael Vetha Siro Mony to Birmingham U.K where Volume I was further revised and Volume 2. the Teaching Guide was written, The project has been coordinated in India by Professor H. Ramachandran at LBS National Academy of Administration. Mussoorie. Professor Ramachandran's immediate predecessor, Professor Amitabha Mukherjee was instrumental in formulating the project and guiding its early stages. Dr J.R Watson and Dr Donald Curtis (University of Birmingham, U.K) have acted as consultants to FAO on the project. Ms Maria G. Quieti (FAO, Rome) has acted as technical supervisor throughout the project.

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CHAPTER 1 PURPOSE OF THIS GUIDE

1.1

Many district plans have been prepared in India but an effective district level planning process has not been firmly established

The need for decentralised planning has been recognised by Government for some time and a number of reports have been prepared to guide district planners. The most important of these is the Report of the Committee on District Planning (Hanumantha Rao Committee) of 1984. The guidelines contained in this and other reports have still to be generally adopted. Most plans in the past have been prepared by compiling departmental and similar programme targets for the district into a single volume, sometimes with a preface which describes the district and the contribution government programmes will make to its development. Plans of this kind have been useful as a means of coordinating programmes across the whole range of sectors and as a way of monitoring achievement. But they have a number of shortcomings. The most important is that they do not for the most part attempt to identify clear objectives for the district and tailor programmes to suit. Rather, they concentrate on the implementation of central or State planned programmes. Change is now in prospect. The Constitutional Amendments will mean the transfer of important responsibilities to panchayat councils and municipalities. The 73rd amendment envisages that panchayats may be empowered by their State legislatures to prepare "plans for economic development and social justice" which may include up to 29 subjects including agriculture, small scale industry, health, education and poverty alleviation. Carrying out these responsibilities will place a heavy burden of decision making upon locally elected officials as well as the Government officers who advise them and who have to implement the ultimate decisions. Planning - which means deciding what is best to be done and where - will be an important way of helping elected officials and their advisors. But if planning is to work, methods of planning need to be worked out and planners need to be trained in them. These are the reasons for this Manual which comprises two Guides: a Planning Guide and a Training Guide. The first of these Guides - the Planning Guide - has been prepared by a team of specialists from institutions throughout India with one simple aim: to help district functionaries to prepare a better district plan. 1.2

A better district plan has five important characteristics: • it is simple to read and can be easily explained if necessary to many different kinds of audience. 5

• it is logical. The reader can easily see how the planner has worked to produce proposals that are sensible in the light of the information available. • it takes the social and economic facts of the district into account. Decision makers can see that the plan is a common sense attempt to deal with the local situation, o This means trying to identify what opportunities there are for development, what are the district's problems, what are its needs and what sort of gaps exist in the provision of public services. o It also means trying to plan development in a way that fills gaps in the existing provision of services (for example, education) and also which helps the private sector to generate employment and incomes. • it takes account of local felt needs. It is often said that decentralisation places power in the hands of local politicians. This may be so but it is also true that politicians must take account of the problems and wishes of the people who elect them. Consequently, a better district plan is one which depends upon local consultation to identify people's needs and one which is approved by and gains the commitment of local representatives. • it is practical. Not many districts can plan with a clean slate. Planning must begin with ongoing schemes and programmes, and adjust them where possible to fit better a district's potentials and felt needs. This Guide is primarily aimed at those district level functionaries who are responsible for plan preparation and those who will train them. However, it has been written as far as possible so that others, whether people's representatives or the ordinary citizen, can see and understand how planning is done. Consequently, the emphasis is upon simple and practical procedures that produce useful results. Much reliance is placed upon the use of simple tables as a way of collecting and analysing information. Tables suit normal government procedures and are also easily computerised. Complicated methods and particularly those which rely on mathematics have been avoided as far as possible.

6

CHAPTER 2 HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

2.1

Introduction

The Manual as a whole has two parts: a Planning Guide and a Training Guide. • The Planning Guide is intended for district level planners and other concerned officers who are responsible for the production of a district plan. It is designed to be a simple and self-contained set of guidelines to planning that can be used (if necessary) without prior training. • The Training Guide is intended for trainers from national and State level institutions who will be responsible for designing and implementing short training courses for district level staff. It is designed to help trainers to plan and run a course and provides case study and other material in support. 2.2

The layout of the Planning Guide

The Planning Guide follows the planning cycle. The planning cycle describes the series of steps that planners go through in the production of a plan. These are: • the collection of data about the area or people to be planned for. Some of these data are statistical; other kinds of information can be obtained from people themselves or panchayat or other bodies. All types of information may be needed; • the analysis of data to find out what are the problems, opportunities and needs of the area or people to be planned for; • deciding upon the objectives of the plan. In other words, deciding what the plan should try to achieve; • reviewing and adjusting where possible district level programmes to enable the strategy to be achieved; • identifying new projects or schemes where there are clear needs and the district has discretionary funds available; • planning financial allocations to enable the plan to be put into operation: • putting the plan into practice: helping concerned authorities to discuss the plan and sanction it, breaking the plan down into action plans for annual programmes and negotiating implementation with concerned departments.

7

Each chapter of the Planning Guide contains one or more of these steps. The key to using the Guide is to work systematically through each step, following the procedures in each chapter as closely as possible. Remember that each chapter contributes to the one that follows it and it is difficult to take methods or procedures out of their context. However, the circumstances under which plans are prepared vary widely and the planner should be prepared to adjust his/her approach if necessary to suit the local situation. 2.3

The presentation of material on the pages of the Guide

Each chapter is laid out in the same way. Firstly, it is divided into sections. Each section carries its own number, for example 3.3. This is to facilitate reference. The first two sections are introductory. The first, which is called Purpose of the Chapter, introduces the user to the particular step or steps that the chapter deals with. The second section, the Layout of the Chapter gives a breakdown of contents. The remaining sections present the content of the chapter. Normally all the page is used; but where a procedure which breaks down into a number of steps is being described, each step is shown separately, thus - Step 1: Lists of every kind are inset with each item prefixed by the symbol ▪. Sub-lists are further inset with each sub-item prefixed by the symbol o. 2.4

Definitions

Unavoidably, a number of technical terms have to be introduced from time to time. When it is not obvious from the Guide precisely what they mean, a definition is given in a box for easy reference. To illustrate this, a definition for a District Plan follows: Definition District Plan A District Plan describes what a district will try to achieve' over the medium term, often five years, and how it intends to achieve it. A Plan usually contains an analysis of the current situation of the district and particularly its needs and potentials, ft should also contain a statement of objectives and an analysis of ongoing and new schemes and programmes within the district's purview. It should be accompanied by a financial plan and an action plan. These last two, which are operational plans, will need continued updating.

8

Examples are given where practicable to illustrate the material, taken from experience drawn throughout India. These are always prefaced by the terms for example or e.g. So, if the Planning Guide is talking about poverty alleviation schemes, it could say: for example the IRDP, TRYSEM and JRY schemes of the Central Government or

e.g. IRDP

However examples are sometimes not enough, particularly where methods and techniques are involved. So, the accompanying Training Guide provides exercises and case studies designed to give additional practice in the techniques involved. 2.5

Matrices, tables and formats

This manual is based as far as possible upon the use of simple tables, matrices and formats to collect and analyse information. This approach has been adopted for two reasons: • most Government officers are familiar with them • they lend themselves easily to computerisation. When they are first introduced, the tables or formats are given in blank form which can be easily copied for use. These can be identified by the heading Format and a number e.g. Format 4.3 However, they are often shown used with data and in this case they will be headed Illustration. The following illustration shows how financial figures could be entered into a table of financial sources for the agriculture and allied sectors.

Illustration Sources of funds for agriculture and allied sectors

Sources of Funds (Rs lakhs) Institutional Local mobilfinance isation

Centre/ State

District

Agriculture

120

60

1200

60

30

Irrigation

100

50

900

90

0

Forestry

50

25

10

10

0

Sector

Public enterprise

Of course this is only an incomplete example and you should tucn to Chapter 7 for a complete account. 9

2.6

How to use the Guide

This Guide is designed to produce a medium-term perspective district plan (approximately five years) which can continually be updated. This perspective plan contains basic data about the district, an analysis of its potentials, problems, needs and gaps, objectives in relation to the foregoing and proposed adjustments to ongoing programmes and new schemes. The Guide also shows how to prepare a financing plan which will take the above into account. This financing plan, together with an action plan, will need to be done annually. There are several rules to follow when using this Guide to prepare these plans: ƒ

Firstly, planning has to be done within the calendar of district operations, Consequently, it is important to try to find out when plans have to be prepared by and for whom, and work back from there to the various steps that have to be followed. For example, in Dehra Dun district in U.P, financial ceilings for departments are notified at the beginning of October. The old style draft district plan has then to be prepared in November for submission to the State Government. If these dates were to continue, then it is clear that the planner must work through most of the Guide in the first half of the financial year to produce the district plan. Once a strategy has been chosen and ongoing programmes analysed (see Chapters 4 and 5), financial ceilings can then be taken into account in November when preparing financing (Chapter 7) and action plans for the forthcoming year (Chapter 8).

ƒ

The early steps all require statistical data or consultation with departments, panchayats or people. Arranging for the collection of data and organising consultation all need to be planned well in advance. Remember too that collecting information costs money and time can be wasted if requests for data are excessive or respondents are asked vague or difficult to answer questions.

ƒ

It is important to keep concerned functionaries and peoples' representatives at district level informed about the progress of the plan. The process described in this Guide clearly specifies when consultation is necessary: but it is also valuable to seek opinions and guidance as frequently as possible from all involved. This reduces the possibility that the district will treat the plan as something that has been "cooked up" by specialists without informing all concerned and in a way that is not helpful to district concerns.

ƒ

Work systematically through the steps. If data or other kinds of information are not available or are known to be inaccurate, it may still be possible to complete the tables or proformas and come to a reasonable conclusion.

ƒ

The resulting District Plan should be laid out as clearly as possible in the form described in Chapter 8. Remember that it will need to be agreed by the concerned authorities in the district, and Chapter 8 also lays out some advice on negotiating techniques. Annual financial and action plans should be written in a way that conforms with the District Plan as far as possible. 10

CHAPTER 3 DISTRICT ANALYSIS

3.1

Purpose of this chapter

The first task in the preparation of a district plan is the collection of information about the resources available in the district. Such an analysis is expected to show: ƒ the current physical, economic and social situation ƒ the diversities and disparities in the district ƒ trends in the district economy

which will make it possible in a later chapter to: ƒ ƒ ƒ

assess the poverty and employment situation identify development potentials and gaps in infrastructural provision as revealed by secondary data.

Definition Diversities and disparities Diversities are those characteristics that help to distinguish bet\veen districts quickly and effectively. For example a district may be differentiated by its predominant crop, by features such as hill district, plain district and so on. Disparities refer to inequalities between districts and are based on quantitative values, for example, high density of population contrasted with low density or high income level contrasted with low income level.

Definition Infrastructure The word infrastructure refers to facilities that contribute to development directly such as roads, irrigation or power; or indirectly through education and health facilities. The latter are sometimes called the social infrastructure or more simply social services.

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This chapter outlines the various steps involved in one practical and comprehensive approach to district analysis. 3.2

Layout of the chapter

Several stages are involved in carrying out a district analysis. Each stage is dealt with in this chapter by separate sections as follows: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

assembling a district data matrix for the current year (section 3.3) analysing the district data matrix for block level disparities (section 3.4) calculating trends for important variables (sections 3.5 and 3.6) preparation of district summary tables (section 3.7) preparation of base maps (section 3.8) preparation of a district profile (section 3.9)

3.3 Assembling a district data matrix Data about a district is available in a wide variety of forms. One of the simplest ways of organizing data so that it can be analysed is the matrix. Definition Matrix from A matrix, (plural - matrices) is a way of defining pieces of information visually and mathematically. The simplest way of thinking about it is in the form of a table. A table usually has a classification or list down the left hand side and a set of variables along the top. A variable is the thing being measured, e.g. population, man-days of employment generated, distance of metallic roads. For example we could tabulate the provision of schools by block with a classification of schools along the top (primary, secondary etc) and a list of blocks on the left hand side. Each cell of the resulting grid contains a piece of information, e.g. block Patnagar contains 5 primary schools and 1 secondary school. Each row describes a block in terms of a number of variables and each column describes inter-block variations in a particular variable. This format of information can easily be used in calculations of different types of aggregate measures, e.g. how many primary schools are there in the district; how many primary schools feed a secondary school? All of the matrices we will deal with in this section are in table form. So why not call it a table ? The answer is that many tables will follow later as a way of analysing the data and there is a strong case for a special term to describe the original format in which data is collected.

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There are several steps in preparing the district data matrix. Step 1: collect the data necessary under four headings: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

land, agricultural and allied resources human resources infrastructure and services industry

Most of the following information can be obtained from the concerned district offices or the District Statistical cell. Other information may be taken from the appropriate State level department or State corporation head office. The Census is an important source of population data. In addition to demographic data it gives useful information on infrastructure and services found in the village and town directory of the District Census Handbooks. Data should be collected not only for the current (or most recent year) but also for previous years. Thus, one matrix will contain information relating to one point of time. Exactly how previous years' information should be used will be discussed later. What data should be collected ? One of the great weaknesses in the past has been the tendency of planners to collect too much information. Plans have been buried under a flood of data, much of it irrelevant to the task of deciding what to do. There is a golden rule, sometimes called the need-to-know principle. This principle states that we should only collect data if: ƒ we are reasonably certain it will be used in the analysis ƒ we need the data in order to explain the plan to others.

Obviously, it is difficult to be exact about what is needed without actually getting involved in the process. So, the following list is offered as a guide to start with. It shows what sort of data is needed and why it is important. District planners should treat it with flexibility, adding or omitting items from it if necessary: ƒ

heading 1 - land, agricultural and allied resources: o land - total area of the district, net cultivated area, pasture, current fallows, forested area, wasteland. This data will show whether there is room for the expansion of cultivation and where. o number of land holdings - subdivided into different size classes. This data will show the degree of inequality in land distribution and average size of land holdings and what kind of agricultural programmes are likely to work best. o cropping pattern and production - gross cropped area, percentage of double/multiple cropped area, area and output of selected main crops. This data will be used to analyse trends in production in a later section. 13

o livestock - number of buffaloes, cows, goats and pigs: quantum and value of production, particularly dairy. o land, water and other natural resources - adversely affected by development; area affected by salination, degraded forest, falling water table, etc. This data will be used to assess environmental problems. ƒ

heading 2 - human resources o settlement and population - number of towns and inhabited villages. number of gram panchayats, population sub-divided into rural, urban, SC/ST population and density of population. This data will be used to identity trends from which the demand for services can be estimated. o employment - subdivided into cultivators, agricultural labourers, household industries, services, industrial and other workers. o poverty distribution - subdivided into numbers beneath the poverty line and those classified in extreme poverty. This data can be used to find out trends in the incidence of poverty.

ƒ

heading 3 - infrastructure o drinking water supply - protected/piped water supplies, handpumps, other sources. This data can be used to identify further needs for drinking water. o irrigation - potential groundwater resources, net irrigated area, mode of irrigation (eg number of tubewells, dugwells, tanks and length of canals). This data will show the current level of irrigation and whether there is possibility for expansion. o transport and communications - length of metallic, non-metallic and kutcha roads, length of railway track, number of post and telegraph offices. This data can be used to show whether there are any obvious gaps in provision. o banking facilities - number of banks, subdivided into commercial, cooperative and regional rural banks. o cooperatives - broken down into primary agricultural credit societies (PAC) and farmers' service societies (FSS). o markets - regulated markets, wholesale and primary markets, mandis and hats. o health services - district hospitals, primary health centres, subcentres and dispensaries. This data can be used to show whether there are any obvious gaps in provision.

