The District Planning Committee (DPC) was envisioned as a key instrument to strengthen grassroots-level planning. How far has it succeeded in achieving this goal? Discuss the challenges faced by DPCs and suggest measures to make them more effective.
Introduction
Success of DPC: 1. Enhanced representation and voice of the panchayats and urban bodies in planning.
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Main Body
The 73rd/74th amendment of 1992 provided for PRI-Guide ULBs as institutions of self-government. It provided for District Planning Committee. DPC composition: 4/5th of members reserved for PRI/ULO proportionate representation; 1/5th nominated by State govt.; Some headed by the district commissioner (DC/PM). Provides planning at grass-root levels.
2. Bring planning closer to people - Needs and better neglected smarticities project. 3. The role of panchayat is taken into consideration - Historically neglected leading to uniform developed policy. Challenges: Dominance of urban bodies; Growing urban grievance from union; Lack of 3Fs and F funds; Functionaries and functions; Now: Functionality. Tied funds leading to underutilization. Lack of financial devolution by state govt. Timely elections - not carried out.
Conclusion
Measures Needed: 1. Including them in urban planning satellite Town Periurban planning. 2. Timely elections to increase the turnover in the institution. 3. Balanced approach equal footing to both ULBs and PRI mandating fixed amount of devolution under Finance Commission Vijay Kelkar Committee recc. 5. Nominated members - Active participation. 6. Coordination by state and centre. Thus DPC, to work to their best of strength, determine need. A carefully carved coordination mechanism is the need.
75 words
Diagram
Organizational chart showing DPC composition with branches for PRI/ULO representation, state nomination, and DC/PM leadership
Kiran Kamate
Federal Structure - Functions, Responsibilities, Devolution of Powers and Finances
Devolution to Local Levels
District Planning Committee
206
Total words
1
Paragraphs
analytical
Tone