Question Q.11ElucidateGS2GS2
Despite constitutional backing to the institutions of local governance, the idea of decentralisation has remained hostage to several structural bottlenecks. Elucidate. (15 marks, 250 words)
Introduction
73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments initiated era of grassroot democracy by constitutionalising panchayat and Municipality.
15 words
Main Body
Success of 73rd and 74th amendment:
1Decentralised governance with more than 4 lakh village level bodies and around 5000 Urban Municipalities. (Annual Report).
2Social justice by giving representation to Women, SC/ST. Around 14.51 Lakh Women representative in India.
3Principle of Subsidiarity: Local issues at local level and better grievance redressal.
4Participative Democracy: More and more people participate in development.
Structural Bottlenecks:
1Ineffective Devolution: Only 6 out of 29 States have transferred all 29 subjects to 3rd Tier.
2Financially Weak: Very Thin Tax Domain, Weak Internal resource generation - less taxes and poor fees collection.
3Poor Infrastructure: Around 23,000 Panchayat do not have building, Municipal Budget 1% of GDP compared to over 10% of China.
4Politicisation of Local Bodies with involvement of National level parties. Eg: Violence in Bengal Panchayat Election, Delhi Mayor Dispute.
5Bureaucratic Apathy towards Panchayat and Creation of Parallel Bodies - Jal, Electricity Board - to hinder municipalities.
6Reservation of women, SC, ST ineffective due to use of them as a mere proxy candidates.
Needed Reforms:
1Devolution of all subjects and necessary taxation powers for resource generation.
23rd ARC on Local Governance: Municipal Bond Market, Compulsory Mayor Direct Election.
3Secretariat of Panchayat for evidence based actions.
4Reduction of bureaucratic influence by simplification of process.
220 words2 paragraphs
Conclusion
Reform of 3rd tier is critical to true realisation of democracy and good governance.
14 words
- Data-backed points (4 lakh village bodies, 14.51 lakh women representatives)
- Structured with clear headings
Topper
ADITYA HRIDAY UPADHYAY
Subject & Paper
GS2GS2
Topic
Functions & Responsibilities of the Union and the States
Devolution of Powers & Finances to Local Levels & Challenges Therein
Reasons for Ineffective Performance
Writing Stats
249
Total words
2
Paragraphs
Point-wise, structured with boxed headings
Tone