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o educational services - primary schools (lower and upper), secondary schools, colleges and vocational training institutions. This data can be used to show whether there are needs for setting up schools or other institutions. o women's and children's services - mahila mandals, balwadis, anganwadis.

heading 4 - industry categorised by sectors. Show the number of firms in each sector and if possible employment. This data will be used in subsequent trend analysis. Classification into the following sectors is recommended:

ƒ

o forest-based industry o mining and quarrying o medium and small scale industries (SSIs) including household, cottage, khadi and village handicraft industries o construction activities o trade including retail and wholesale enterprises o transport and communications including local bus and taxi operations o services including administration, banking, education, health and sanitation. Step 2: construct the data matrix forms. The planner will need to construct four of these, one for each data heading e.g. land and agriculture. It is wise to use large sheets, folded if necessary. The size of each matrix varies slightly depending upon how many blocks and variables need to be accommodated. ƒ

The number of rows depends upon the number of blocks in the district. For example Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh has 16 blocks. Therefore allocate a title row, 16 block rows and a district summary row i.e. 18 rows.

ƒ

The number of columns depends upon the data heading. As a guide allow the following: o matrix 1 (land, agriculture and allied activities) - up to 30 columns o matrix 2 (human resources) - up to 20 columns o matrix 3 (infrastructure) - up to 30 columns o matrix 4 (industry) - up to 20 columns.

but remember that this may need to be adjusted to the requirements of the particular district. Format 3.1 shows how the matrix should be laid out for the first five variables of the land and agriculture data matrix in the case of a small district with five blocks.

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Format 3.1 Land and agricultural resources matrix block name

total area (ha)

net cultivated area (ha)

pasture (ha)

fallows (ha)

forest (ha)

waste (ha)

district total Step 3: enter data into the appropriate columns for each block. In some cases this is straightforward. However in other cases it should he noted that some variables such as population, workers in different sectors, etc. cannot be easily entered for the current year. This is because a large part of this data would come from census data. Consequently they must be shown with the appropriate year clearly identified. Always remember to sum district totals at the end of each column. The outcome of this stage of the work is a series of four matrix formats which show blockwise the most important planning data about the district. This is the raw material upon which the district plan will he based. 3.4

Identifying block level disparities

The next stage of the analysis involves using the district matrix to identify disparities between blocks. Obviously there will always be differences between the blocks in a district: some will have higher populations, others will be more fertile and have higher agricultural productivity. Sometimes however a block may have done badly because: ƒ

its natural resources have still to be fully exploited

ƒ

it has not yet received a full range of government services

ƒ

it lacks the infrastructure needed to exploit its potentials

ƒ

it has lagged behind in the provision of social services, e.g. health and education.

16

The simplest approach to the measurement of disparities is to compare each block's performance to the average for the district. If it is below the district average, then there is a case for finding out why and whether the district plan should attempt to rectify matters. In many cases of course there may be good reasons for the disparity, but it is important to establish the cause. The following procedure involves the preparation of block level disparity tables for each of the variables in the district matrix.

Step 1: prepare the forms for block level disparity tables One of these should be prepared for each block. The format for these (see Format 3.2) is as follows:

ƒ

basic data for the block and district is headed at the top. This is here for the sake of convenience in calculations and can be dispensed with if necessary.

ƒ

one column is allocated to each of the variables of the district data matrix. Four are shown here. These might be population or the number of primary schools within the district.

ƒ

the first row is used for the block level data for each variable, e.g. total children enrolled in primary school in the block.

ƒ

the second row is used for the district total.

ƒ

the third row is used for blockwise average. The blockwise average is calculated by dividing the district total by the number of blocks.

ƒ

the fourth, fifth and sixth rows are used to calculate disparities. There are three kinds of disparity that are relevant, and the planner must use his judgment to decide which to calculate. In some cases more than one measure is useful.

o the numerical disparity is the difference between the block data and the blockwise average for variables that can be counted, e.g. area, population, number of cattle, number of dugwells. o the percentage disparity per unit area relates the data to the area of the district and block respectively. o the percentage disparity per unit population relates the data to the populations of the district and block respectively.

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Format 3.2 Block disparity analysis form District name Number of blocks Population (lakhs) variable 1

Block name Area (ha) Area (ha)

variable 3

variable 2

variable 4

block data district total blockwise average numerical disparity disparity per unit area (%) disparity per unit of population (%)

Step 2: fill in the data and calculate disparities ƒ

begin by entering the appropriate block and district level area and population data.

ƒ

then enter the variable names from the district data matrix.

ƒ

enter the block data and then the district total from the district data matrix: calculate the blockwise average by dividing the district total by the number of blocks.

ƒ

calculate the numerical disparity by subtracting the block data from the blockwise average. Show this with the appropriate plus or minus sign.

ƒ

calculate the percentage disparity per unit area by the following formula:

ƒ

percentage disparity per unit area = (block data/area of the block) x 100)/(district total/area of the district)

ƒ

calculate the percentage disparity per unit population by the following formula:

ƒ

percentage disparity per unit population = (block data/population of the block) x 100)/(district total/population of the district).

18

This procedure is illustrated by an example from Bidar district, Karnataka: Illustration

The use of Format 3.2 Block disparities in public services District name: Bidar Number of blocks: 5 Area (ha): 5458 number primary schools

Block name: Aurad Area (ha): 1224 Population (lakhs): 2.1 number number health commercial centres banks

number post offices

block data

8

8

205

43

district total

55

40

976

176

blockwise average

11

8

195

-3

0

+ 10

disparity per unit area (%)

64

89

88

disparity per unit population (%)

88

118

124

numerical disparity

35 +8

109

143 '

What does this table show ? The disparity indices of Aurad block imply that it lags behind in terms of primary school facilities. However it is well above the district average in facilities like post offices and commercial banks, particularly so when these are compared to population size. 3.5

Constructing tables for previous years to enable trends to be analysed

Data collected over a number of years is essential for analyzing future trends in agriculture. human resources and the development of infrastructure. Is agricultural output increasing and where? Are more people going below poverty line ? These are the sort of questions that can be answered through the analysis of trends.

19

Definition Trend A future trend is a prediction of the change in a variable, e.g. wheat output or number of children enrolled in primary school. This is often based on information about previous years. Using the golden principle of need-to-know we need first to decide what trends are important. This is covered in the first step which follows: Step 1: decide what trends need to be predicted. Within the areas of responsibility of district level authorities (including those functions transferred to panchayats and municipalities by the Constitutional Amendment) a number of trends seem to be of particular importance. These are: ƒ

trends in agricultural output especially for main crops. This should be examined both in terms of the area under each crop and actual output.

ƒ

trends in the nature of industrial development.

ƒ trends in population growth. This should be divided into urban and rural population. ƒ trends in employment. ƒ trends in poverty. ƒ trends in environment.

Before working out trends however, it is important to understand some of the limitations inherent in the method and the data available. Agricultural output: while figures for this are usually readily available, it should be remembered that estimates for some crops (notably subsistence crops) are rather unreliable. Output figures for any one year tend to be affected by rainfall and (sometimes) the availability of inputs. Consequently, it is wise to choose figures for years that are as "typical as possible" or are not affected by unusual fluctuations (the concerned department will advise on this). Remember that trends in agricultural output tend to be rather difficult to interpret, at least in the long run. This is because:

20

ƒ

unlike industrial output there are resource and technological limitations on increases in production. Actual trends in production may well tail off and calculations can easily over-estimate performance.

ƒ

trends tend to be interactive: that is, increases in one crop ultimately have an effect on others in that it takes over their land and labour inputs. This can actually emphasise trends in the long run.

Industrial structure and output: data on the number of firms in a district is usually available with the District Industrial Centre (DIG). Many cottage, handicraft and small scale industry firms will have received support from Government programmes or State corporations, and data will be available. However, it is inevitable that some firms, particularly household level ones, are not covered by the statistics. Population trends are usually based upon the decennial Census figures. Other important sources are the National Sample Survey (NSS) and an innovative system called the Sample Registration System (SRS) which collects on a sample basis births and deaths, Employment trends are difficult to measure. This is due to several reasons: ƒ

while some individuals are permanently in wage employment, others move in and out of the wage economy as opportunities permit. This movement is often seasonal.

ƒ

it can be difficult to distinguish work or economic activities from household activities in rural areas.

There are several sources for these types of data. The DIC in the district is one. Another approach is to use the Census and particularly the District Handbook (village and town-wise primary census abstract). This will give employment figures by categories. The 1971 Census used nine categories of employment pattern but these were reduced in 1981 and expanded again in 1991. The net effect of these changes for analysis can be summarised as follows; ƒ

for the following categories, the 1981 and 1991 Census figures must be used as a basis for trend estimation: o o o o

ƒ

cultivators (category I) agricultural labourers (category II) household industry (category Va in 1971, category III in 1981) marginal workers.

for the following categories, the 1971 and 1991 Census figures must be used: o workers in forestry, livestock, fishing, hunting, plantation and allied activities (category III) o workers in mining and quarrying (category IV) o workers in manufacturing other than household industry (category Vb) o construction workers (category VI) o workers in trade and commerce (category VII) 21

o workers in transport, storage and communication (category VIII) o other services (category IX).

Trends in poverty in the district. The important measure of this is the number of families below the poverty line (see definition below). The District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) will normally have this information. However, much of it can be out of date because it depends upon surveys carried out in the 1980s and subsequently added to in a piecemeal fashion. The definition of the poverty line has also been altered from time to time. It is necessary, therefore, to update this information, to start with by Rapid Rural Appraisals using the current definition of poverty. This is best done at village panchayat level and collated at block level. Definition The poverty line The poverty line is a measure of a consumption level of goods and services. If a person or family consume less than this level they are considered poor. In India, the poverty line is based upon the idea of a basket of minimum needs for an individual. This basket is broken down into food and non-food items. An individual's minimum need for food is computed on the basis of a calorific requirement - currently 2100 kilocalories per day in the rural areas and 2400 kilocalories per day in urban areas. Non-food needs are identified with the help of NSS data. Both food and non-food needs are then converted into a cash equivalent. This is currently (1995) Rs 540 per capita per month for rural and urban areas combined together. Trends in environment in the district. A number of measures are required for accurate identification of environmental change, whether this be soil erosion, salination of soils, agrochemical pollution of water courses or atmospheric change. Usually the bench-mark data are not available. In consequence indirect assessment may have to be relied upon; otherwise damage may reach catastrophic proportions before action is taken. ƒ

direct measures such as soil loss quantities measure the variable itself while the indirect indicator of the same variable might be a decline in crop yield. In the absence of records the statements of local residents or affected persons may be taken.

ƒ

expert opinion from both concerned line departments and from relevant scientific institutions or informed voluntary bodies may be consulted.

22

Step 2: prepare a table for earlier years for selected variables The district data matrix will give us all the data we need on the current situation. However, most methods of calculating trends require that we obtain information for earlier years. The rate of change between those earlier years and the present provides the basis for a prediction of the future. Consequently, the next step is to gather these data for earlier years and plot it. Since only five trends are involved, the amount of data required is relatively less and we can use a simple table (see Format 3.3). One table per trend will be adequate. Which previous years should be chosen ? Some data is only available for years widely spaced apart for example the Census which is only taken every ten years (the last was in 1991). Consequently, it is best to use quite a wide span between the years chosen. One recommended approach would be to prepare data matrices for about five years ago and about ten years ago. The reason for being approximate is that it is not essential that the same years be used for each variable - they can be mixed a little. The layout of the table resembles the district data matrix as in section 3.4 above, that is, blockwise on the left and variable on the top. However, it is much smaller and simpler. Format 3.3 below is laid out for two variables (which could be staple crops, say wheat or rice) entered for two time periods t1 and t2 (which could be 1988 and 1993 or any other two years' recordings available). It does not matter if figures are only available for different pairs of years (for example 1987 and 1993 for wheat, 1988 and 1993 for rice) - the trends are calculated separately. The format is laid out for three blocks and a district total is also entered. Step 3: enter the data This should be done in the same way as in the district data matrix. Format 3.3 Trend data table block name

variable 1 for tl

variable 1 for t2

district total

23

variable 2 for tl

variable 2 for t2

3.6 Analysis of trends A first rule is that, if a forecast has been done for the trends in question by some competent authority, then it should be used. Examples of competent authorities include: national level bodies, e.g. Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Central Arid Zone Research Institute (C AZRI) , National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD) universities, agricultural universities concerned State departments, e.g. agriculture, small scale industry, employment reputable research institutions.

ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

If such forecasts are not available, the planner must do the work himself/herself. By the end of section 3.5, the planner should have data for at least two different years for the trends under study. These figures must now be used to forecast a future date, usually five or ten years distant. There are two different methods, one rather more complicated than the other, that can be used. ƒ ƒ

forecasting by simple extrapolation (method 1) forecasting by compound rate of growth calculation (method 2).

Method (1) Simple extrapolation Simple extrapolation takes the rate of change between the two or more year for which data is available and projects it forward. Say that production of wheat in a block in 1986 is W86 and in 1991 is W91. Then the percentage rate of change over five years is given by: (W91 - W86)/W86 The same methods can be used for other variables. Method (2) Compound rate of growth Another method is to apply the compound rate of growth formula. Say that the population of a district in 1981 is PS1 and the population in 1991 is Py|, r is the annual growth rate over the period 1981-1991 and t is the number of years to be forecast. Then P91 =P81 (1+r) 10 and r in this case can be worked out by: r = antilog ((log P91 - log Pgl)/10) - 1 24

The following illustrations apply these methods to data from Midnapore district in West Bengal. Illustration Forecasting population growth by extrapolation Assuming the population figures for Midnapore district in West Bengal in 1981 and 1991 to be 674,796 and 834,890 respectively, the population for the year 2000 can be obtained by: r = (834,890 - 674,976)/674,796 = 0.237 This is an annual rate of 0.237/10 or 2.37%. This can be applied very simply to the 1991 figure of 834,890 by multiplying it ten times by the coefficient 1.0237. This yields a 2001 forecast of 1,032,758.

Illustration Forecasting population growth by compound rate of growth formula If the 1981 population of Midnapore was 674,976 and the 1991 population was 834,890 then: r - antilog ((log 834890 - log 674976)710) - 1 r = antilog ((5.9217 - 5.8293)/10) - 1 r = antilog(0.0924/10) - 1 = 0.021 p.a or 2.1% Therefore if we multiply our 1991 starting figure of 834,890 by 2.1 % p.a we get a 2001 estimate of 1,027,748. Both methods have two advantages: ƒ

they can be applied to the variable as a whole or broken down by sex or urban/rural division. Breakdown is particularly useful in the latter case because in many parts of India the urban population is increasing faster than the rural.

ƒ

they do not depend upon any assumptions about fertility, mortality or migration. These latter depend in turn upon an effective civil registration system and unfortunately (although the system is in place) many people do not get births or deaths registered.

25

3.7

Preparation of district summary tables

The next stage is to prepare district summary tables. These should be prepared separately for: ƒ

the current district situation. The data here can he taken from the district data matrix and should cover the following variables: o o o o o

land use: irrigated, non-irrigated, fallow, forest and waste agricultural and livestock production by main crop or livestock product industrial firms by number, by size and sector employment by sector poverty in the district

ƒ major district trends. The data here can be taken from the trend analysis in section 3.6.

In the case of districts with large number of blocks the summary tables may become unwieldy. In such situations it is worthwhile to group together a number of blocks based on similarities in their characteristics, for example, tribals blocks, hill areas, or any other suitable characteristics. 3.8

Preparation of base maps

The purpose of the base maps is to represent basic information about the district in a way that is simpler and easier to understand than text or tables. Only certain kinds of information can be shown in this way. Nevertheless, the details of relief, drainage, underground water, soil types, vegetation, population distribution, distribution of infrastructure such as roads and railways can all be more effectively and efficiently represented in maps. A map shows clearly where things are and how they are related in terms of location, distance and distribution throughout the district. These are questions that are bound to be raised when discussing or negotiating a plan with representative bodies or concerned individuals. There are several steps in preparing base maps. Step 1: Obtain the right 1:50.000 map sheets for the district. These may already be present in the district headquarters. If not, they may be obtained from the Survey of India unless restricted areas are covered in which case special permission may need to be taken. If 1:50,000 sheets are not available, it may be possible to obtain 1:100,000 scale sheets which can also be used.

