BharatNotes Governance
noun (usually uncountable)Usage in a UPSC answer
Good governance is not merely the efficient delivery of services but the institutionalisation of transparency, accountability, and citizen participation, ensuring that the exercise of state power remains both responsive and answerable to the governed.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
govern (v), government (n), governor (n), governable (adj), ungovernable (adj), misgovernance (n)
Root
Latin gubernāre = to steer/rule; Greek kubernan = to steer; via Old French gouvernance
Etymology
From Middle English governaunce, from Old French gouvernance, from governer ("to govern"), ultimately from Latin gubernāre ("to steer, rule"), from Greek kubernan ("to steer"); first attested in English around 1384.
Memory Hook
From the same root as "cybernetics" — both come from Greek kubernan, "to steer a ship". Picture a captain steering the ship of state: GOVERNANCE is the act of steering an organisation or nation.
Seen in UPSC Question Papers
- Prelims 2013 — Governance & Tribal Welfare
- Prelims 2012 — Governance & Inclusive Development
- Mains 2024 · GS2 · 10 marks — Indian Polity
- Mains 2024 · GS2 · 15 marks — Governance
- Mains 2024 · GS2 · 15 marks — Governance
- Mains 2024 · GS4 · 10 marks — Probity / Code of Ethics
Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Governance” — proof this word earns its place on your list.
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