A lot has been said of the initiative taken by this alliance to combat malnutrition, and the work that has gone into it, to make the citizens aware of this issue of national importance. We have traversed through many parts of India to observe the effects of malnutrition, and visited the various Integrated Child Development Scheme centres (ICDS). Whilst some of what we have seen is shocking and needs immediate intervention, there are successes achieved by the local and state governments. Our candlelight vigils, debates at public forums and interviews in the national press can create awareness, but that is all that can be achieved.

The real work is in the implementation, for which the participation of local representatives at the panchayat level, the state representatives and the national representatives is a must. We have to ensure that schemes are structured to give ownership at the local level — to the people who are the best judges of what is required — and provide funds that will help achieve clear-set objectives. This is the crucial part of the relationship, as policy without participation at the grassroots level will never work. Be it the panchayats, the local health or education committees, all must be accountable for ensuring the success of the projects, and for enrolling more volunteers. They understand what is required, have access to the local authorities and through a general guideline that is laid down at the national level know where, when and what to do.

Our job as representatives of the people in Parliament or in the state assemblies is to ensure that policy is made, resources are allocated and effective implementation carried out with accountability. This collaboration has to start at a local level and permeate to the top. It must involve citizens, elected representatives, NGOs, private concerns and government bodies. Politics has to take a back seat, while we work towards bringing economic and social benefits to the people.

... contd.