26

Definition Map scales Maps are drawn in a number of scales. Scale is the relationship between the actual distance on the ground between two points and the representation of that distance on the map sheet. For example the distance in a straight line between Theog and Kufri in Himachal Pradesh is about 10 km. On a 1:50,000 map sheet the measurable distance between them will be shown as 10,000 (the real distance in metres) divided by 50,000 (the map scale) which equals 20 cm.

Step 2: Decide what the base maps are going to show. Probably the most important things from the point of view of district planning are: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

relief and drainage land use settlement pattern roads, railways public services i.e schools, hospitals etc. administrative boundaries population density areas of particular environmental vulnerability

Step 3: Construct a working map for each of these using the 1:50,000 sheet. It will be an advantage if a technically qualified person (draughtsman, tracer) does this. Otherwise it can be done by the planner. Tracing paper or tracing film is the easiest way to do this. Take the 1:50,000 map as a bottom sheet and lay an equivalent size of paper or film on top of it. Then construct working map copies as follows: ƒ

relief and drainage - copy the boundaries of hill areas. It may be useful to use a contour (line connecting all points of equal height) as a way of defining such areas. Rivers and streams can be copied directly. Also include canals and other major irrigation works.

ƒ

land use - a simple breakdown into irrigated land, dry cultivated land, waste and forest is all that is usually required. Cultivated and wooded areas can be taken from the survey sheet but the other information should be taken from the concerned department, usually the Department of Agriculture.

ƒ

settlement pattern - may be taken from the survey map but remember that the actual survey may have been done some years ago and there has been subsequent growth. roads, railways and other transport facilities - may be taken from the survey sheet and updated it" necessary.

ƒ

27

ƒ

public utilities and services - may be taken from the survey sheet and updated if necessary. Remember to include a wide range of facilities including: o hospitals and clinics o schools, colleges and non-formal education (NFE) centres o panchayat buildings

ƒ

administrative boundaries - may be taken from the survey map but should be checked with the concerned authority. Include block boundaries if possible. The State Election Commissions for Panchayats and Municipalities would be able to provide this.

ƒ

population density - may be calculated for each block with reference to the Census of India records. Some form of shading or cross-hatching is a useful way of representing density.

ƒ

environmental vulnerability - should be identified for particular variables by consulting concerned authorities, voluntary organisations or individual experts.

Step 4: Once working maps have been produced, these need to be reduced and printed on a usable scale so that they can be read together with the plan document. If the plan is to be foolscap in size then a single foolscap map might be the right approach. If metric sizes are to be used, A4 (or possibly A3 doubled over) will be the right size. Reduction and printing of the maps can now be done by many technical departments (e.g PWD or Irrigation) or by commercial agencies. The result of this section is a series of maps showing the main features of the district as a whole. 3.9

Preparation of district profile

Using the outputs of the previous stages, a short (three page) district profile, should be written.

28

Definition District profile A district profile is a brief but comprehensive account of a district's geography, economy and social structure. It has two purposes: it gives readers new to the district the necessary background to enable them to understand the district plan and the strategy and detailed proposals it contains it acts as a refresher course to readers already familiar with the district. The layout and length recommended for this profile is: • introduction to the district (150 words) o location in the State o administration o basic physical features, e.g. hills, rivers • natural resources (150 words) o mineral and similar resources o water resources o forest resources, fisheries • human resources (200 words) o population total and composition o patterns of population distribution • land and agriculture (200 words) o land use and land ownership o main crops o livestock if important • industry (200 words) o major industries o small scale, including khadi and village industry • infrastructure (100 words) o national highways, other highways and district roads, rail etc o educational and health facilities The style of a district profile will vary with authorship but a simple, readable and interesting style has much to recommend it. The first illustration is taken from a district profile prepared for Varanasi district in U.P and shows how the reader's interest can be captured rifht from the beginning of the profile. After three paragraphs, the reader knows a little about the

29

history and importance of Varanasi city, the location of the district and the district's administrative structure. Illustration District profile - the introductory section Varanasi city has the pride of place in India's cultural heritage. The district was named after the capital town Varanasi. It is one of the oldest living planned cities in the world. Varanasi epitomises the history of human settlements in the middle Ganga valley. As the city is situated between the rivers Varuna and Assi it had been renamed as Varanasi from it earlier name Benares. The district is located in the eastern part of U.P and is surrounded by Bihar state in the east, district of Allahabad in the west, Mirzapur in the south and Jaunpur together with Ghazipur in the north. The district is spread over an area of 5.091 sq. km. of which 4,962 sq. km. are rural. Administratively the district is divided into 6 revenue sub-divisions called as tehsils and 22 development blocks. The total number of villages in the district was 4,700. The villages are organised under 2,194 gram sabhas. There are 15 towns including the city of Varanasi. from: Self-employment for poverty alleviation: case studies in Uttar Pradesh eds B.K Thapliyal and Om Prakash NIRD, Hyderabad (DAG-NIRD series 5) The second illustration on the following page is taken from a profile of Bidar district in Karnataka and shows how a conclusion can be handled. Note how it describes in turn the potentials of the district - industry, agriculture, minerals - and, equally important, the implications of these points for government action. The authorities should "identify appropriate cost-effective technology for dryland agriculture"; "Government should make land available ... to start new industries". These are very general policy points, but they serve to move the reader on from thinking about the data to actions to be taken. 3.10 Conclusion This chapter has shown how the groundwork of district planning is performed. By the end of it the planner has: ƒ

a comprehensive district data matrix that can be updated as necessary (and can be computerised when facilities are available).

ƒ

analyses of disparities in provision between blocks for a range of important variables.

30

ƒ

calculations of likely trends employment and poverty.

ƒ

a short district profile, supported by summary tables. This will be important in explaining and negotiating the plan with the concerned authorities.

ƒ

a series of base maps to support the profile.

for five

important variables

including

output,

Illustration District profile - the concluding section Notwithstanding various problems and constraints, Bidar district has some potentialities which should be exploited through necessary policy actions. For instance, a district once declared a "no industry district" has demonstrated considerable industrial growth over the years. In order to provide gainful employment to the people, especially in rural areas, there is need to popularise planned development of dry land agriculture and especially through watershed programmes wherever possible. There is a lot of scope for introducing new programmes to promote agro-forestry, silvi-pasture and to develop uncultivated lands as common property resources. Furthermore, it is imperative for the authorities to identify appropriate cost-effective technology for dry land agriculture and strengthening marketing infrastructure for agricultural inputs and outputs. The available resource endowments, such as agro-horticultural products and minerals, are not adequately exploited for industrial manufacturing and there is ample scope for small scale industries. A cluster approach can be adopted to identify potentials in this regard. More importantly, there is a demand from entrepreneurs that Government should make land available to them at reasonable prices to start new industries (current land values are quite high). In addition, what is most important is that there is a need to organise awareness camps since, in the district and indeed the region as a whole, there is a lack of awareness about current programmes, poor mobilisation of socially disadvantaged groups, poor participation of women and absence of community participation in development programmes. The need is to educate the general public with regard to various measures that the Government has introduced to improve living conditions and for the all round development of the district as a whole.

31

CHAPTER 4 DISTRICT OBJECTIVES

4.1

Purpose of this chapter

This chapter looks at the way in which the district plan's objectives can be identified. Definition Objectives A plan's objectives are the changes or developments it is trying to achieve. Typical district plan objectives include poverty alleviation, employment, enhanced agricultural production and so on. Many of these are already national and State objectives but the district plan should be specific about the priority it attaches to each and whether there are any additional purely local objectives to be added. For example employment generation is important in Andhra Pradesh as elsewhere but the plight of the unemployed handloom weavers in certain districts might justify particular priority.

Objectives can be identified in the context of: ƒ ƒ

potentials and opportunities problems/gaps and needs

What do these words mean?

Definitions Potentials, opportunities, problems, gaps and needs All districts have a particular endowment of natural resources, human resources and infrastructure. These provide potentials or opportunities for future development. For example, encouraging farmers to adopt new crops or set up in business to serve new markets are ways of exploiting opportunities. People experience problems, some short lived and others of long duration. For example, lack of drinking water in a village is a problem. Problems can be expressed as gaps in provision. Gaps emerge primarily from the analysis of the district or block situation which is often done on the basis of information from the district analysis (Chapter 3). Problems can also be expressed as needs. A request for a dugwell is a statement of need. 32

4.2

Layout of this chapter

The rest of this chapter is divided into seven sections as follows: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

identification of potentials (section 4.3) identification of problems and gaps (section 4.4) identification of local needs (section 4.5) identifying problems, needs and gaps through consultation (section 4.6) prioritising problems, gaps and needs (section 4.7) how to identify objectives (section 4.8) conclusion (section 4.9)

Sections 4.3 to 4.6 are designed to help you find out what are the potentials, problems, needs and gaps of your district. A range of procedures are described to help you do this. As you identify each potential, problem etc, it should be entered into the left hand column of the most important Format in this chapter - Format 4.1. There is also room for you to show how many blocks or panchayats actually experience this particular potential, problem etc. When you draw up Format 4.1, leave a good number of rows and be prepared to add more if necessary. Format 4.1 Cumulative listing of potentials, problems needs and gaps Potentials, problems, needs and gaps

Number of blocks experiencing

Number of panchayats experiencing

Data for the completion of the table can be obtained from three sources: the analyses recommended by Chapter 3, information from panchayat institutions and direct crosschecking from field study 4.3

Identification of potentials and opportunities

Chapter three of this manual provides instructions on how to complete a district data matrix (section 3.3), block disparity tables (section 3.4), trend estimates (sections 3.5 and 3.6) and district summary tables (section 3.7). The first step is to use the district data matrix to identify resource potentials. These are unused or underused agricultural or other resources which new developments may use. The

entries under heading 1 (land, agricultural and allied resources) will indicate whether there is room for the expansion of cultivation or livestock rearing. Entries under heading 3 (infrastructure) will indicate whether there is the possibility of expanding irrigation. Entries under heading 4 will indicate what mineral resources are worked in the district and advice should be taken on whether there is potential for expansion. Information should also be taken if available from the district summary tables (3.7) and the district profile (3.9). Enter all identified potentials and opportunities into Format 4.1. Concerned departments should also be consulted. The next step is to identify the lead sector of the district. This will give the planner a lead to those activities that need encouragement and possibly supporting investment in the development of the district. Definition Lead sector The lead sector(s) of a district economy is that sector which either: • dominates an economy in such a way that it provides the large pan of output and employment. For example fruit production in many pans of Himachal Pradesh. • is growing rapidly in such a way that it contributes more than other sectors to the expansion of output and employment. For example, industry in districts around Delhi like Ghaiiabad or Faridabad which has grown dramatically and has contributed more than other sectors to employment creation and output. The lead sector is important for two reasons. ƒ

Firstly, if it dominates the district economy, supporting investments (for example, expansion of milk collection centres in a dairying district) will have an immediate effect on output and employment. Care needs to be taken however that the supply of these investments and services has not reached saturation.

ƒ

Secondly, if it is the fastest growing sector in the economy, then this probably reflects deep seated trends in the exploitation of resources, the application of technology or the growth of demand. Supporting investments in this sector will capitalise upon these trends and give maximum return to public investment.

To identify the lead sector in the district economy, two sets of tables are needed: ƒ

the district data matrix for o land and agriculture o industry o human resource

34

ƒ

the trend calculations

To identify the lead sectors Location Quotients (LQs) can be used. The location quotient for a sector can be calculated to show concentration [LQ(C)] as well as to measure relative growth [LQ(G>] as follows: LQ(C) = and

LQ(G) =

percent labour employed in a sector in the block ----------------------------------------------------------percent labour employed in that sector in the district percent growth in labour in a sector in the block ----------------------------------------------------------percent growth in labour in that sector in the district

Thus LQ values greater than one would indicate either increasing concentration of. or growth in, the sector in question in a block.

Illustration Location quotient calculation Location Quotient for Concentration (LQ(C)) Blocks

Sectors agriculture and allied activities

industry

trade and commerce

others

Garbeta

86.51

2.25

4.61

7.61

Keshpur

83.91

2.75

4.52

8.76

Midnapore block

75.67

3.40

7.93

13.00

Midnapore District

82.97

3.40

4.80

8.83

LQ (C) Garbeta

86.51/82.97 1.04

2,25/3.40 = 0.66

4.12/4.80 = 0.86

7.13/8.83 0.81

LQ (C) Keshpur

83.91/82.97 = 1.01

2.75/3.40 0.81

4.52/4.80 0.94

8.76/8.83 0.99

LQ (C) Midnapore block

75.67/82.97 0.91

3.40/3.40 = 1.00

7.93/4.80 1.65

13.00/8.83 1.47

The same methodology can be used to calculate the LQ(G). Once lead sectors have been identified, enter them in the potentials column in Format 4.1. 35

4.4

Identification of problems and gaps

Problems and gaps could be identified by using the blockwise disparity tables carried out as part of the district analysis in Chapter 3.

Step 1: identify disparities between blocks To interpret the blockwise disparity tables, turn to the disparity row in each table. ƒ

the numerical disparity is not in itself significant, since many differences have ready explanations. For instance, less health facilities may be expected where there is less population. However it is a pointer to the two relative disparity measures.

ƒ

the relative disparity per unit area tells us whether the block is above or below the district average in terms of the area used or served. This is relevant to certain kinds of variable, and particularly: o land use o infrastructure o certain kinds of service where distance and access are important, such as health and education

ƒ the relative disparity per unit population, which is probably the most important measure of disparity, tells us whether the block is above or below the district average in terms of the population employed or served. This is relevant to many kinds of variable and notably: o employment o infrastructure o services In many (perhaps most cases), disparity per unit area and per unit population will point to the same kind of shortfall, gap or over-supply. Use them all. The objective is to identify those blocks where there are clear shortages of provision in relation to the district as a whole. Once blocks and disparities have been identified, enter them into the list of problems, needs and gaps in Format 4.1.

36

Step 2: identify environmental problems Indicators of environmental problems have been recorded in the land, agriculture and natural resources matrix (3.3) and have been analysed under trend analysis (3.5). Environmental problems are usually side effects of productive systems such as intensive agricultural cropping or sheep rearing. Where an identified environmental problem is associated with the lead sector in any block, solving this problem should be taken up as an objective for the block and district. Check the lead sector identified for each block against the environmental problems noted for that block. Where the lead sector is directly associated with an environmental problem this problem should be added to Format 4.1. Step 3: check of norms against provision The block disparity tables will show if there are clear disparities in the provision of services (especially roads, health, education and certain other public services). Blocks which appear to be undersupplied should have their provision checked with reference to standard norms. Such norms have usually been identified by Central Government. Definition Norms of provision Central Government in respect of certain services has laid down minimum standards of provision which State governments and district administrations should attain. Norms of provision may be found in infrastructure (e.g. drinking water), health and educational provision. For example, one educational norm is that primary schools should be constructed so that all children live within two kilometres' walk. Wliilst the attainment of norms will take rime, they do provide a standard by which gaps in provision can be identified. Disparities with reference to norms should be entered into Format 4.1.

4.5

Consulting panchayat institutions in the district

The second major source of information from which objectives can be derived are requests from panchayat institutions in the district. Under the 73rd amendment all States and districts will be required to take account of the needs that are being expressed through the grass roots political decision making institutions that are established under the various State acts.

37

This section lays out a procedure for complying with the 73rd amendment and actively consulting and taking account of grass roots decision making institutions. Consultation procedure The following procedure is based upon the existing hierarchy of panchayats in most States (zilla parishad, panchayat samiti and gram sabha) and their corresponding administrative officer(s) (district administration, block development office and VLW/gram sevak). The principles underlying the procedure are: ƒ

a standard proforma (Format 4.2) is used to record gram sahha requests and opinions. Provision is made in this proforma for a village's own commitment of resources in terms of money or labour input.

ƒ

gram sahha proformas are aggregated and approved (or modified) by the concerned panchayat samiti.

ƒ

consultation takes place on an agreed calendar.

