Broadly speaking, “big government” is a political term that refers to a government that has too much influence and power over citizens. It refers to a system in which the role and influence of the government in society and the economy are extensive and expansive. The definition of big government can vary depending on the context. In the parlance of Nagaland state, big government has led to lack of accountability and responsiveness, fostering dependency and a dampening of personal responsibility.
In Nagaland, the state government assumes such a prominent role in areas such as economic planning, social welfare, healthcare, education, employment and almost all aspects of public and private life, so much so that it has become too expansive and extensive, and even overreaching. Such an expanded state has too many potential drawbacks and negative consequences associated with it, including concerns surrounding individual liberties and personal freedom. In Nagaland, big government has led to a situation that the state is now struggling to efficiently allocate resources, leading to inefficiencies and waste. A bloated public sector can strain public finances, leading to deficits and debt burdens that ultimately hamper economic prosperity.
Worst of all, it has led to lack of accountability. The larger the government, the more complex and convoluted its decision-making processes become. This can lead to a lack of accountability and transparency, as decision-making becomes concentrated in the hands of a few powerful individuals or unelected bureaucrats. The distance between citizens and their representatives grows, reducing the government’s responsiveness to the needs and concerns of the people. The result is a system that is less democratic, less adaptable, and less able to effectively serve the public interest.
An expanding government often crowds out the space for civil society, community engagement, and individual responsibility. When the state assumes a larger role in providing for citizens’ needs, there is a risk of diminishing the motivation for individuals and communities to take responsibility for their own well-being. This can erode the fabric of social cohesion and lead to a culture of dependency, where citizens rely solely on government programs instead of seeking solutions through personal initiative or voluntary associations.
While the government plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order, security, providing public goods, and addressing infrastructure deficits, the perils of big government cannot be ignored. But then, again, in Nagaland, big government is the sole provider.