VS

VIVEK SINGHAIR 276· 2025

Question Q.11GS2GS2

Discuss the various administrative challenges faced by local self-governments (LSGs). What measures do you suggest for devolving administrative powers to LSGs, enabling them to function as institutions of genuine self-governance?

Open scan (p.22)

Main Body

Local self governments like PRI, ULBs, etc are formed after 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992. Administrative challenges of LSGs: (1) Lack of functionalities under LSG control (Art. 243 G & devolution of functions). (2) Lack of devolution of functions. Only Kerala and Karnataka have devolved 80% functions. (3) Lack of Revenue: LSGs depend on state and centre grants. (Accord RBI study: 80% dependency on central grants). (4) Personnel under state control: in UP, Bihar, etc - Unified personnel system. (5) Planning: dominance of political leader and bureaucracy like DM, MP, MLA, etc. (6) Lack of monitoring of scheme. Social Audit requires just 10% quorum. (7) Tied funds under central sponsored schemes. (8) MP and MLA - LADS: reduces power of local bodies in developmental functions. (9) Multiple bodies for same function like PSD, BDA, KFCB, etc.

5Planning: dominance of political leader and bureaucracy like DM, MP, MLA, etc. (6) Lack of monitoring of scheme. Social Audit requires just 10% quorum. (7) Tied funds under central sponsored schemes. (8) MP and MLA - LADS: reduces power of local bodies in developmental functions. (9) Multiple bodies for same function (PSD, BDA, KFCB, etc). Measures for genuine self-governance: a Principle of subsidiarity: devolution of functions at lower level which can be performed there. b Compulsory devolution of subject mentioned in 11th CPRE and 12th ULBs schedule. c Activity mapping: to reduce overlapping and wise coordination and convergence. d Bottom-up planning: through Gram Sabha participation. e Separate personnel system like in Rajasthan and Gujarat - recruitment and removal by local bodies. f Reformed GST: Central GST = 5%, State GST = 5%, Local GST = 2%. g Innovative funding mechanism like Municipal Bonds. Constitution has directed State to make village panchayats as unit of self-government under Article 40.
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Conclusion

Constitution has directed State to make village panchayats as unit of self-government under Article 40.

15 words

Topper

VIVEK SINGH

AIR 2762025

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

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

Local Self Government

Administrative Challenges and Devolution of Powers

Writing Stats

312

Total words

1

Paragraphs