ƒ

administrative officers at the appropriate level are responsible for ensuring that consultation is carried out and the completed proforma submitted to the concerned authority. Format 4.2 Proforma for statements of need from Gram Sabhas

District ......................................... Block

.........................................

Grama Sabha ............................................. Request (scheme, project or asset)

Estimated cost (Rs)

Reason for request

38

Resources (financial/labour) to be committed by Grama Sabha

The procedure of consultation employs the following steps: Step 1: the district planning functionaries prepare the proformas and ensure that they are approved by the zilla parishad and that concerned district authorities are informed. Step 2: the district planning functionaries send the proformas to block development offices. Block development offices then ensure that they are transmitted to VLWs for communication to gram sabhas. VLWs are responsible for ensuring that proformas are completed. Step 3: VLWs then return the completed proformas to block development offices. Block offices list the requests by sector and submit these lists to their panchayat samiti for approval or modification. Step 4:

Block development offices then submit the sanctioned lists to district planners.

Analysing the results and listing the needs The next stage involves analysing the results for their bearing on objectives. Remember that the proformas must be retained since village requests must be taken into consideration in the adjustment of existing programmes and the formulation of action plans. The procedure is: take the list as received from the panchayat samiti and enter them into the cumulative listing of potentials, problems, needs and gaps (Format 4.1). Assume that the following requests have been received from the gram sabhas of two blocks: Block A requests for 5 gravelled village roads (20 km), 23 handpumps for drinking water (in villages without proper supply) and measures to reduce groundwater salinity in irrigation wells Block B requests for 3 gravelled village roads (12 km), extension of STC bus service to village, 12 handpumps for drinking water (in village without proper supply), provision of primary health centre (PHC) in village without proper medical facility and help with reduction of flooding during the monsoon. These should be entered into the first column of Format 4.1. It is useful at this stage to compare the results of the consultative procedure with needs and gaps identified by the analysis of the district data matrix. The existence of significant differences or anomalies (for example many requests for drinking water supply) in the analysis of current provision or block disparities suggests that the district is already well supplied. Anomalies of this kind may suggest a need for cross-checking of data at village level. However, even without anomalies it would be advisable to cross check by a few field visits/surveys. 39

4.6 Cross-checking data The third source of information arises from direct consultation through field study. The procedures in sections 4.5 and 4.6 will reveal evidence of many needs, gaps or problems. The purpose of this section is to show how: ƒ

to cross-check on the validity of the data that backs this information. For example, is the apparent shortage of public drinking water supplies compensated in local practice by extensive use of private wells ?

ƒ

to interpret the causes and effects underlying genuine needs. For example, is a high drop out rate from primary schooling due to a lack of interest on the part of parents, or the seasonal migration of families to distant places for work, or the inability of local schools to retain adequately qualified teachers?

Cross checking should be carried out where there is reason to believe the quality of information available through the census, district technical officers' returns, hospital records, etc., may be inadequate. Reasons for inadequacy include ƒ false or inappropriate data through weaknesses in classification (such as smallholding migrant workers classified as landless), breakdowns in data collection or recording, manipulations of information at any stage by interested persons, etc. ƒ information that is technically correct (as in the above example of water supplies and wells) but not an adequate description of the underlying situation. Where such weaknesses are suspected, cross-checking studies should be done. Two methods may be adopted for cross-checking: ƒ ƒ

formal survey spot check

Cross checking method 1: formal survey Where the information to be crosschecked is crucial to achieving the main objectives of the plan or it is politically sensitive or it is particularly difficult to check, a thorough and scientifically sound survey may be required. The techniques involved in a survey of this kind are outside the scope of this manual. Consequently, the services of a reputable research institution or organisation should he sought. This may in itself require approval from the district level authorities and funds allocated for it.

40

Cross-checking method 2: spot check Many suspected information weaknesses are best investigated on the basis of brief field visits. Such spot checks while lacking full scientific rigour, can nevertheless provide valuable information to help correct false impressions created by faulty data. The value of this information and its persuasiveness will be enhanced hy taking care to ensure that the following steps are followed; Step 1: decide how many places to visit and in which locations. Bear in mind the need to select locations that adequately represent the nature of the information problem that you are addressing. Avoid roadside bias. For example to address a problem about the adequacy of information about drinking water supplies for instance, select a number of areas in which anomalies are apparent and also visit areas in which the information does not appear problematic, so comparisons can be made. Step 2: decide who to talk to. In most cases non-officials as well as officials may be consulted. Care should be taken to think out who are the interested as well as the probably well informed persons. Consult all relevant categories of persons. Generally checklists will be most useful, but ensure that the same issues are raised with each person. Step 3: make field visits Step 4: prepare report taking care to; • state what information problem you have been addressing, • what steps you took to ensure that the information collected is as accurate as possible, • what your findings have been, • how you interpret those findings and what difference this makes to the conclusions that you draw from the original data. 4.7

Ranking potentials, problems and needs

Having identified problems and needs and having cross-checked them it is useful to rank them so that the objectives of the district plan are stated to reflect those priorities. The simplest way to prioritise the needs and problems is ranking them on the basis of number of panchayats facing a problem and/or expressing a need. These could be easily ranked and arranged in descending order of priorities following Format 4.3.

41

Format 4.3 Prioritising potentials, problems and needs faced by number of panchayats

Potentials, problems and needs

rank

The analysis in this chapter has identified a number of different kinds of opportunity for district development. These are expressed as potentials, problems, needs and gaps which have been ranked according to their incidence of occurrence in the district. Before they can be taken as possible objectives for policy they need to be converted into objectives. To have an objective (see the definition on p.29) assumes that in some way an individual or society is dissatisfied with the present situation and wants to change it into something new. Consequently, an objective can usually be defined with reference to the current situation. For example, if crop yield then the objective is to increase them. If there is a high dropout rate in school, the objective must be to reduce the rate. The easiest way to convert problems, potentials, etc. into objectives is to use Format 4.4. This shows the problem list in the left hand column with priorities taken from Format 3. To convert these to objectives, try to identify the opposite situation to the potential or problem identified. This can usually be spotted by the verb doing, having, taking and its reverse. So, if irrigation resources are available (not using), the objective must be to tap them (using). If there is a need for drinking water (not having), the objective must be to provide it (having). Format 4.4 is laid out for four potentials, problems, etc. in this case. The right hand column is used for the statement of objectives.

Format 4.4 Identifying objectives Potentials, problems, needs and gaps

Expressed as objectives

42

Note two important things. Firstly, getting the objective right involves stating the problem very carefully. If you say that the problem is not, say. polluted drinking water but the incidence of infant diarrhoea in rural villages, you are describing a problem in two different ways and this could produce different objectives. Secondly, note that an objective describes a destination. What it does not do is say how to get there; one can travel to Delhi by bus, train or plane and each alternative has different cost and time implications. Choosing a course of action involves thinking about the resources available, the time taken to get results, the side effects and indeed many other implications: this subject is dealt with later in the Guide. The following illustration for Format 4.4 shows how objectives can be defined for four five common problems in district planning.

Illustration The use of Format 4.4 for identifying objectives

4.8

Potentials, problems, needs and gaps

Expressed as objectives

ground water available

expansion of irrigation

135 villages lacking drinking water provision

provision of drinking water in these villages as per norms

less girls in school

undertake measures to improve attendance of girls in schools

pollution of river courses by agrochemicals in (specified) blocks

reduce run off from farms to acceptable proportions

poor bus service to (specified) blocks

better public transport provision

Transmitting the rank ordered list to District Planning Committee and/or district level Panchayat

The rank ordered list of potentials, problems, needs and gaps, re-expressed as possible objectives, should now be taken back to the relevant democratic institutions for final prioritisation and adoption as district development objectives. This may confirm the list as it stands as an order of priority or it may lead to changes according to the views, judgements and commitments of the leadership.

43

4,9

Objectives Statement

After approval the final list of objectives for the District should be prepared. Each objective should be expressed in as precise a manner as possible, with a time frame and quantitative indicators so that the performance of the district can be monitored. Typically, the statement of objectives could read as follows: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

expand tube well irrigation expand employment creation schemes particularly in non-agricultural sector improve low cost housing provision improve access to drinking water especially hand pump supplies improve levels of health awareness especially regarding child care improve availability of lady teachers in village schools.

It should be noted that some objectives will require the development of new policies or programmes, or revision of existing programmes. How to do this is addressed in later chapters. 4.10

Conclusion

By the end of this chapter the following stages should have been completed: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

analysis of the district data matrix to identify opportunities, problems, gaps and needs consultation of panchayat bodies and requests taken account of field checking of data and causes of problems, etc., if necessary construction of an objectives table for the district

CHAPTER 5 ANALYSIS OF PROGRAMMES AND SCHEMES 5.1

Purpose of this chapter

The purpose of this chapter is to help you ƒ ƒ

analyse current Government programmes and schemes within the district find out what adjustments need to be made if they are to serve district objectives better.

Government investment in a district largely depends upon departmental (sectoral) programmes and schemes. These vary from infrastructural programmes (e.g. roads, drinking water) to the provision of services (e.g. education, agricultural extension). Schemes targeted at particular problems or groups of beneficiaries are also important (e.g. IRDP, DWCRA). State Governments also invest through various programmes and schemes in a district depending upon their resources. There are many such programmes, as for example Apna Gaon Apna Kam in Rajasthan, Girl Child cradle scheme in Tamil Nadu, Ashray scheme in Karnataka, Zal Dhara in West Bengal and so on. Programmes and schemes have several important characteristics: ƒ

they are ongoing, that is the content of each programme or scheme does not change a great deal from year to year

ƒ

they are controlled by the State or Central Government, usually in the form of a financial allocation or a delivery target (ie. x number of schools, y number of beneficiaries) and a unit cost.

Consequently, decision making at district level depends upon the allocation of a fixed type and quantity of resources to competing areas, locations or individuals. The decision - who benefits - is sometimes made by the application of Government fixed norms. More often, the decision about who benefits is made on political grounds or on technical considerations. Therefore planning at district level really involves making relatively small changes to ongoing programmes and schemes. Central policies, norms, unit costs etc. will continue and will be a framework within which these relatively small changes can be made. However the room for change is likely to increase as districts and panchayats develop more autonomy as a result of the new legislation. There is already limited room for modification (within sectors) in some States and most States have some kind of minimal local discretionary/untied fund. If the new legislation expands the range of choice open to the district, this choice is likely to involve the ability to move funds more easily between existing irogrammes and schemes.

45

Consequently the planner needs to be able to exercise this ability, identify adjustments, get them sanctioned by the concerned authorities and ensure that they are included in annual action plans. 5.2

Layout of this chapter

This chapter is divided into the following sections: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

5.3

sources of data (section 5.3) analysing a programme/scheme for consistency (section 5.4) analysis of capacity for expansion (section 5.5) analysis of block disparity (section 5.6) analysis of linkage effects (section 5.7) adjustments in programmes and schemes (section 5.8) Sources of data

Modifying programmes and schemes successfully depends upon information about: ƒ

their objectives. These are usually Centre or State determined, often in the light of wide ranging policies like poverty alleviation or universal primary education

ƒ

current targets

ƒ

physical and financial resource costs

ƒ

past and current performance

Following is a list of the location and sources of various kinds of data available at district level: ƒ

programme objectives and guidelines are available with: o the implementing agency at district level o the planning section of the concerned implementing department at State level o with the administrative department in the State Secretariat with the concerned central Ministry if a central scheme.

ƒ programme targets are available at the levels given above. Physical and financial targets are also available for blocks and village panchayats from the concerned BDO and village level worker. ƒ quarterly and annual progress reports are available at the block/district level. Compilations of reports can be found in the statistical section of each department and also with the concerned administrative department. Reports on central schemes can be obtained from the appropriate implementing department and the concerned central Ministry.

46

ƒ programme reviews and evaluations are periodically conducted by planning departments at district level as well as the concerned departments at State or Central level. An important source of information on the difficulties faced in the implementation of the programmes and measures initiated to overcome them would be available in the minutes of regular review meetings held at the District, State and Central levels.

5.4

Analysing a programme or scheme for consistency

All schemes and programmes planned and implemented in the district should fit as far as possible district objectives. They should try to meet the needs and aspirations of its people and offer solutions to the various problems faced by the district. This section shows how each Central, State or Public Corporation programme or scheme can be tested for its consistency with district objectives. It also shows how to pinpoint those areas within a programme or scheme where adjustment or modification is needed if better consistency is to be obtained. Definition Consistency A programme or scheme is consistent when its outputs - education, employment, irrigation, housing - match those identified to be locally important district objectives and unintended environmental effects are avoided. It is difficult to imagine a situation in which any scheme or programme would be inconsistent with broad national or State objectives but nevertheless it is still possible for a programme to be out of step with local priorities as expressed by the district plan. Therefore the first question is: does the programme or scheme fit district objectives? To answer this we need to construct a table. This is done as follows using Format 5.1: Step 1: list all the objectives of the district plan across the top of the table, and then list all the programmes or schemes operating in the district. If the number of schemes is large, it may be useful to construct separate tables for each sectoral area or department. Step 2: indicate in the appropriate cell whether the programme has direct impact, indirect impact or no effect at all on the objectives listed at the top. Use the letters D or 1 or leave the cell blank to show no impact. Deciding whether there is a link between the programme and an objective is a matter of judgment. However it can help to find out what the programme's own objectives are (see section 5.2 above) or discuss it with the concerned officer at district level.

47

Definition Direct and indirect impact Direct impact means that programme output and objective are the same. For example, if the district's objective is improved drinking water supply, the Accelerated Rural Water Supply programme (Centrally sponsored) will have a direct impact. Indirect impact means that the programme output will have a side-effect on the objective. For example, if a district objective is employment, many State agricultural schemes will have an indirect impact through their effect on the output and hence the demand for labour on farms. Format 5.1 is set out to enable the consistency between four schemes/programmes and four district objectives to be measured. Format 5.1 Consistency table layout

scheme/ programme

District objectives objective 1

objective 2

objective 3

objective 4

This step may be illustrated for five Central programmes (JRY, Million Wells, IAY, etc. and five district objectives (roads, drinking water, employment, etc.) as follows: Illustration The use of Format 5.1 Consistency table for central rural development schemes Scheme/ programme

JRY

Objectives roads D

drinking water

employment

soil

D

D

Million Wells

D

IAY

I

IRDP

D

DWCRA

D

minor irrigation

D

D

We end up with a listing of all the centrally sponsored programmes and schemes that have a potential direct or indirect impact on our objectives. So, if our objective is employment, we can see from the list above mat of the Centrally sponsored schemes, JRY, Million Wells, IRDP and DWCRA are all possibilities for expansion. 5.5

Consistency with environmental requirements

Many schemes and programmes have some unintended side effects as well as intended benefits. For example measures to increase agricultural production, such as the encouragement of fertiliser application may have adverse effects upon the quality of water in rivers and upon fishery production. Expansion of grazing for livestock can reduce forests cover. It is important to review existing schemes in order to avoid side effects and conflicts of objectives. The following checklist of environmental concerns (Format 5.2) may be used for this purpose (see also section 6.7). Taking advice from the concerned departments if necessary, insert an X or make an appropriate comment in a cell where a side effect is suspected. Those schemes and programmes which do not have negative side effects may be taken to be environmentally sound. Format 5.2 Checklist of Environmental Concerns

Scheme/Programme

5.6

Side effects Upon water quality

Upon soil

Upon air

Upon biomass (forest, etc.)

Analysis of capacity for expansion

Centrally sponsored schemes are often subject to fixed district-wise allocations and norms of provision. The same may be true of State schemes. Therefore the next question is: can identified programmes/schemes be expanded if necessary ? To answer this question, we have to find out whether the physical and, if necessary, the financial resources exist for expansion. A series of questions in table format (Format 5.3) are used here. These questions ask about the availability of resources of every kind to expand the scheme or programme. They should be answered as fully as possible within the scope of the table. Examples of how the questions work follow and there is also an illustration of the application of Format 5.3 to primary education.

