All Things Policy The Blunders of Our Governments
Nov 5, 2025
Maria Ann Philip, an intern at the Takshashila Institution, joins Vanshika Saraf to dissect the intriguing themes of governmental blunders in policy-making. They explore why even well-intentioned governments make avoidable mistakes, examining the UK ID card scheme and comparing it to India's Aadhaar initiative. The conversation dives into the importance of intentions versus implementation, and highlights the significant blunders in the NHS digitalization. Their insightful discussion reveals systemic issues that lead to policy failures across democracies.
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Definition Of A Policy Blunder
- A blunder is a foreseeable, preventable policy mistake that causes failure or large collateral damage.
- It stems from institutional or human errors like groupthink, arrogance, or bureaucratic insulation.
The Failed UK ID Card Experiment
- The UK ID card scheme collected biometrics and linked them to a central registry after 7-7 and 9-11 fears.
- The program was repealed, data destroyed, and cost over £200 million with no lasting benefit.
Framing Determines Identity Tech Acceptance
- Public framing and perceived utility shape acceptance of identity systems as much as technology design.
- Aadhaar succeeded partly because it was framed as development and provided clear welfare benefits.
