Panchayat Devolution Index

In recent years, the panchayat system in India has faced numerous challenges. A government report released in 2024 marks the performance of panchayats across states. The Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj published the Panchayat Devolution Index (PDI), which ranks states based on their devolution of powers and responsibilities to local governance bodies. This index serves as important tool for understanding the effectiveness of panchayati raj institutions in India.

Panchayat Devolution Index Overview

The Panchayat Devolution Index was developed by the Indian Institute of Public Administration. It assesses panchayat performance on six parameters – framework, functions, finances, functionaries, capacity building, and accountability. The index scores states on a scale of 0 to 100. Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu ranked highest, while Uttar Pradesh and Bihar showed improvement. The national average score increased from 39.92 in 2014 to 43.89 in 2024.

State-wise Performance

The 2024 report indicates that 18 states and Union Territories improved their scores since the last index. However, 11 states recorded declines. Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Jharkhand were the lowest scorers. Among the top ten states, Maharashtra was the only one to see a decline, despite its overall ranking of fourth.

Representation in Panchayats

As of 2024, India has 2.62 lakh panchayats, an increase from 2.48 lakh in 2014. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh have the most panchayats. The average rural population per panchayat rose to 4,669. West Bengal, Assam, and Bihar have the most densely populated panchayats. The representation of women in panchayats shows progress. The national average of women representatives rose to 46.44%. Odisha leads with 61.51% female representation.

Challenges Faced by Panchayats

Funding and infrastructure remain challenges for panchayats. In 2023-24, state governments allocated Rs 47,018 crore to panchayats, but only Rs 10,761 crore was released by November 2023. Many panchayats lack basic infrastructure. Only seven states reported that all their panchayat offices were pucca buildings. In contrast, Arunachal Pradesh had only 5% of its panchayat offices as pucca.

Technology and Connectivity Issues

Access to technology is also a concern. While 12 states reported that all their panchayats had computers, Arunachal Pradesh had none. Internet access is similarly uneven; Haryana reported no internet access in its panchayats, while just 1% of panchayats in Arunachal Pradesh had internet connectivity.

Future Directions

The ongoing improvements in the panchayat system indicate a growing recognition of the importance of local governance. Continued focus on funding, infrastructure, and technology will be essential for the effective functioning of panchayati raj institutions in India.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the importance of local governance in strengthening democracy in India.
2. Critically examine the role of women in local governance and the impact of their representation in panchayats.
3. Explain the significance of the Panchayat Devolution Index in evaluating state governance. How does it reflect the decentralisation of power?
4. What are the major challenges faced by rural local bodies in India? Discuss with suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the importance of local governance in strengthening democracy in India.

1. Local governance empowers citizens by involving them in decision-making processes.
2. It encourages accountability and transparency in government functioning at grassroots levels.
3. Encourages local leadership and representation, reflecting diverse community interests.
4. Enhances service delivery by tailoring solutions to local needs and contexts.
5. Strengthens the overall democratic framework by promoting participation and civic engagement.

2. Critically examine the role of women in local governance and the impact of their representation in panchayats.

1. Women’s representation in panchayats has increased to a national average of 46.44%, enhancing gender equity.
2. Women leaders often prioritize community issues, leading to improved local governance outcomes.
3. In states like Odisha, high female representation (61.51%) has positively influenced policy decisions.
4. Challenges remain, such as lower representation in states like Uttar Pradesh (33.33%).
5. Women in governance serve as role models, inspiring future generations and encouraging social change.

3. Explain the significance of the Panchayat Devolution Index in evaluating state governance. How does it reflect the decentralisation of power?

1. The Panchayat Devolution Index (PDI) measures the effectiveness of local governance across states.
2. It assesses six key parameters, providing a comprehensive view of panchayat capabilities.
3. Higher PDI scores indicate better devolution of powers and responsibilities to local bodies.
4. The index helps identify states needing improvement, guiding policy reforms and resource allocation.
5. It reflects the commitment to decentralisation, enhancing local autonomy and responsiveness.

4. What are the major challenges faced by rural local bodies in India? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Inconsistent funding – Only Rs 10,761 crore released from Rs 47,018 crore allocated in 2023-24.
2. Lack of basic infrastructure – Just 5% of panchayat offices in Arunachal Pradesh are pucca buildings.
3. Technology gaps – No panchayat in Arunachal Pradesh had computers; limited internet access in Haryana.
4. Low capacity for governance – Many panchayats struggle with inadequate training and resources.
5. Political interference and corruption undermine the effectiveness of local governance.