ƒ

Does the concerned department have enough operating inputs? For example are there enough seeds, pesticides, fertiliser in the case of an agricultural scheme to expand the programme if necessary?

ƒ

Does the concerned department have manpower available (both skilled and unskilled) to expand the programme if necessary? For example, could PWD expand an infrastructural programme without appointing an additional engineer.

ƒ

Are the necessary local resources available needed to support an expanded programme ? For example an irrigation programme cannot be expanded if there is inadequate groundwater in the area in question.

ƒ

Are there financial resources currently available to support expansion? For example are there unspent balances or supplementary allocations available which could be used or transferred to support the expansion?

Format 5.2 Checklist of Environmental Concerns

Scheme/Programme

Side effects Upon water quality

Upon soil

Upon air

Upon biomass (forest, etc.)

Illustration The use of Format 5.3 Expansion of primary education in the district Scheme/ programme

Enough inputs available ?

Staff resources available ?

Local resources available ?

primary school construction

Construction inputs available

No provision in budget for additional staff

Commitments of No provision in construction budget labour from panchayats

50

Financial resources available ?

teaching materials supply programme

Can be locally obtained

Administrative staff only required

Not applicable

Aid grant available

NFE centres

Centres have been identified

Locally

Not applicable

Aid grant available

obtainable

The final step in consistency analysis is to list all programmes which are: i) ii) iii)

consistent with district objectives environmentally sound capable of being expanded, if necessary, and if the district makes financial resources available.

The next step is to check how far the programmes identified will make a contribution to the reduction of blockwise disparities. A block disparity table is used for this purpose. Block disparities have been identified using Chapter 4. section 4.4, step 1. These should be now entered blockwise on the left hand margin of Format 5.4. District programmes and schemes taken from the consistency analysis (section 5.5) above should be entered for each column. Then the impact of the programme upon the identified disparity for each block should be entered with an x. Finally a disparity reduction score should be calculated.

Format 5.4 Block disparity table Block name

Scheme/ programme 1

Scheme/ programme 2

disparity reduction score 51

Scheme/ programme 3

Scheme/ programme 4 etc.

This is illustrated for the impact of a selection of Centrally sponsored schemes on block disparities. Schemes (IRDP, JRY, etc.) are entered in the columns and reported disparities for each block in the rows. An X is inserted where a scheme is likely to have an impact upon disparity, and then the disparity reduction score calculated by addition. In this case we see that JRY has the maximum impact upon disparity since it will help matters in three blocks and lead to improvement in village roads, the poverty line situation and school facility. No other scheme/programme approaches this score. Illustration The use of Format 5.4 Impact of central schemes upon block disparities Block name

IRDP

IAY

JRY

Million Wells

block 1 less drinking water

X

block 2 less village roads block 3 high below poverty line

X

X

block 4 less school facility disparity reduction score

5.8

Accelerated rural water supply

X

X

X

1

3

0

1

1

Analysis of linkage effects

When formulating a programme or scheme, its linkage with various other programmes is generally overlooked with the result that many schemes fail to take off.

52

Definition Linkage Programmes or schemes often depend upon inputs or services of several kinds from other programmes: and in turn themselves contribute inputs or services to programmes. These are sometimes called backward (from) linkages or forward (to) linkages. For example, the expansion of IRDP milk cattle in a block depends upon the availability of fodder, veterinary inputs and milk collection facilities provided by other programmes. Without these linkages this particular IRDP scheme will fail. This is particularly true in the case of whole blocks or districts where problems, objectives and programmes are closely interrelated. Consequently, the nature of linkages between ongoing programmes needs to be understood. The following procedure is recommended: Step 1: construct programme-to-programme linkage table A linkage table should be constructed, following Format 5.5. This table lists all major schemes/programmes in the district along both axes: Each programme can then be given an interconnectivity score calculated by the number of linkages shown in the table. Those programmes with highest linkages with other programmes should be given priority: in the illustration, supply of HYV seed and vegetable cultivation programmes.

Format 5.5 Linkage table Programme/ scheme 1

Programme/ scheme 2

Programme/ scheme 1 Programme/ scheme 2 Programme/ scheme 3 Programme/ scheme 4 interconnectivity score 53

Programme/ scheme 3

Programme/ scheme 4 etc

The illustration shows how an interconnectivity score can be calculated for seven schemes including the supply of HYV seeds, lift irrigation and Indira Awaas Yojaria. Schemes are entered in both rows and columns and linkages identified by an X. In this case, we see that the supply of HYV seeds is linked to lift irrigation, agricultural extension, Jeewan Dhara and vegetable cultivation; conversely (and as might be expected), Indira Awaas Yojana is only linked to housing construction, The HYV scheme and vegetable cultivation have the highest interconnectivity scores with lift irrigation and agricultural extension close behind. Illustration The use of Format 5.5 Programme linkage table supply of HYV

agr. Jeewan lift irri- extension Dhara gation

veg.. cultiv.

X

X

Supply of HYV lift irrigation

X

agr. extension

X

Jeewan Dhara

X

veg/ cultivation

X

X

X

Indira Awaas Yojana

X

X

X

X

X

X

X X

Indira Awaas Yojana X

housing construction interconnectivity score

housing construction

4

3

2

3

54

4

1

1

Step 2: construct sectoral linkage table The same method and modified Format can be used to identify priority programmes within 2ctor. This is of particular importance where district objectives have identified one or re sectors as of absolute priority. The illustration demonstrates application of this format he agriculture and allied sector at district level: Illustration The use of Format 5.5 Sectoral linkage table for agriculture and allied sector crop husbandry crop husbandry horticulture soil conservation animal husbandry

horticulture

soil conservation

animal husbandry

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

sheep and wool

interconnectivity

sheep and wool

X

X

3

2

3

3

1

score

This table demonstrates that, within the agriculture and allied sector, there is considerable interconnectivity between several programmes with the exception of horticulture and sheep/wool. Programmes that are similar in objective and approach have a higher chance of being dovetailed with each other. For example, construction of a well under the Million Well Scheme could be linked with the Pumpset Installation Scheme operated by the Scheduled Caste Development Corporation. This will show up on the intrasectoral linkage table. However, while dovetailing the programmes care should be taken to ensure the contents of each programme do not contradict each other. For example, in the above illustration of linking well construction with pumpset installation, a contradiction in the eligibility requirement for each programme may pose problems. The scheme of pumpset installation under SCDC programme provides maximum subsidy per beneficiary of Rs 5,000. But this cannot be combined with subsidy under the 55

Million Well scheme.

5.9

Adjustment in programmes and schemes

After the analysis of each programme, the next step is to assess how best adjustments can be made in the programmes or schemes, and how any additional funding can be best utilised to achieve the district's objectives. This involves the following steps: Step I: draw up a list of those programmes or schemes that are consistent with district objectives and where there is capacity for expansion. Step 2: construct adjustment table (Format 5.6) showing programme consistency, impact on block disparity and interconnectivity. These should be copied in from the appropriate tables calculated earlier. Format 5.6 Programme adjustment table programme/ scheme 1

programme/ scheme 2

programme/ scheme 3, etc.

consistency impact on block disparity interconnectivity

total

and the illustration shows how Format 5.6 is applied to a range of special schemes.

56

Illustration The use of Format 5.6 Programme adjustment table IRDP

JRY

IAY

MWC

Accelerated Rural Water Supply

consistency

2

3

0.5

2

1

impact on block

1

3

0

1

2

disparity inter-

4

3

2

2

2

connectivity total

7

9

2.5

5

5

Step 3: prioritise these schemes into categories A (maximum priority), B (intermediate priority) and C (low priority) on the basis of the following: ƒ ƒ ƒ

the degree of consistency with objectives (see section 5.4) the degree of disparity reduction available (see section 5.5) the degree of interconnectivity with other programmes (see section 5.6).

Thus, the programme adjustment table shows that: JRY is the most consistent with district objectives and has the greatest potential impact on block disparity. On the other hand, IRDP has the highest interconnectivity score. Taking the measures together, JRY scores best and IRDP second. The financial and physical adjustment of programmes to suit these priorities should then be done at the annual action plan stage (see Chapter 8).

5.10

Conclusion

In this chapter we have analysed the current programmes and schemes in the context of: consistency with district objectives capacity of expansion impact of these programmes on reducing block disparity linkages between programmes adjustments of programmes based on the above analysis

57

CHAPTER 6 PLANNING NEW PROJECTS

6.1 Purpose of this chapter Definition Project A project is a set of activities aimed at achieving one or more goals within a stipulated time, with stipulated resources and in a stipulated area or region. While projects are planned actions involving investments, programmes are a combination of interlinked projects confirming to a specific objective.

At present districts rarely if ever design or initiate new projects. The emphasis is on implementing standardised programmes designed by the State or Centre. This may change with the coming of the Amendments to the Constitution. Twenty-nine rural and several urban functions are to be transferred to the districts for planning and implementation. If this transfer is accompanied by control over financial resources (whether Centre/State resources or locally raised revenues), districts will be in a position to start new projects. They will need to do so where the analyses in sections 3 and 4 (or where there are felt needs of people) show that needs are unmet. What is needed is a simple planning procedure that will result in project proposals that can be put to district authorities' proper sanction. 6.2

Project identification

Project identification is the first step in a series of steps by which a project is identified, formulated, appraised, implemented, monitored and evaluated. Project identification is essentially the generation of an idea for a project. Definition Project idea A project idea is the first step in project planning. It is a statement that there is an opportunity which can be exploited or a need that can be met by a particular course of action. So, project ideas might include a new road, providing irrigation to a particular area or a new panchayat ghar. At this stage, ideas are no more than simple statements: their feasibility, costs and returns have still to be worked out.

58

Project ideas may rise from various sources for example: ƒ

Five-Year Plan documents where the broad objectives of national planning such as increasing productivity, reducing unemployment, alleviating poverty, correcting regional imbalances in development, growth with social justice, environmental preservation, sustainable development strategies, etc. are indicated;

ƒ

the results of the district analysis carried out according to chapter 3 and complemented by district objectives identified by the methods in chapter 4. These will indicate clear opportunities for development or points where norms of provision remain unfulfilled;

ƒ

requests from representatives of the people, e.g. members and Presidents of panchayats, Members of Legislative Assemblies, Members of Parliament, etc,;

ƒ

resolutions passed by panchayats, municipalities and corporations or voluntary organisations based on the felt needs of the people in the area;

ƒ

any scarcity of essential goods and services, social facilities, etc. For example, lack of drinking water, electricity shortage, lack of firewood, lack of educational institutions, hospital services, etc;

ƒ

suggestions from expert groups like engineers, technical personnel, State Planning Boards, etc;

ƒ

experience in implementation of projects elsewhere and failure of past projects:

ƒ

success stories of projects implemented inside or outside the country.

Illustration One example of a success story that provided project ideas for India as a whole was the Anand model from Gujarat which affected dairy development throughout much of India. However, all over the country there are success stories at the state level which not only had regional impacts but were adopted by other states. Such programmes include Midday Meal Schemes (Tamil Nadu), Operation Barga (West Bengal), Land Army Corporation (Karnataka), Antyodaya (Rajasthan), Rural Employment Guarantee Programmes (Maharashtra) among others. 6.3

Prioritising project ideas

But what projects are likely to be important? The Working Group on District Planning (see the Hanumantha Rao Report of 1984) laid down several important principles which should be followed in deciding which project ideas to follow up. These are:

59

ƒ the highest priority should be given to schemes that are likely to generate employment. The first task is to study the existing occupations in the area, identify the constraints for their growth and seek the removal of such constraints.

o For example in the agricultural sector, if irrigation potential exists, the duration of employment of persons engaged in cultivation can be augmented through an increase in the intensity of cropping. The planner must also ensure that more than a proportionate share of water accrues to the poorer farmers. ƒ

the next choice are complementary and supplementary investments that will maximise the yield potential of past investments. Complementary investments could include a small infrastructure provision like a "milk route" or those that provide the necessary forward (through outputs) or backward (through inputs) linkages to an existing key programme in the area. o For example in the case of animal husbandry programmes, such linkages could be in the form of fodder development, cattle feed units, chilling and processing plants for milk and dairy products and dairy marketing through cooperatives.

Thus only after fully exploiting the stretch potential available in the existing schemes to the maximum limit and doing all that is possible to supplement the income of the people in their existing occupations should the search be directed towards new schemes. ƒ

a third kind of choice involves bringing into use resources which have been neglected because they were believed to be unproductive- Special mention may be made of common assets usually in the hands of the Government or the panchayats. o For example, in some districts there may be large areas of such land usually envisaged to be unproductive, including scrub or jungle under the forest department. Such lands may become the base for a fodder tree or a horticulture programme which can be of help to poorer families through the animal husbandry programme. Similarly, brackish waters can be planned to benefit poor fishing families. Tank renovation is another example.

ƒ

6.4

choices based on the reflection of expressed needs from Panchayats (see the procedure described in chapter 3).

Designing a new project

Once a project has been identified, the next task is to design the project plan.

60

Definition Project plan

The project plan is a concise statement of the background to the project, what it is intended to achieve, what the main inputs and expected outputs are, what risks if any are involved and what benefits are expected. The project plan will aid competent authorities to make a decision.

There are two steps in designing a new project. Step 1: identify what needs to be done to reach the objectives of the project. This can be found out by applying a method called the logical framework to the data obtained so far or which can be obtained from the district technical departments. Definition Logical framework The logical framework is a table with 3 columns. In the first column the planner lists the project's objectives, outputs and inputs in that order; and in the second and third column the planner describes the indicators or benchmarks of achievement that will be used for each stage and any risks or assumptions involved.

The logical framework is useful because it helps the planner to work systematically through from objectives to inputs in a way that can later be set out as a plan. Begin by drawing up a table following Format 6.1. Format 6.1 The logical framework table Summary

Indicators

Objectives Outputs Inputs

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Risks and assumptions

Procedure Beginning at the top, attempt to fill in each section as follows: ƒ

The first task is the objective(s) of the project. What the project is intended to do must be spelled out as precisely as possible. If there are many objectives, it may be useful to divide them into long term objectives and short term objectives.

ƒ

Then fill up the indicators and risks/assumptions columns. Indicators are those things that can be measured to show progress in the achievement of objectives. For example, if the project is intended to improve literacy, then the most important indicator is the percentage of literates in the target area.

ƒ

Then fill up the risks and assumptions column. These are things which are not known with certainty at present but which may affect the performance of the project. For example, our objective may be to alleviate poverty through expansion of milch cattle under the IRDP programme. The assumption here is that beneficiaries will request cattle and there are many risks for example that cattle will be maintained properly.

ƒ

Now move to the outputs row. In the left hand column fill in what is needed to get to the objectives. If the objective is to improve drinking water supply then the necessary output of the project is some sort of operating water facility, either a well or a handpump or some form of protected supply. Again, fill up the indicators and risks sections.

ƒ

Finally move to inputs. Here, technical advice may be taken. The inputs the project are those things that are need to achieve the outputs. For example, in the case of women's programme under DWCRA, construction is involved which will require building materials and labour (these may be provided by a contractor) and also lady workers must be employed. Again indicators and risks should be covered; for example, building materials not available or late sanction of project.

Now this can be illustrated with reference to the drinking water example above. Assume that a project is being designed to provide a water supply to 50 villages with Government providing materials and the villages providing labour. The logical framework for this project would be as per the illustration following:

62

Illustration The use of Format 6.1 A logical framework for a drinking water project

Indicators

Summary

Risks and assumptions

Objectives

(long term) improvement of health (short term) provision of pure water

Reduced mortality and disease improvement in water supply

Disease is caused by polluted water All sections of village can use supply

Outputs

50 handpumps providing water

Existence of pumps

Ground water sufficient to maintain flow; Maintenance available

Inputs

Handpumps Concrete Labour Drilling facility

Inputs delivered or available

Pumps available for purchase; finance sanctioned: villagers willing to provide labour

The logical framework gives the skeleton of a project, helps to ensure that nothing is missed and provides the basis for monitoring and evaluation.

