The process of making major policy decisions in a democracy involves multiple steps and institutions, reflecting the complexity of governance. This ensures that policies are thoroughly deliberated and are in the best interest of the citizens.

1. Identification of Issues

The first step in the policy-making process is identifying issues that require government intervention:

• Public Needs: Issues often arise from the needs and concerns of the public, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
• Research and Data: Government bodies may conduct research and gather data to understand the extent and implications of these issues.

2. Agenda Setting

Once an issue is identified, it must be placed on the government’s agenda:

• Political Priorities: The government assesses which issues are most urgent or important, influenced by public opinion, media coverage, and political agendas.
• Cabinet Discussions: The Cabinet may discuss various issues and decide which ones warrant further exploration and action.

3. Formulation of Policy

The next stage involves formulating the actual policy:

• Expert Consultation: Governments often consult experts, stakeholders, and interest groups to gather diverse perspectives and insights.
• Drafting Proposals: Relevant ministries draft policy proposals, outlining objectives, strategies, and expected outcomes.

4. Discussion and Deliberation

After formulating a proposal, discussions are held to refine it:

• Parliamentary Debates: Policy proposals may be debated in Parliament, allowing for input from various political parties and members.
• Committees: Parliamentary committees can review the proposal in detail, seeking expert opinions and feedback before finalizing it.

5. Approval Process

For a policy to be enacted, it needs formal approval:

• Cabinet Approval: The Cabinet reviews the final proposal, making any necessary modifications before approval.
• Legislative Approval: If the policy requires legislative action, it is presented as a bill in Parliament, where it must be debated and passed by both houses.

6. Implementation

Once approved, the policy is ready for implementation:

• Action Plans: Ministries develop action plans detailing how the policy will be executed, including resource allocation and timelines.
• Coordination Among Departments: Various government departments collaborate to ensure smooth implementation of the policy.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation

Post-implementation, the effectiveness of the policy is monitored:

• Performance Indicators: Specific indicators are established to measure the policy’s impact and success.
• Feedback Mechanisms: The government may seek feedback from the public and stakeholders to assess the policy's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

8. Review and Revisions

Based on monitoring and evaluation, policies may need revisions:

• Adjusting Strategies: If a policy is not meeting its objectives, the government may revise its strategies or seek new solutions.
• Continuous Improvement: The policy-making process is dynamic, allowing for continuous improvement based on evolving needs and circumstances.

9. Role of Institutions

Various institutions play a role in the policy-making process:

• Executive: The executive branch, led by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, initiates and formulates policies.
• Legislature: The Parliament debates and approves policies, representing the will of the people.
• Bureaucracy: Civil servants implement policies and ensure they are executed efficiently.
• Judiciary: The judiciary ensures that policies comply with the Constitution and protects citizens' rights.