Democratic decentralisation in India has been an ongoing process for nearly three decades, but there is a general consensus that satisfactory progress has not yet been achieved. The 73rd and 74th constitutional amendment Acts were adopted to facilitate this process but very little actual progress has been made.
What is Democratic Decentralisation?
Democratic decentralisation is a process that involves the transfer of authority and resources from the Central Government to the elected representatives at lower levels, facilitating a greater degree of citizen participation in governance. It is important to note that devolution as envisioned by the Indian Constitution is not mere delegation. It involves the formal assignment of well-defined governance functions to local governments by law, along with the necessary financial resources and staff required for carrying out their responsibilities.
Constitutional Provisions for Local Governments
In the Constitution of India, local government, including panchayats, is considered a state subject. Consequently, the devolution of power and authority to panchayats has been left to the discretion of states. The Constitution mandates that panchayats and municipalities be elected every five years, and it encourages States to devolve functions and responsibilities to them through legislation.
Promoting Democratic Decentralisation: The 73rd and 74th Amendments
The 73rd and 74th Amendments aimed at promoting democratic decentralisation by constitutionally establishing Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India. These amendments added two new sections to the Constitution: Part IX titled “The Panchayats” (added by the 73rd Amendment) and Part IXA titled “The Municipalities” (added by the 74th Amendment).
Achievements of the Local Bodies
There have been notable achievements following the implementation of these amendments. Rising women representation is one such accomplishment, with the proportion of elected women representatives steadily increasing since the enactment of the 73rd Amendment Act. Another achievement is the creation of a healthy competitive environment among various states regarding devolution of funds, functions, and functionaries.
Challenges faced by Local Governments in India
Despite these successes, several challenges persist for local governments. These include insufficient funding, infrastructural challenges, a lack of staff, delayed elections, a downgraded role of local government, and corruption. These issues significantly hinder the effectiveness of democratic decentralisation in India.
Suggested Way Forward
Addressing these challenges requires revitalising Gram Sabhas, strengthening organisational structure for local bodies, devising comprehensive mechanisms for taxation at local levels, and ensuring adequate and timely funding. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj should monitor the release and expenditure of Finance Commission grants to ensure they are utilised properly and effectively.
Previous Year Questions from UPSC Civil Services Examination
Several questions in previous Civil Services examinations have focused on the provisions and implications of the 73rd and 74th Amendments, the objectives of Panchayati Raj system, and the fundamentals of local self-governance in India. As these topics continue to be relevant in the Indian governance landscape, it is important to have a clear understanding of them for effective preparation.
While efforts towards democratic decentralisation in India have been underway for nearly three decades, there is still much work to be done. Despite significant challenges, the achievements made thus far highlight the potential for further progress in this essential aspect of governance. With concerted efforts and strategic interventions, the goal of effective democratic decentralisation can be achieved, paving the way for more inclusive and participatory governance in India.