Step 2: draw up the plan. A standard project layout should he used that will help the concerned authorities to decide whether to go ahead. Again, technical advice may be taken if necessary. Definition Project layout A project layout is the set of rules for laying out the details of a project plan. The best and simplest way is to use a layout which starts with the problem, goes on to objectives, describes the project and concludes with its benefits and justification.

63

A simple project layout is as follows. Complete every section in turn. ƒ

Background. Use the district analysis and strategy sections to describe the drinking water problem in general. Current government policy in regard to drinking water supply and the project area should also be described.

ƒ

Objectives. These may be taken from the logical framework but can be expanded if necessary. The time frame for the project should also be given.

ƒ

Components. Here may be given what the project involves, for example "training poor youths in vehicle repair" or "construction of panchayat ghar". The location, type and number of capital investments, production units and outputs may be given. Information for this may be taken from the outputs section of the logical framework supplemented by technical advice.

ƒ

Finance. Costs may be ascertained with reference to the inputs section of the framework and time frame. Unit cost figures may be available. The budget may be calculated with reference to these costs.

ƒ

Risks and assumptions. These may be taken from the logical framework.

ƒ

Benefits and justification. These may be compiled from the objectives section with particular reference to policy and the situation prevailing in the target area.

6.5

Analysing project feasibility

Once the plan is complete, it may need to be analysed to find out whether it is: ƒ technically feasible ƒ financially viable ƒ environmentally acceptable

The results of the analysis may be used to modify the project so that it works better. The technical feasibility of the project should be referred to the concerned department. Other questions can be dealt with by the planner using several simple techniques. 6.6 Financial analysis Definition Financial analysis Financial analysis allows to assess the cash costs and benefits of participation in the project according to the view point of the individual agents concerned.

64

The first step in financial analysis is to classify the project into two types: ƒ

production projects which aim to produce outputs which may, if offered for sale, earn profits. Production projects range from large scale industrial enterprises to household assets obtained under the IRDP programme.

ƒ

service projects aim (as the name implies) to provide a flow of services which may or may not be charged for. Typical examples of service projects include health or education projects or the provision of child welfare services under the ICDS programme.

The basic difference between the two is that production projects usually aim to make a profit or at least cover their costs. Consequently, we should try to find out whether this will happen. Service projects on the other hand do not usually try to make profits. Consequently we should try to find out whether they are technically feasible and a cost-effective way of providing a service. Financial analysis of production projects Any project involves costs while it yields benefits during its life time. Cash flow analysis of a project is a simple technique that helps us to understand how costs go out and revenues come in over the life span of a project, and whether at the end of a reasonable period of time the revenues outweigh the costs (or not). Definition Cash flow A cash flow shows year by year over the future life of a project all cash receipts and all cash payments. The difference between them is shown as the net benefit (or net inflow) to the project. There is a set of rules for constructing a cash flow for project analysis. These are: ƒ

a cash flow shows all cash receipts and payments to or from the project. Cash receipts include revenues from sales and any grants or loans received. Cash payments include the costs of building construction or the purchase of machinery, the cost of raw materials, wage labour costs and any other inputs including power and water. Working capital (which may cover some of these costs) may also be shown,

ƒ

show the cost of any capital replacements in the appropriate year, e.g. machinery replacement.

ƒ

enter all receipts and payments in the right year. The rule is when you pay (or receive) is when you put. Assets are not normally depreciated.

65

ƒ

group receipts and payments logically. Most cash flows begin with receipts (sometimes called inflows) and then enter payments (sometimes called outflows).

ƒ

do not adjust for inflation. Cash flows are usually constructed in today's prices however far in the future they go.

ƒ

work out the flow for a number of years. A ten year period is often used. Allocate a year number for each year of the project as well as a date. This will simplify matters if the project is delayed.

ƒ

finally, subtract payments from receipts to give the net benefit for each year of the project.

One question that is often asked is: why no depreciation or adjustment for inflation when it is normal accounting practice to do both of these? The answer is that a cash flow is used in project analysis to answer one question only: is the project worth doing Financially? To do this we need to know exactly what are the cash movements year by year. This is particularly true when we are dealing with local level projects when it is the cash outcome of the enterprise rather than the balance sheet value that matters to those involved. A cash flow is normally laid out according to Format 6.2. The format is given in year columns, i.e. each year is allocated to a column but the format can also be used with years allocated to rows. It is a matter of convenience.

Format 6.2 Cash flow table date year of project

19...

19...

inflows List here all cash payments into the project. Include loan receipts if applicable outflows List here all cash payments out of the project. Include loan payment if applicable net benefit Subtract outflows from inflows 66

19...

19... etc

A cash flow laid out like this serves two purposes: ƒ

it enables us to get a picture of the annual financial position of the agency concerned based on the net benefit.

ƒ

it is the basic starting point in working out several other indicators of financial performance.

In the case of most relatively small scale district level projects, the most useful indicators are: • the annual net benefit • the incremental benefit of the project. • the payback period • the average return on investment The annual net benefit of a project is given by the bottom line of the cash flow. It is the annual cash gain or loss that is expected to accrue as a result of the project. For example a project with a typical year total inflow of Rs 4,000 and a typical year outflow of Rs 2,000 will have a net benefit of Rs 2,000. The word typical in this case refers to years when returns have settled down and main investment costs have been met. ƒ

The advantage of the net benefit is that it shows the actual annual cash gain or loss from the project.

The planner should always ensure as far as possible that projects experience positive annual net benefits (cash gains) as early as possible in their life. In the case of beneficiary-oriented projects this is particularly important since many people below the poverty line have few cash resources to help tide them over early losses. The incremental benefit is a measure of the difference made by the project. It is calculated by subtracting without-project income from the net benefit. Without-project income is any income lost as a necessary result of entering the project. For example if a beneficiary gets an annual net benefit from a project of Rs 2,000 but has foregone an income of Rs 500 to take up the project, the incremental benefit is (2,000 - 500), i.e. Rs 1,500. ƒ

The advantage of the incremental benefit measure is that it shows the net advantage the beneficiary gets from the project. This enables the planner to avoid the unfortunate situation where the beneficiary is worse off as a result of joining the project.

ƒ

The planner should always ensure as far as possible that projects experience positive annual incremental benefits as early as possible. Again, this is particularly important with beneficiary-oriented projects.

The payback period of a project is the time (months or years) required to recover the entire investment cost of the project. If recovering investment costs is important (as may be the 67

case with a marginal farmer who has put his own money into the project) then, other things being equal, the shorter the payback period the better the project. The payback period can be calculated by summing all investment costs (which are usually incurred in the early years of the project) and then finding out how long it will take to accumulate this sum through net inflows. For example a project with an investment cost of Rs 10,000 and an annual net benefit of Rs 2,000 has a payback period of five years. ƒ

The advantages of calculating the payback period are: o it gives a guide to how long a loan should last o it shows how fast capital can be accumulated for further investment,

In general short payback periods are preferable. The average return on investment (ARI) is the percentage return in a typical year on the capital invested. For example the ARI for a project with an investment cost of Rs 10,000 and a typical annual net benefit of 2,000 is 20%. ƒ The advantage of the ARI is that the measure can roughly he compared with the interest payable by a bank on a similar sum.

The planner should always compare ARI results with prevailing bank interest rates. This is particularly important with larger commercial-oriented projects. The point of the comparison is that there is little gain in investing capital in a project if it can earn higher returns on deposit. An illustration of the application of these methods to a typical IRDP scheme follows; Illustration Cash flow for an IRDP fishery scheme Introduction Under IRDP, a beneficiary who is a fisherman has received a loan and subsidy (50%) for the purchase of an improved boat and diesel outboard engine. This will enable him to increase his catch considerably. He is already engaged in fishing and gets an annual income of about Rs 10,000. The cash flow is constructed for ten years. Inflows include the value of the old boat, loan receipt, subsidy and the value of fish sales. Outflows include the purchase cost of the new boat, engine, fuel and loan repayment. Interest on the loan is calculated by the level repayment method at 10% over the five years 1996-2000.

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Illustration (continued) Cash flow for an IRDP fishery scheme The use of Format 6.2 date year of project

1995 year 1

inflows sale of old boat loan receipt subsidy value of fish sales

5,000 20,000 10,000 40,000

outflows boat purchase engine purchase fuel annual loan repayment (including interest)

10,000 20,000 20,000

net benefit

1996-2000 years 2 - 6

2001-2004 years 7 - 1 0

40,000

40,000

20,000 5,676

20,000

25,000

14,324

20,000

without-project income

10,000

10,000

10,000

incremental net benefit

15,000

4,324

10,000

Illustration (continued) Cash flow for an IRDP fishery scheme As a result of this analysis we can come to the following conclusions. The annual net benefit commences at Rs 25,000 in 1994 but drops significantly to Rs 14,324 during the next five years. This is due to loan repayment. However, once the loan has been paid off, there is a significant increase to Rs 20,000. The incremental net benefit is positive in every year. Once the loan has been paid off, the beneficiary's income is doubled. The payback period is very short, just over a year, The ARI is 66% i,e 20,000/30,000. This compares well with bank interest charges which we know to be about 10%. Consequently, the financial decision on the project is that it should go ahead.

69

Financial analysis of service projects Service projects and schemes are those intended to offer a service for which often no charge (or a charge below cost) is made. Consequently, projects incur costs but no or few benefits. and there is no point in trying to estimate net benefits, The approach usually adopted is to try to measure the cost-effectiveness of the project. Definition Cost-effectiveness The cost-effectiveness of a project is measured by the balance of cost and achievement in physical terms. By and large, the more that is spent on providing services the better the quality of provision but unit costs also rise. Consequently, when we look at the costeffectiveness of different kinds of service, we are trying to estimate what is the cost per unit of physical achievement (or vice-versa) and how this might be reduced.

There are two ways of measuring the cost-effectiveness of different kinds of provision. ƒ

The first is a measure in terms of units of provision, or per unit costs. In schools, these would be places (seats), in hospitals beds (or bed-nights), in employment schemes mandays of work, in municipal markets floor space or number of trading stalls and so on. Per-unit costs should be used where the unit is a reasonably accurate measure of the only or main benefit of the service. For example, in a secondary school, the measure of benefit is the number of places (seats) it offers.

ƒ

The second method of measurement is in terms of population served by a service, or per capita costs. Per capita costs should be used where the population as a whole benefits from a service: (for example a public water supply) or where per unit costs would only measure part of the benefit (for example, rural clinics where out-patient services are as important as the number of hospital beds).

6.7

Environmental analysis

The quest for higher standards of living means deliberate modifications in the natural environment in order to achieve economic goals. But projects have often inflicted irreparable damage to the natural environment. This leads to increased costs to society in the long run. There is global awareness of these issues, not only for major projects but also for smaller rural development projects implemented at the village level. Environmental impact assessment is now mandatory before decisions are taken on many investment projects.

70

Definition Environmental impact assessment Environmental impact assessment (EIA) is designed to predict or identify the impact of a development on the natural environment and as a result man's health and well-being; and to interpret and communicate information about the impact. An environmental impact assessment accompanying a project proposal attempts not only to predict the implications of the proposed development but also lists out the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed alternative approaches if any. The objective of an EIA is to protect the environment by anticipating problems rather than applying remedial measures after the act. There is no point in crying over spilt milk since environmental damage is often irreparable. Rather it is better to avoid spilling it in the first place. The planner can carry out a simple EIA as follows: ƒ

use a checklist (Format 6.3) to find out whether the project may cause damage to the environment

ƒ

use an environmental impact assessment table (Format 6.4) to describe what this damage is likely to be and identify whether any action should be taken.

The planner should work through the checklist systematically. It may be necessary, for some aspects for which there are no easy answers, to commission studies and special investigations. However in most cases it will be possible to identify answers locally, taking advice from concerned departments where necessary. Format 6.3 Checklist of environmental concerns Question 1: what kind of area does the scheme affect? The following areas need special consideration: ▪semi-arid areas and desert margins ▪mountainous areas ▪tropical and subtropical forest ▪coastal wetlands including mangrove swamps ▪habitats providing important resources for vulnerable groups: ▪for example, tribal populations ▪national parks, nature reserves ▪areas containing endangered species ▪areas of historical, archaeological or scientific interest ▪areas of high concentration of population or industrial activity where further development could create significant environmental problems (continued on following page) 71

Format 6.3 (continued) Checklist of environmental concerns Question 2: what sort of development does the scheme involve ? Among the main categories of development initiatives with a significant impact on the environment are the following; • important policy measures like: o changes in agricultural subsidy 3 changes in industrial zoning on the outskirts of urban areas • major changes in the use of land and renewable natural resources for example: o forestry development o wasteland colonisation s resettlement o minerals development • major changes in water use for example: o major irrigation projects (including small projects localed in new command areas) 3 river basin management including the storage or diversification of water o changes in fishing practice • infrastructure development including: o mini-hydroelectric developments o roads and railways • industrial processes with toxic and hazardous waste and by-products which may contaminate air. soil or water for example: ^ paper and pulp mills o chemical plants o mining and smelting

o hides, skins or leather factories • waste management and disposal Question 3: how could it affect the environment ? The impact of development on the environment can be classified as following: • land degradation. Deforestation, soil erosion, overgrazing and salinisation are some of the consequences of uncontrolled timber exploitation, excessive abstraction of groundwater or overgrazing. • water pollution can follow from uncontrolled waste water or sewage discharge. Industrial effluents are particularly dangerous. Uncontrolled human settlements, particularly where proper services are not provided, can also contribute to water pollution, • air pollution results from traffic and uncontrolled industrial discharges into the air. • damage to wildlife can easily occur through forestry, resettlement or irrigation projects. This may have unforeseen effects including changes in food cycles: for example, many birds and animals play an important part in the control of pests. • socio-economic impact. I-'alling living standards especially among the poor can start a vicious circle which produces further environmental degradation. Forest cutting to obtain free fuel, overgrazing particularly on common lands to augment the family food supply or raise cash, soil erosion or pollution in the vicinity of urban slums are all part of this circle of causation. 72

The answers to Format 6.3 should then be used to fill up the EJA table given in Format 6.4. Notice that the last row asks what action should be taken. In the case of the environment, actions that may be taken fall into four classes: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

redesign or abandonment of the project the use of legislation or other forms of regulation to reduce environmental damage. For example, laws on pollution can he enforced to reduce smoke emission. complementary investment to reduce the impact and duration of environmental damage. For example, afforestation of headwaters to reduce erosion damage, compensation for those affected by the project.

What action should be taken is a matter for appropriate authorities to decide, but planners should be in a position to make a recommendation. Advice should also be taken, where necessary, from concerned departments. Format 6.4 Environmental impact assessment table effects during effects during early initiation/ construction stages of project phase Are the expected environmental effects harmful ? What is the scale: e.g. number of people or animals affected ? What is the expected intensity of impact, e.g. disaster, major, minor? What is the expected duration of impact? Are the effects likely to be irreversible ? How certain are the effects? Are any laws or regulations infringed ? Are there opportunities to reduce harmful effects ? Will the effects have a different impact on men and women or other social groups? Action that may be taken to counter effects 73

long term effects

The following illustration shows an EIA table completed for an aquaculture (prawn) project. This is a project which will clear currently forested land and construct ponds for the raising of prawn.

Illustration The use of Format 6.4 EIA table for an aquaculture (prawn) project. effects during initiation/ construction phase

effects during early stages of project

long term effects

Are the expected environ menial effects harmful ?

yes

yes

yes

What is the scale: e.g. number of people or animals affected ?

20 people

100 people

100 people

minor

minor

minor

What is the expected duration of the impact ?

three months

one year

long term

Are the effects likely to be irreversible ?

no

no

no

certain

certain

certain

Are any laws or regulations infringed?

no

no

no

Are there opportunities to reduce harmful effects ?

yes

yes

yes

Will the effects have a different impact on men and women or other social groups ?

no

no

no

none

reforestation in vicinity of project

What is the expected intensity of impact eg disaster, major, minor ?

How certain are the effects?

