AJ

Animesh JainAIR 63

Question Q13GS2GS2

Discuss the major challenges in effective devolution of funds, functions, and functionaries to the Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India. (Answer in 250 words)

Open scan (p.29)
AnswerStrengthsGapsKeywords

Introduction

PRI were constrained through 73rd and 74th amendments by adding the (243A - 243G) to realise good governance through democratic decentralisation.

21 words

Main Body

PRI were constrained through 73rd and 74th amendments by adding the (243A - 243G) to realise good governance through democratic decentralisation.

Major challenges in effective devolution of funds, functions and functionaries:

1Devaluation is voluntary in constitution leading to its non-compliance.
2States have not devolved taxation powers on PRI & panchayats can't levy property taxes ok.
3High dependence on state box fund of 47 % dependence (CAG).
4Discouragement of State legislature over-action (Act 243k), from non-appointment non-implementation of recommendation ok.
5States have not devolved functions under Eleventh and Twelfth schedule as it would reduce its own powers of 11/2G function devolved to panchayats.
6Absence of parallel bodies leading to overlapping jurisdictions eg Water boards in cities.
7Overlapping functions of these layers of PRIs. gram sabhas, panchayats chief and Zilla panchayat - inappropriate effective planning.
8Control of Bureaucracy, Panchayat leaders visting DM office to

get regular things done comprise all their powers.

9Phenomenon of parti-panchayats dead of disempowered PRI women-fine-tuaries. system of reservation further stigmatise women leaders.
10lack of separate stall (cadre for PRI.
11lack of capacity building of staff in digital technology, financial matters ok.

Government Measures:

Rashtirya gram swaraj abhiyan
c. panchayat Project
Finance Commission tied years
Panchayat Netri project

Panchayats need to be empowered through devolution of R.F. thereby making RPSF - the 40 and Gordian govt swaraj.

234 words15 paragraphs

Conclusion

Panchayats need to be empowered through devolution of R.F. thereby making RPSF - the 40 and Gordian govt swaraj.

19 words

  • Identifies correct constitutional amendments (73rd and 74th)
  • Lists multiple specific challenges with supporting details
  • References CAG report on state fund dependence
  • Mentions specific article numbers (243k, 11/2G)
  • Provides specific example of water boards to illustrate overlapping jurisdictions
  • Identifies multiple levels of panchayat system and their overlap
  • Addresses bureaucratic control issues
  • Identifies gender-related challenges in panchayat system
  • Lists government schemes and initiatives
  • Mentions capacity building needs for staff
  • Addresses women empowerment issues

Open original scan

Page 29

Topper

Animesh Jain

AIR 63

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Federal Structure - Functions, Responsibilities, Devolution of Powers and Finances

Devolution to Local Levels

Panchayat Raj Institutions and Challenges

Writing Stats

274

Total words

15

Paragraphs

Technical, Constitutional

Tone