'Delegation does not mean abdication'.
Which of the following best describes the above statement?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Manager remains accountable for the performance of assigned task
Option (1) Manager remains accountable for the performance of assigned task — Correct. Delegation does not mean abdication, which would be giving up the responsibility completely. A manager can pass on work and authority, but the manager shall still be accountable for the performance of the assigned tasks.
Option (2) Manager is not responsible for the assigned task — Incorrect. It is the opposite of the statement. The manager is still answerable.
Option (3) Manager has a right to take action — Incorrect. This describes authority, not the meaning of the statement.
Option (4) Manager has an obligation towards his subordinate — Incorrect. Accountability flows upwards, to the superior. It is not an obligation to the subordinate.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Delegation … Delegation helps a manager to extend his area of operations as without it, his activities would be restricted to only what he himself can do. However, delegation does not mean abdication. The manager shall still be accountable for the performance of the assigned tasks. Moreover, the authority granted to a subordinate can be taken back and redelegated to another person. Thus, irrespective of the extent of delegated authority ,the manager shall still be accountable to the same extent as before delegation.” |