Action [hat may be taken to counter effects

6.8

action on waste disposal, i.e. prawn remnants after cleaning

Conclusion

This chapter has shown how new projects and schemes for implementation in the district can be identified and drawn up. Simple methods for analysing the project have been discussed. 74

CHAPTER 7 FINANCING THE PLAN 7,1

Purpose of this chapter

Plans need financing if they are to be implemented; and this section deals with the steps involved in identifying financial needs, resources and the allocation of the resources. Normally, government programmes within a district receive financial allocations from the State's district sector budget, or through Central assistance or a combination of both. There may also be a local discretionary budget (this varies in size and application between States). In the past, as we have seen, most decisions about the content and location of government programmes were taken either by the Centre or State Governments or by the departments. Districts had relatively little power to change these decisions. Consequently, the financing plan became more or less synonymous with the district plan as a whole and comprised a number of departmental estimates for expenditure, prepared against a previously communicated ceiling of expenditure and which would be implemented as funds became available. As per the recent Constitutional Amendments, it is mandatory to create a State Finance Commission (SFC) which would look into the financial allocations at the district level. Some changes must now be expected as a result of the Constitutional Amendments. Chapters 5 and 6 have shown how ongoing programmes can be modified or new projects identified which will enable the district to implement its own strategy for development. These changes in turn will mean that a financing plan must be drawn up which shows how these modifications and changes will be financed. This is the purpose of this chapter. By its end, the planner should have the methods needed to draw up a financing programme which can be put to the appropriate authorities for sanction. This programme is not an alternative to normal departmental budgeting - instead it is a complement which enables the planner to see the financial needs of the district plan as a whole. The purpose of the Guide is to help the planner in producing a medium-term plan for the district. It is important to be clear and consistent about long term objectives and what can be done to achieve them. Long term financial planning however rarely works. Even at national level there is always uncertainty about the funds that will be available each year for development, even Plan expenditure. This situation is magnified at district level. The annual financial ceiling provides guidance for one year, but this is subject to cuts and changes. Beyond one year, prediction is very difficult and, although financial requirements can be estimated, financial provision becomes guesswork to some extent. Consequently, this section of the Guide is designed to help the planner produce a one year financial plan, which will fund the programmes (together with their changes) and projects envisaged for the coming year. This financial plan will provide the basis for the annual action plan (see Chapter 8). It will need to be repeated each year as the new financial ceiling is notified. It is also possible to produce a perspective financial plan based upon projections of the cost of ongoing schemes and new projects but this is not discussed in this Guide.

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7.2

Layout of the chapter

This chapter is divided into four sections. • • • •

The process of financing (section 7.3) Estimation of financial resources (section 7.4) Estimation of financial requirements (section 7.4) Allocation of funds (section 7.5)

Each section introduces its own table-based method as a way of presenting and analysing the data. 7.3

The process of financing

The process of making financial allotments under different programmes of development, usually referred to as schemes, is a crucial one. At the district level it involves the interaction of a multi-tier administration and evolves a multi-level plan. The DPCC or the District Planning and Coordination Council/Committee is the decision making body. Its basic function is to finally strike a balance between the transmitted demands reflected as Departmental, District, Block and Municipal Schemes and the fund supply from different sources. The schematic representation is given in Diagram 1.

Diagram 1 - The Process of Financing

Departmental Schemes

Assigned Funds

District Schemes

Internal Resources

Block Schemes

District Planning Cell

Institutional Funds

Public Resources

Municipal Schemes

Other Funds District Planning Committee 76

The schemes or developmental programmes enter the system under primarily four heads: ƒ ƒ ƒ ƒ

Departmental Schemes District Schemes Block Schemes Municipal Schemes (recent addition as per the 74th Amendment).

The heads of departments (like Executive Engineers, Principal Agricultural Officers) decide on the departmental programmes to be undertaken at the district level. These could he based on directives from the higher administration or could be independently decided. Apart from these there are the District Schemes decided by the District Planning Cell (DPC) under the authority of the District Planning Officer, the Block Schemes chalked out by the Block Planning Committee (BPC) under the authority of the Block Development Officer and the Municipal Planning Committee (MFC) under the authority of the Chairman, Municipal Corporation. The DPC formulates its own schemes as well as the other schemes and works on a tentative solution before placing it to the DPCC where the final decisions are taken up. Each of the committees or departments also directly interact with the DPCC. The DPCC fixes up the regional and sectoral allocations and usually is assisted by the DPC in this process. These arrangements may be amended further as a result of the 74th Amendment. 7.4

Estimation of financial resources

There are several sources of funds for the district plan. These are defined as follows:

Definitions Expected financial outlays are conveyed to the district towards the end of the previous financial year. They constitute a financial ceiling for expenditure on a particular programme or scheme within which expenditure takes place. The ceiling rises if supplementary funds are made available. Expected local resource mobilisation includes local taxation by panchayat authorities, user charges for panchayat services including village markets like hats and bazaar charges, and any licence revenue. It also includes panchayat or individual cash contributions to local schemes or projects. Expected investment from public enterprises comprises all schemes for capital investment in buildings, equipment or other commercial facilities in the district. Expected institutional finance comprises the credit that will be made available by rural banks operating under the guidance of the lead bank in the district.

The first step is for the planner to obtain the necessary information as follows: 77

ƒ Expected financial outlay for the coming financial year to the district by sector or department or scheme (see also Chapter 5). This can be obtained from the concerned departments at district or State level when available. Allocations should be divided by:

o Central funds o State sector funds o District sector funds ƒ

expected local resource mobilisations for the coming financial year in the form of local tax revenues, charges etc. These should be obtained from the Zilla Parishad authorities. They should also include if possible local resources pledged by panchayats in their request proformas (see also Chapter 4).

ƒ

expected investment for the coming financial year proposed by Central or State public enterprises in the district. This should be obtained directly from the concerned authorities.

ƒ

expected institutional finance availability for the coming financial year (from the district Lead Bank). This will normally have been agreed by the District Credit Committee and may be set out in the District Credit Plan. Details will be available from the lead bank in the district. Any changes in institutional finance availability as a result of the district plan will usually have to be agreed by the District Credit Committee.

These data are then used to fill in the table shown in Format 7.1 below. This should be modified or expanded to suit the district situation. Format 7.1 Financial resources table

Centre/ State

Financial year 19..

District

Source of funds Institutional Local finance mobilisation

Agriculture and allied sector Forestry Irrigation Industry

(other rows should be inserted as necessary)

78

Public enterprises

Format 7.1 is illustrated with reference to the Agriculture and Allied Activities in the district.

Illustration The use of Format 7.1 Financial resources table for Agriculture and Allied Activities Financial year 1996 (all figures in Rs lakhs) Source of funds

Agriculture Animal husbandry Dairy Funds available from all sources

Centre/ State

District

Institutional finance

Local mobilisation

Public enterprises

120

40

200

40

-

80

20

120

40

-

60

40

140

30

60

260

100

460

110

60

Another vital feature that has to be considered in estimating the financial resource situation is the credit review. The Credit Review (Format 7.2) provides the complete picture of the committed funds from different sources and its utilisation over three time periods: ƒ

the past financial year

ƒ

the current financial year during which planning is being done

ƒ

the forthcoming financial year which is now being planned.

So, if planning was being undertaken during financial year 1995-96, the past year is 1994/95 and the year being planned is financial year 1996/97. While the committed and actual utilisation figures could be obtained for the past financial year, utilisation figures for the current year would be given based on anticipation and the forthcoming year statements would be based on the knowledge of future commitments and expectations.

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Format 7.2 Credit Review Period

Past year committed

actual utilisation

Current year committed anticipated utilisation

Forthcoming year already committed

to be identified /proposed

Source Central Sector State Sector/ Departmental Allocation District Sector Local Resource Mobilisation Institutional Finance Public Enterprises Others

7.5

Estimation of financial requirements

The basis of making financial requirement estimations is based on a Financial Review which gives an overview of the past and present allocations and achievements. The financial allocations to different sectors under various schemes is primarily based on a comparative analysis of the financial target and achievement figures. The format for the Financial Review is given in Format 7.3. As in the Credit Review, three time periods - die past financial year, the current year and the forthcoming year (now being planned) - are considered while deciding on future allocation. In past time period the target and achievement figures obtained under each sector and schemes are presented in financial terms. For the current year the target figures are incorporated while anticipated achievements are entered. However for the forthcoming year, tentative targets could be provided which are based on the knowledge of assured programmes, continuing programmes and a crude assessment of the forthcoming programmes which are to be proposed. 80

Format 7.3 Financial review Past year approved outlay

actual expenditure

Current year approved outlay

anticipated expenditure

Forthcoming year proposed outlay for continuing and new programmes

Sector or scheme Sector or scheme Sector or scheme, etc.

The next stage is to construct a total financial requirement table on the basis of Format 7.4A (total direct requirement) and Format 7.4B (total financial requirement). Note that these tables are linked in that the result of 7.4A is copied into 7.4B.

Definition Financial requirement The total direct financial requirement is the proposed outlay by government (central, State and district sources) on a programme or sector. It includes provision for new schemes and projects. This is added to credit, institutional and local resource mobilisation requirements to give the total financial requirement.

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Format 7. 4 A Total direct requirement Programme/ scheme

Anticipated expenditure current year

plus changes equals sanctioned by continuing district direct requirement

plus new schemes/ projects

equals total direct requirement

Format 7.4B Total financial requirement Programme/ Total direct scheme requirement (from 7.4A)

plus local resources

plus institutional total financial finance requirement

Completion of Formats 7.4A and 7.4B involves the following steps: Step 1: for each ongoing programme, ascertain current year's approved outlay and anticipated expenditure. Ascertain which is the best basis for identifying the forthcoming year's requirement. It may be that exceptional circumstances delayed disbursement this year and approved outlay would be a better basis for estimating the forthcoming year's requirement. Equally, anticipated expenditure may be the correct figure to carry forward. ƒ for example assume approved outlay and anticipated expenditure in current year for Agriculture and Allied Sector are the same: Rs 120 lakhs

Step 2: adjust this for inflation for the forthcoming year. ƒ for example assume the expected inflation rate is 10%. Then

direct financial requirement = 120 x 1.1 = Rs 132 lakhs Step 3: then adjust continuing programmes where appropriate for: 82

ƒ

the changes and modifications if any notified by the State/Central Governments

ƒ

the changes and modifications agreed by the concerned District authorities following discussion of the results of Chapter 5. In some cases programmes/schemes will be increased somewhat and others will need to be reduced.

ƒ

for example assume that District authorities have agreed that government expenditure on Agriculture and Allied Sector should be increased by 10% to meet the objectives of the new district plan. These funds would be used to expand certain State schemes. Direct financial requirement should then be adjusted as follows:

direct financial requirement = Rs 132 lakhs x 110% = Rs 145.2 lakhs Step 4: add the expected costs to be borne by government of any new programmes or schemes agreed by the concerned District authorities following discussion of the results of Chapter 6. ƒ for example assume that it has been agreed that a new project will be started with an expected cost in the first year of Rs 10 lakhs

Then direct financial requirement — 145.2 + 10 - Rs 155.2 lakhs Step 4: add those costs that are expected to be borne by local resources. These should match the figures in the sources of Funds statement. ƒ for example assume that local resources are expected to provide Rs 20 lakhs

Total financial requirement = Rs 155.2 + 20 = Rs 175.2 lakhs Step 5: add institutional and public enterprise contributions. Institutional funding will need to have been agreed by the District Credit Committee and should match expected outlays in the updated District Credit Plan. ƒ for example assume that these come to Rs 80 lakhs Then total financial requirement = Rs 175.2 + 80 = Rs 255.2 lakhs.

7.6

Allocation of funds

The allocation exercise involves matching expected financial resources to a set of demands which would have to be met to the maximum possible extent. Usually the demand for funding exceeds funds available and so rationing is necessary. In theory there are ways of reaching an optimal solution but in the average district with a large number of blocks, sectors, departments and schemes there are too many pressures and interests to reach a such a perfect solution. Hence the approach that is taken up is participatory. The exercise described here is to be undertaken by the DPC(C) based on the outline plan prepared by the DPC and with 83

representatives from different levels like the Zilla Parishad, District Administration, Block Panchayat Samiti, the Departments, Municipalities, Experts and Bank officials. It is a democratic process where each and every member places their views and solutions are ultimately reached through, "conflict resolution" and negotiation (see Chapter 8). Consequently, it is impossible to lay out rules for the allocation process. However, during negotiations, certain important principles (see below) should be kept in mind. Principles of allocation ƒ

Priority should be given to those programmes and schemes which the district believe will help to meet agreed district objectives (see Chapter 4).

ƒ

Central and State priorities should also be taken into account.

ƒ

In selecting programmes and schemes for priority, attention should be given to their consistency, their effect on disparity and their linkages with other schemes and sectors (all covered in Chapter 5)

ƒ

Within this category, priority should be given to continuing programmes if possible. The existence of ongoing developmental programme in a particular block or sector definitely acts as a positive factor in allocation in favour of that block or sector. Other things being equal, it is better to continue programmes already under way since funds have already been spent. However, bear in mind what is known about success or failure of continuing programmes.

ƒ

Thought should also be given to new programmes or projects where it is clear that existing ones are not completely satisfactory.

ƒ

In allocating funds to blocks, bear in mind general allocation criteria (like population, area, SC/ST concentration etc.). In particular, account should be taken of the development level and of disparity reduction. A major objective of any planning is to increase the rate of development and reducing the extent of disparity. Hence more funds should be allocated towards blocks where disparity exists and sectors and schemes which have the potential for uplifting the level of development and reducing disparity.

ƒ

Resources permitting, blockwise fund allocations should not diminish over time. However, sectoral allocations may or may not diminish over time depending upon priorities agreed.

After considering all these factors the final allocations are made, using Format 7.5. This involves the following steps:

84

Step 1: allocate funds available (see 7.3) for each programme/scheme and calculate deficit. Step 2: if the total deficit for the district is less than 10% of total requirement, reallocate finances taking funding from other programmes/schemes. Pay particular attention to those schemes where expected disbursement is likely to be delayed or rates of achievement low. Step 3: if the total deficit is expected to be greater than 10%, allocations will need to be reviewed by the concerned authority.

Format 7.5 Allocation of funds table Programme/ scheme

Direct requirement

Local mobilisation required

Instil, finance required

Direct fund available

Local mobilisation available

Instil, finance available

Deficit

Step 4: it would be judicious to further disaggregate the allocations made in the previous step by sectors and blocks (Format 7.6).

85

Format 7.6 Major sectoral outlay by blocks Name of Block District total

Sector

Totals by block and district

7.7

Conclusion

This Chapter has discussed simple procedures for laying out the financial requirements of the district plan, balancing these against expected allocations and coming to an agreement on the reallocation of resources.

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CHAPTER 8 PUTTING THE PLAN INTO PRACTICE

8.1

Purpose of this chapter

The final step in the planning process is to establish the conditions under which: ƒ

the district plan is capable of being implemented

ƒ

the district plan is likely to be implemented, that is, all concerned functionaries and representative bodies are committed to putting the plan into action.

There are important differences between these objectives. There have been good manuals on planning practice written in India and abroad and good plans have been prepared. District bodies in India and abroad have declared themselves willing to implement the plan. And yet plans however good have not materialised into action. Why should this be and how might things be improved ? There are several reasons why plans fail to be implemented, and this Guide has tried to take these into account when being written. The reasons are: ƒ

they are too long, excessively technical and difficult to understand

ƒ

they spend too much time on data about the district and not enough on what should be done and where

ƒ

even when they discuss what should be done, they assume that a district plan starts with a completely clean slate. In reality, most programmes are ongoing and can only be changed slowly if at all

Chapters 3 to 7 have tried to circumvent these problems by simplifying the planning process, reducing to a minimum the amount of data needed and concentrating on the practical problems of deciding how to adjust existing programmes to obvious district objectives, But there are other reasons why district plans fail to be implemented which are not connected with the plan itself. These reasons are to do with the way district administration and district politics work and the effects of both of these upon planning. Many districts in India are characterised by: ƒ

politicians who attempt to serve their constituency (i.e. the people who elected them) as best they can while ignoring other concerns. While there is nothing wrong with this proper expression of democracy, it makes representative bodies into forums where constituency interests predominate and collective concerns are overshadowed. 87

ƒ

administrators who change frequently: as a result, the administrative commitment to have a plan prepared and see it through to implementation is disturbed by constant transfers and new faces.

