Public Policymaking in India

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Policy Environment: Interest Groups

Classification of Interest Groups

Contest over policy is the essence of democracy. The contest can be motivated by ideology or interests or both. An ideology or interest can prevail over its competitors only through organized action, and that would necessitate formation of groups. That is the reason why constitutions of democratic countries explicitly provide for the freedom to form associations, for example Article 19 of the Indian Constitution. What differentiates interest groups from political parties is that the former do not join the electoral race to win public office. However, there are examples of public interest groups turning themselves into political parties. Green Parties in Europe are a good ...