So the whole picture of the widely anticipated reform program is finally clear.

In terms of numbers, the change is minimal - there will be 27 ministry-level offices except the General Office under the State Council. The number was 28 after the last round of reshuffling in 2003.

In this sense, the well-touted reshuffle does not deliver what the more radical minds had envisaged.

But the less-than-dramatic changes in the existing layout of the central government does offer reason for optimism.

At the very least, the just unveiled roadmap of government reform reassures us the direction is right. From the rearrangements and integrations mapped out so far, we are glad to see the limelight focused on redefining functions. And such redefinition will deliver very practical benefits.

The integration of powers involving macro economic control, for example, is a sensible step to reduce conflict of interests among central government departments. The merger of the current Ministries of Personnel as well as Labor and Social Security, will solve a ridiculous separation between employment and security guarantees. Establishment of a new Ministry of Environmental Protection answers a long-term call to empower the current bureau which has been feeble in carrying out its duties.

Such modifications represent a well-thought-out formula to both press ahead with necessary reforms and keep the pain at its minimum, which is in keeping with the incremental approach of past reforms in the country. While reducing complications, such a manner of change allows plenty of room for such changes to be digested, satisfying stability concerns.

But it is important to keep in mind this is only the very beginning of deeper and broader reforms.

The physical changes in the form and number of ministries have to be supported by more substantial changes in the way they operate.

Such reforms are no doubt conducive to straightening out the stereotyped chain of command, and improving administrative efficiency. The more difficult part, however, remains behind the visible changes. If departmentalism was a problem the "super ministry" mechanism had targeted, we need more specifics about how to make sure the newly emerged administrative giants do not abuse their stronger authorizations.

We need to see practical designs honoring Premier Wen Jiabao's promise in his report to the National People's Congress to build a service-oriented government.

(China Daily March 12, 2008)