In a first-of-its-kind exercise, the Centre has reviewed the performance of ministries and departments on important administrative parameters such as disposal of files, handling of public grievances and timely replies to Cabinet notes. The assessment was presented during a Council of Ministers meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday.

The rankings were shared by Cabinet Secretary T. V. Somanathan as part of an effort to improve accountability within ministries and encourage quicker decision-making and better grievance redressal. According to reports, ministries were assessed separately under different administrative categories instead of being given one overall ranking.

" … There was no overall ranking of ministries on all the parameters put together. The PM instructed all ministers and officers to fast-track decision making for public good and there is room for any delay or lethargy in taking quick action," TOI quoted an official as saying.

The review covered the ministries’ performance during 2025. Reports said the ministries of consumer affairs, coal, power and health emerged among the stronger performers across different categories. The consumer affairs ministry was rated highly for grievance resolution and for handling issues linked to the West Asia conflict. The coal ministry received top ratings for file clearance and administrative management. The power and health ministries also performed well in several areas assessed during the exercise.

The initiative is being seen as a major step towards improving the efficiency of governance. The review focused on how ministries function on a daily basis and how quickly they respond to issues affecting citizens. Officials believe the exercise will increase pressure on departments to reduce delays and improve coordination.

Following the presentation, several ministers reportedly held meetings with their officials to review their departments’ functioning. More such meetings are expected in the coming days as ministries try to identify bottlenecks and improve their performance.

During one such review meeting, Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reportedly instructed officials to ensure that farmers and economically weaker sections do not face unnecessary difficulties while trying to resolve their issues. He stressed that grievance redressal must remain the highest priority and asked officials to work more efficiently.

The Council of Ministers meeting held on May 21 lasted nearly four-and-a-half hours and was attended by Cabinet ministers, ministers of state with independent charge and ministers of state. It was the first meeting of the Council this year. Discussions during the meeting mainly focused on governance reforms, ease of living and the broader roadmap for Viksit Bharat 2047.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed that governance should focus on making life easier for citizens. He asked ministers to ensure that welfare schemes reach the maximum number of beneficiaries and that government departments function more effectively.

“Viksit Bharat 2047 is not just a slogan; it is our commitment," the Prime Minister said.

He also urged ministries to speed up decision-making and avoid unnecessary delays in processing files. The Prime Minister called for simpler administrative procedures and said reforms should remain a priority. According to reports, he emphasised that quick action and efficient governance are necessary to improve public service delivery.

The exercise marks a significant attempt by the Centre to closely monitor the working of ministries beyond policy announcements. By reviewing administrative efficiency and grievance handling, the government aims to create a more responsive system. The performance assessment is also expected to encourage ministries to work with greater accountability and improve service delivery for citizens.