ƒ

technical officers-who prefer to follow guidelines from State or Centre and are reluctant to innovate or consider change even if district preferences have been clearly identified.

It is probable that this environment will change. Indeed it must if the objectives of decentralisation contained in the Constitutional Amendments are to be achieved. But it is only realistic to assume that these problems will continue and that they will continue to affect planning implementation. Therefore, the planner needs to acquire certain skills and work in ways that deal with these problems and bring the district plan closer to realisation. The skills and techniques needed to put the plan into action are: ƒ

the ability to work to a schedule that fits in well with the district's own annual cycle of operations

ƒ

the ability to lay-out the plan in a readable and concise form that lends itself to the preparation of annual action plans

ƒ

the ability to negotiate the implementation of the plan with all concerned parties: reconcile the different interests that are involved; and create a commitment to implementation within the district as a whole.

This chapter deals with these needs. 8.2

Layout of the chapter

The chapter is divided into three further sections: ƒ

operationalising the planning process. Operationalising in this context means setting up a simple planning office within the district capable of producing the plan document and drawing up a calendar for work, both on an annual basis and for a medium-term perspective plan for five years.

ƒ

laying out the plan document. Whilst flexibility is important, there are advantages in a plan that is systematically and clearly laid out so that all can understand it.

ƒ

negotiating the plan. The final section offers some advice about the task of negotiation: reconciling interests and creating a sense of commitment to the plan's proposals. 88

8.3

Operationalising the planning process

The emphasis in this Guide is that planning should be as simple and transparent a process as possible. Definition Transparency People are often suspicious of planning for two reasons: ƒ

they do not understand the procedures behind the process of planning. Complicated language, mathematical formulae, diagrams and graphs as well as excessive length add to confusion and hence to suspicion.

ƒ

became they do not understand the procedures, people often read ulterior motives into the plan which are not there. They suspect that the plan serves special interests, whether of particular groups in society or simply the convenience of the administrators. They find it difficult to believe that the plan has been prepared for the good of the district as a whole.

Consequently, a plan should be as transparent as possible. This means it should be clear why the plan has been prepared; what kind of data and other information (e.g. requests from panchayats) has been used; how the plan has reached its conclusions; and how and where the plan has been discussed and agreement reached.

Because the procedures used are simple, the planning office needs few staff and simple equipment. A specifically appointed planning officer with relevant qualifications and experience (for example, in administration, planning itself, economics and statistics) is an advantage although the Planning Guide is designed to be used by those new to the subject. Additional staff to help with data collection, data analysis, touring and discussion and plan preparation are also advantageous. The equipment needed includes simple data processing equipment (calculators) and tools for map preparation including a map table (tracing table). However, both the data specified by this Guide and the formats it uses are designed to be computerised. All can easily be entered into any of the currently popular spreadsheets or database packages (for example Lotus 123 and dBase). This would speed up the work. A working calendar needs to be drawn up. This Guide is designed to produce a district plan for a period of at least five years together with a one year financial plan upon which annual action plans will be based. The plan itself is designed to be produced in the first year of this five year period.

89

Definition Annual action plan Annual action plan is a document listing out the activities to be carried out to achieve the specific objectives within the coming financial year. This manual does not deal with action plans in detail since most districts in India are familiar with their preparation and a common format (which combines an introduction with departmental and other programmes) is well understood. The main modification which would be useful would be an expanded introduction which describes the district plan's objectives, summarises progress so far and discusses changes this year (for example further expansion of programmes or new projects) in the action plan.

Subsequent years should he used for updating the data base and monitoring implementation. An illustration of such a working calendar is given on the following page. 8.4

Laying out the plan

A single plan document is essential. Although it should be short, it should contain enough data and discussion to show how its conclusions have been reached (see the definition of transparency above). The following format is recommended: ƒ

introduction: describing the purpose of the plan and the broad outline of the planning process. Include sections on: o the role of the plan in district development o very simply, how data are collected and analysed. Reference to important matrices help but excessive technical description will hinder understanding. o briefly, how consultation and decision making are carried out. o how the plan will be implemented via action plans.

•

district summary tables and district profile together with base maps. These are discussed in Chapter 3.

•

district objectives laid out in sequence with the reasons for each. The material for this comes from Chapter 4.

•

district programmes: each described briefly together with proposals for change or modification. This section is based upon Chapter 5.

•

ideas for new projects. These will probably still have to be worked out in detail and introduced as the plan is revised. Procedures are described by Chapter 6.

•

how the plan will be financed for the coming year based upon the summary tables in Chapter 7. 90

Illustration Working calendar for a district Tasks to be performed Year 1 By July

The State Planning department indicates the financial ceiling for the annual plan for Zilla Parishads and Panchayats.

By first week of August

Gram sabha identifies programmes and sends them to Panchayat Samitis.

By middle of August

Panchayat Samitis send them on to Zilla Parishad with their recommendations.

By the end of September

Zilla Pafishad prepares a district plan and sends it to the Planning department and heads of various departments at the state level.

By the end of October

The State Development Council tentatively finalizes the District Plan.

By mid-November

The State departments consolidate the Zilla Parishad schemes and build them into sectoral programmes. The resultant draft annual Action Plan is sent to the National Planning Commission which fixes the State Plan outlays and discussions are conducted with the state officials.

By January-February

By first week of March

Based on the discussion, modifications, if any, are made and state budget is presented to the legislature.

April onwards

The District Plan is implemented

Year 2 April to June

Update the District data. Monitor progress of Action Plan and commence the preparation of shelf of new projects.

By September

Prepare the District Plan for second year.

Year 3 April to June

Carry out mid-term review of progress and prepare modifications to the District Plan and forward it to State Planning department.

July to September

Prepare the Action Plan for the third year as per above guidelines.

Year 4 As year 2. Year 5

Same as in year 2. The updating of data base to commence in this year and also simultaneously the plan document for the fifth year to be prepared.

Year 6

The achievements and feedbacks are taken into account in redrafting the District Plan for the sixth year following the calendar of the first year.

91

8.5

Negotiating and reaching an agreement on the plan

As the opening section of this Chapter emphasised, implementation of the district plan will depend upon successful negotiation.

Definition Negotiation Negotiation is the process by which the differences are discussed, common grounds are identified, adjustments are made and agreement is reached. A plan rests upon assumptions of common goals and ways of reaching those goals. If the plan takes as one of its objectives the provision, as rapidly as possible, of clean drinking water to every village or a push towards universal adult literacy, the assumption is that all agree that clean water or literacy are both desirable and important enough to claim scarce resources. This will not be (he case; not all will agree. Whether at panchayat level or in the district administration, there will be strongly expressed opinions about whether these objectives are really of primary importance or whether other directions should be taken. There will be competing claims for different villages or blocks. It is impossible to force a plan upon the public. Rather, the planner, working with the district administration and peoples' representatives needs to be able to secure agreement by persuasion that the plan is fundamentally sound and by compromise on its details. As many interests as possible will have to be reconciled if agreement is reached.

Who is likely to be involved in negotiation ? The structure of decision making at district level is uniform across the States and the finalised district plans must be discussed and approved by a district body which may: ƒ ƒ

combine elected, nominated and departmental members in the District Planning Committees predominantly elected. The obvious example of this kind of body is the Zilla Parishad.

The district planner is likely to have the task of presenting plan proposals to either body and help them to come to an agreement. There are two kinds of negotiation: ƒ ƒ

positional bargaining interest-based bargaining. 92

Positional bargaining This type of negotiation assumes that interests are fundamentally different, but that trade-offs (i.e., movement on one difference is rewarded by movement on another) are possible. The opening positions of all the parties to the negotiation reflect their differences: as discussion continues, each parties concede a little ground until agreement is reached. All lose a little but this is outweighed by the value to all of reaching agreement. Bargaining over goods in a market or bazaar is an example of positional bargaining. In most cases, the buyer ends up paying more than his opening offer but still thinks the agreed price worth paying - and viceversa in the case of the seller. Interest-based bargaining This type of negotiation assumes that interests are not fundamentally different but that there are common interests and needs. Once these have been clearly identified, the parties to the negotiation jointly search for a variety of settlement options that will satisfy everybody. Trade-offs may be made but these do not necessarily involve losses; and trade-offs may well be seen in hindsight to have led to a wiser decision. The negotiation process Planners are not usually in a position to bargain positionally. They have little power and less assets to trade and their contribution to negotiation must be one of facilitating compromise. The assumption is usually made in the public sector that there are common beliefs, expectations and goals. These are embodied in the Constitution, in Central and State Government policy and in much of public debate including discussions in the press. The relief of poverty, the generation of employment, the reduction of sickness, the widening of human opportunity are all things which most people in India will accept and strongly support. Where therefore proposals in the plan are directed towards these things, it should be assumed that there is common ground and negotiation should be carried out in a way that gets there. There are several steps in interest-based bargaining: ƒ

identify as far as possible the common ground upon which there is agreement.

ƒ

begin the discussion with a statement of this common ground: for example when a drinking water programme is being discussed, introduce the facts of the situation in the district and why further provision should get priority.

ƒ

make sure that all parties are informed about individual concerns and interests.

ƒ

state the problem at issue - try to frame it in a way that it can be solved without anybody losing.

ƒ

identify general criteria that must be present in an acceptable settlement.

ƒ

keep as many options as possible on the table. 93

ƒ

work towards agreement. This involves: o use the agreement-in-principle process (that is, come to a general level of agreement and then deal with detailed problems and differences) o try to reduce tension and to dispel individual feelings of being exposed to criticism or under pressure to agree o demonstrate trust: put yourself in a position where you occasionally give way without reward o listen and make sure all involved are aware that their position and interests are being carefully considered

ƒ once agreement has been reached, identify what the agreement involves, restate the content and write it down.

But interest-based bargaining has to co-exist in the real world with positional bargaining. It is important for the district planner to know what the latter approach entails. It has the following characteristics: ƒ

the other negotiator(s) are opponents: be hard on them,

ƒ

a win for one means a loss for the other

ƒ

the goal is to win as much as possible

ƒ

concessions are a sign of weakness

ƒ

there is a right solution - mine.

This is an exaggerated description perhaps, but one that is recognisable in real life. The positional bargainer operates in certain ways. These are: ƒ start by asking as much as possible: this is used to identify everybody else about what is desired or to identify how far they will have to move to reach an acceptable settlement. ƒ keep quiet about what will be acceptable: secretive and non-trusting behaviour hides what the bottom line really is. ƒ bluff if necessary: this is used to make other negotiators grant concessions based on misinformation. ƒ make incremental concessions if one has to: these are small benefits used to bring negotiators together. ƒ cling to the bottom line as long as one can while making it as hard as possible for others to push further. The planner's task is to recognise the situations where positional bargaining of this kind is taking place, to confine it to areas where it is probably unavoidable, and to steer the negotiation as far as possible back to the search for compromise, 94

8.6

Conclusion

In this final chapter, we have reviewed some of the tasks facing the planner once the main body of the plan is complete. In particular, the operational requirements of planning have been discussed and the complex problem of negotiation taken up.

95

TRAINING MATERIALS FOR AGRICULTURAL PLANNING

No 1

CASE STUDY - South Nyanza Sugar Project - Kenya, 1983

No 2

CASE STUDY - Dakawa Rice Farm Project - Tanzania, 1983

No 3

-

CASE STUDY - Mkata Ranch Project - Tanzania, 1983

No 4

-

Proceedings of the FAO/EADB In-Scrvicc Training Course on Project Analysis - 1983

No 5

-

Note on Monitoring and Evaluation Terminology - 1983

No 6

CASE STUDY - Ondo State Opticom Centres - Nigeria, 1983

No 7

CASE STUDY - Waling Lift Irrigation Project - Nepal, 1983

No 8

-

ETUDE DE CAS - Projet de developpemenl de la production alimenlaire en Casamance Senegal, 1983 (non disponible)

No 9 No 10

CASE STUDY - Waling Lift Irrigalion Project - Dasi Project Analysis - Nepal, 1983 -

Schema theorique dc deroulemcnt d'une operation dc dcveloppemenl rural, 1983

No 11

CASE STUDY - Credit and Marketing Project for Small-Holders in Swaziland, 1985

No 12

Training in Policy Impact Analysis - Preliminary Plan of Action for an FAO Training Programme, 1988

No 13

-

CASE STUDY - On Credit for the Wadi Arab Dam Area - Jordan, 1988

No 14

-

Policy Analysis for Food and Agricultural Development : Basic Data Scries and their Uses, 1988

No 15

-

Structural Adjustment Programmes in Sub-Saharan Africa, 1989

No 16

-

Identification and Appraisal of Small-Scale Rural Energy Projects, 1989

No 17

-

Design of Monitoring and Evaluation Syslems (Corum-Cankiri, Turkey), 1989

No 18

-

Linkages between Policy Analysis, National Planning and Decentralized Planning for Rural Development, 1989

No 19

-

Manuel de preparation dcs micro realisations, 1988

No 20

-

Preparac.ao participativa dos projcctos de dcsenvolvimenlo agricola/rural: metodologico, 1988

No 21

-

Rural Area Development Planning; A Review and Synlhcsis of Approaches, 1990 (E/F)

Documento

DOCUMENTS FOR CAPPA (Computerized system for Agricultural and Population Planning Assistance and training) 96

No 22

-

CAPPA Manual, 1992 (E/F/S)

No 22/1

The use of scenarios in agricultural sector analysis - The CAPPA system and other approaches, 1991 (E/F/S/A)

No 22/2

Setting targets for agricultural planning: From macroeconomic projections to commodity balances: an illustration with the CAPPA system, 1991 (E/F/S/A)

No 22/3

Reference international data for CAPPA applications, 1992

No 22/4

Projection of agricultural supply in CAPPA, 1991 (E/F/S)

No 22/5

A case study of the use of the CAPPA system: Cappa - Ghana, 1993

No 22/6

Analysis of a Cappa Scenario, 1993 (E,F)

No 22/7

Population et main d'oeuvre dans CAPPA, 1994

No 23/1

Energy for Sustainable Rural Development Projects - A Reader, 1991

23/2 No 24

" -

"

"

- Case Studies, 1991

Guide pour la formation de formateurs, 1991

No 25

Structural Adjustment and Agriculture, Report of an In-service Training Seminar for FAO Staff, 1991

No 26

Planification r^gionale du secteur agricole: Notions et techniques economiques, 1991

No 27/1 27/2

-

Rural Area Development Planning: Principles, Approaches, and Tools of Economic Analysis. Volumes 1 and 2. 1991

No 28

Programmation et preparation de petites operations de developpement rural, 1992

No 29

Training for Decentralized Planning: Lessons from Experience, 1987 (E/F)

No 30

Economic Analysis of Agricultural Policies:

A Basic Training Manual wilh Special

Reference to Price Analysis, 1992 (E/F/AJ-') No 31

Agricultural Price Policy: Government and the Market, 1992 (E/F)

No 32

L'approche gestion des terroirs: ouvrage collectif. 1993

No 33

Trainer's Guide: Concepts, Principles, and Methods of Training with Special Reference to Agricultural Development, 1993

No 34

-

Guidelines on Social Analysis for Rural Area Development Planning, 1993

No 35

-

Note de m£thodologte generale sur 1'analyse de filiere: utilisation de Panalyse de filiere pour 1'analyse economique des politiques, 1993 97

No 36

Analyse de filiere: application a I'analyse d'une filiere d'exportation, 1993

No 37/1

-

District Planning: Lessons from India - Planning Guide, 1995

No 38/1 38/2

-

Sustainability Issues in Agriculture and Rural Development Policies - A Training Package. Volumes 1 and 2, 1994

Copies of these materials can be requested from: Distribution and Sales Section FAO Via delle Terme di Caracalla 00100 Rome, Italy providing full details on title and number.

98