India, Aug. 31 -- There is something oddly disarming about watching a police officer in crisp white uniform raise his hand, not to stop you for a challan, but to offer a salute. On the buzzing stretch near Sohna Chowk last week, Gurugram's traffic police tried something unusual-"Challan Nahi, Salaam Milega." Instead of reprimanding errant drivers, they greeted those following the rules with a gesture of respect.

The idea sounds simple: shift the focus from punishment to appreciation. And for a few moments on the road, it worked like magic. A two-wheeler rider, helmet strapped neatly, was flagged down, only to nervously fumble for his licence. Instead of a fine, he received a salute. His grin stretched from ear to ear as onlookers clapped...