Course Number: SPV 399
Course Title: Special Module in Policy Studies
Instructor: Prof. Sanjay Mitra and Prof. Upasna Sharma
Course Description:
This course introduces undergraduates to elements of policy-making and design that lead to policy success through eight real world case studies in the areas of electricity, decentralized planning, literacy, sanitation, nutrition (mid-day-meal), governance (self help groups), employment guarantee scheme, and counter-insurgency, in states in India. Through the cases the students learn about, what becomes a matter of public policy? Who or what puts an issue on the government’s institutional agenda? What design related and other factors drive the success of public policies? How do policy makers interact with the stakeholders? What role do global factors play? What could be some unintended consequences of public policies? Upon completion, students will be able to critically examine policy decisions and analyse policy documents. Though mostly practice oriented, theoretical inputs will be appropriately woven in for a holistic appreciation. This course will be an excellent introduction to advanced courses in specific areas of public policy. There will be a final exam consisting of short answer questions and a viva to test in-depth understanding (of a specific topic).