Citizen-Centric Governance in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: A Public Administration Perspective
The integration of AI in public administration marks a major paradigm shift in governance worldwide, but its impact on citizen-centric service delivery is still remain inadequate. This paper attempts to fill this conceptual gap by developing a conceptual framing theory that frames AI as an enabler to citizen-centric public administration and not as a tool of administrative automation. Drawing from governance theories, digital transformation and emerging literature on algorithmic accountability, this paper considers the ways in which AI can foster governance that is transparent, inclusive, responsive, accountable and welfare oriented. The paper traces the transition from traditional bureaucracy through digital governance to AI-enabled administration and discusses the opportunities and challenges in India’s governance ecosystem. The study also presents a theoretical framework that includes public value theory, the practice of new public governance, and the principles of data justice. The proposed frameworkemphasises on the constitutional accountability, participatory design and ethical safeguards as pivotal to AI deployment in public services. Policy implications shed light on the necessity of specialized regulatory framework, capacity building programs, and institutional mechanism in order for AI to both enhance and not weaken democratic values and citizens’ rights. This conceptual contribution provides guidance for both policy makers and institutional authorities in addressing the complex interplay of AI with a citizen-centric governance in developing democratic countries.