Have governments under governance become more transparent and accountable? Elucidate. (Answer in 150 words)

- Have governments under governance become more transparent and accountable? Elucidate. (Answer in 150 words)
Introduction
Governance reforms have made governments more transparent and accountable, though progress remains uneven due to institutional weaknesses, secrecy and implementation gaps.
Body
Improvements in Transparency:
1. Right to Information Act, 2005 has empowered citizens to access government records and question administrative decisions.
2. Digital Governance: Portals, e-procurement, online dashboards and Direct Benefit Transfers have reduced discretion and improved traceability.
3. Open Data and Social Audits: Public disclosure of expenditure and community monitoring have strengthened scrutiny.
4. Citizen Charters and Grievance Portals: These define service standards and enable complaints against administrative delay.
Improvements in Accountability:
1. Institutions such as CAG, Lokpal, legislative committees and judiciary provide oversight.
2. Performance-based monitoring and outcome budgeting improve administrative responsibility.
However, excessive exemptions, delayed RTI responses, weak whistle-blower protection, political influence over institutions and limited local capacity continue to restrict accountability.
Conclusion
Thus, governance has become more transparent and accountable in form and practice, but deeper institutional independence, proactive disclosure and citizen participation are needed for substantive accountability.