Answer:

Introduction             

The assertion that “Policy making should not only be need-based but also empathy-driven” highlights the significance of weaving emotional intelligence into policy development. Even Gandhiji’s view that “A nation’s greatness is measured by how it treats its weakest members” reflects the crucial role of empathy in crafting policies that are not only efficient but also humane and responsive to the emotional and psychological needs of the vulnerable population.

Body 

Benefits of empathy-driven policymaking reflecting high Emotional Intelligence: 

• Inclusive Decision-Making: It ensures that the voices of marginalized and vulnerable groups are heard, leading to more inclusive decisions. Eg: provision of free LPG connections under the PM Ujjwala Yojana to women from BPL households reflects an empathetic approach towards women’s health and environmental concerns.
• Enhanced Social Cohesion: Policies rooted in empathy promote social harmony by addressing the needs of diverse groups. Example: The Right to Education Act in India, which mandates free and compulsory education for children, demonstrates empathy towards children, fostering inclusivity in the society.
• Greater Public Trust: When policies are empathetic, they build trust between the government and citizens, as people feel their concerns are genuinely addressed. Example: The Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides health insurance to millions, has increased trust in the government’s commitment to public health.
• Sustainable Development: Empathy in policymaking aligns with sustainable development goals by considering long-term impacts on society and the environment. Example: India’s National Solar Mission empathises with future generations by promoting sustainable energy sources.
• Conflict Resolution: Empathetic policies can effectively address root causes of conflicts by understanding different perspectives. Example: The revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir aimed to integrate the region more closely with the rest of India, considering the aspirations of its people.
• Economic Efficiency: Empathy-driven policies can lead to more efficient allocation of resources by targeting the actual needs of people. Example: Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) targets the actual needs of people and leads to more efficient allocation of resources.
• Enhanced Innovation: Empathy encourages innovative solutions by understanding complex human needs. Example: The Digital India initiative, by empathising with the digital divide, has spurred innovation in providing digital services to the masses.

Importance of emotional intelligence in achieving this goal:

• Enhanced Understanding of Needs: EI aids policymakers in comprehending the deeper needs and emotions of the populace, leading to more effective solutions. Eg: The Indian government’s decision to decriminalize suicide under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, shows an understanding of mental health issues, a result of high EI.
• Improved Communication: EI enables better communication with stakeholders, ensuring that policies are conveyed with sensitivity and clarity. Example: Initiatives like ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio program demonstrate effective communication, resonating with the emotional and aspirational aspects of the Indian populace.
• Stress Management: Policymakers with EI can better manage stress and maintain a calm demeanour, crucial in crisis situations. Example: The calm and composed response of the Indian government during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on lockdowns and vaccine drives, reflected high EI.
• Team Building: EI is essential for building cohesive teams within government bodies, ensuring collaborative and efficient policy formulation. Example: The collaborative efforts in the Swachh Bharat Mission, involving various government departments, demonstrated effective team building influenced by EI.
• Adaptive Policymaking: It allows for adaptability in policies, ensuring they remain relevant and responsive to changing societal emotions and needs. Eg: The rapid adaptation of digital learning initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic showcased the government’s EI in understanding the educational needs of students.
• Crisis Management: High EI in leaders is crucial for effective crisis management, as it involves understanding public sentiments and responding appropriately. Example: The Indian government’s empathetic response during natural disasters, like the Kerala floods in 2018, highlights effective crisis management.
• Ethical Decision-Making: EI fosters a strong sense of ethics in leaders, ensuring that policies are not just practical but also morally sound. Example: The introduction of the Right to Information Act in 2005 was a result of ethical decision-making, aiming to bring transparency and accountability to governance.

Examples of policies that reflected high Emotional Intelligence

• Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana: Aimed at financial inclusion, this scheme empathises with the unbanked population. By providing bank accounts to millions, the government demonstrated EI in understanding the financial challenges of the poor.
• National Food Security Act, 2013: This act aims to provide subsidized food grains to approximately two-thirds of India’s population. By addressing hunger and food insecurity, the government showed EI in responding to the basic needs of the poor.
• Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao: This campaign addresses gender inequality and the importance of education for girls. It reflects EI by understanding the societal biases against girls and promoting their empowerment.
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana: Aimed at providing affordable housing, this scheme empathizes with the shelter needs of the poor. This initiative reflects EI in understanding the importance of a secure and dignified living space for all.
• Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram: This program focuses on early detection and management of childhood diseases. By prioritizing child health, the government demonstrated EI in addressing the concerns of parents and the future well-being of children.
• Yoga Diplomacy: India’s proposal to declare June 21 as International Yoga Day at the United Nations demonstrates EI by recognizing the universal appeal of yoga for health and well-being. It has been widely accepted, with numerous countries participating annually, showcasing India’s soft power.
• Vaccine Maitri Initiative: India’s decision to supply COVID-19 vaccines to neighboring countries and others reflects EI in understanding the global need for equitable vaccine distribution. This initiative has strengthened India’s image as a responsible global player in public health.
• International Solar Alliance (ISA): The ISA, initiated by India, showcases high EI by understanding global concerns about climate change and promoting sustainable energy. Today, ISA has united over 120 countries, emphasizing India’s role in leading global environmental efforts.

Conclusion 

Thus, empathy-driven policymaking, underpinned by emotional intelligence, is pivotal for ethical, inclusive, and effective governance. By prioritizing the emotional and psychological needs of the populace, such policies not only address immediate needs but also foster long-term societal well-being and global harmony.