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Semester 3: Local Governance in India
Introduction: Meaning, Historical Background, Evolution, Resolutions of Mayo and Ripon
Local Governance in India
Introduction
Local governance refers to the administration of local areas by local authorities. It is an essential component of democratic governance, allowing citizens to participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives. In India, local governance is seen as a way to enhance participation and promote grassroots democracy.
Meaning
Local governance signifies the management of local affairs by elected representatives from the community. This system empowers citizens to have a voice in the functioning of local administrative units, such as villages and towns.
Historical Background
The concept of local governance in India has roots in the ancient village republics. However, significant changes occurred during the British rule. The introduction of reforms such as the Armstong Committee and the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms laid the groundwork for local self-governance.
Evolution
The evolution of local governance in India took shape post-independence with the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments in 1992, which aimed to create a framework for effective local self-governance through Panchayati Raj institutions in rural areas and urban local bodies in urban areas.
Resolutions of Mayo and Ripon
The Mayo Resolution of 1870 emphasized the importance of local self-government and recognized local bodies as a means of governance. The Ripon Resolution of 1882 further reinforced this by advocating for a more representative local governance system, establishing a basis for local self-governance in Indian municipalities.
Colonial and Constitutional Provisions: Royal Commission, Government of India Acts, Gandhi's Views, 73rd and 74th Amendments
Colonial and Constitutional Provisions for Local Governance in India
Royal Commission
The Royal Commission on Local Governance was established to evaluate and recommend structures for local administration. Emphasis was placed on decentralizing power and enhancing local self-governance to promote democratic participation.
Government of India Acts
The Government of India Acts, particularly those from 1919 and 1935, laid the foundation for local governance. The Acts introduced a system of diarchy, allocating responsibilities to provincial governments and local bodies, although the real power remained with the British authorities.
Gandhi's Views on Local Governance
Mahatma Gandhi advocated for the concept of 'Gram Swaraj' which emphasizes self-governance at the village level. He believed that true democracy begins with local self-governance and that villages should have the autonomy to manage their own affairs.
73rd and 74th Amendments
The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, enacted in 1992, empowered local bodies in rural and urban areas respectively. These amendments provided for the establishment of Panchayati Raj institutions and Municipalities with a clear framework for elections, composition, and powers, thus facilitating democratic decentralization.
Committees: Balwantrai Mehta, Ashok Mehta, GVK Rao, LMSinghvi; Gram Sabha, Panchayat System, District Planning
Local Governance in India
Balwantrai Mehta Committee
The Balwantrai Mehta Committee was established in 1957 to promote the principles of democratic decentralization. It emphasized the importance of the Panchayat system. The committee recommended a three-tier structure of local self-governments: Gram Panchayat at the village level, Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and Zila Parishad at the district level. Its recommendations played a crucial role in shaping rural governance in India.
Ashok Mehta Committee
The Ashok Mehta Committee, formed in 1977, aimed at revamping the existing Panchayati Raj system. It recommended a two-tier system instead of the traditional three-tier system. This committee underscored the need for greater autonomy for local bodies and suggested the establishment of a district-level planning approach. It also highlighted the importance of representation for women and disadvantaged groups in local governance.
GVK Rao Committee
The GVK Rao Committee was constituted in 1985 to examine the working of the Panchayati Raj institutions. It recommended strengthening of the Panchayati Raj system and called for the devolution of powers from the state government to local bodies. The committee advocated for the establishment of a District Planning Committee to ensure proper planning and implementation of developmental programs at the district level.
LMSinghvi Committee
The LMSinghvi Committee was set up in 1986 to assess the impact of local self-governance on the socio-economic development of the rural areas. The committee recommended constitutional status for local self-governments and emphasized the need for financial autonomy for the Panchayati Raj institutions. Its recommendations led to the 73rd Amendment of the Indian Constitution which provided a solid foundation for local governance.
Gram Sabha
Gram Sabha serves as the foundation of the Panchayati Raj system. It consists of all eligible voters in the village and plays a vital role in the decision-making process at the village level. The Gram Sabha is responsible for approving the annual budget, monitoring the functioning of the Gram Panchayat, and ensuring transparency in local governance.
Panchayat System
The Panchayat system is the traditional system of local self-governance in rural India. It consists of a tiered structure including Gram Panchayat (village level), Panchayat Samiti (block level), and Zila Parishad (district level). This system embodies the principles of democratic participation, empowering local citizens to take part in governance and development.
District Planning
District Planning is crucial for ensuring that developmental programs address local needs and priorities. District Planning Committees, as recommended by various committees, are responsible for formulating and overseeing implementation plans across sectors. Effective district planning can result in better resource allocation and improved service delivery in local governance.
Urban Bodies: Powers and Functions of Town Panchayats, Municipalities, Corporations, Standing and Ward Committees, Executive and Elected Representatives
Urban Bodies: Powers and Functions of Town Panchayats, Municipalities, Corporations, Standing and Ward Committees, Executive and Elected Representatives
Town Panchayats
Town Panchayats are the rural local government bodies tasked with the administration of towns. They function at the local level to ensure the delivery of basic amenities like water supply, sanitation, and infrastructure development. Their powers include budgeting local funds, implementing government schemes, and maintaining public properties.
Municipalities
Municipalities function in urban areas to provide public services and infrastructure. Their powers encompass urban planning, regulation of building, taxation, and maintenance of local roads. They play a vital role in local governance through participatory democracy.
Municipal Corporations
Municipal Corporations are established in larger cities and have more extensive powers than municipalities. They are responsible for delivering essential services, revenue generation, urban planning, and development projects. Municipal Corporations enhance urban governance through structured administrative frameworks.
Standing Committees
Standing Committees are formed within Municipal Bodies to oversee specific functions such as finance, health, and education. They play a crucial role in policy formulation and allocation of resources. Members of these committees are usually elected from among the members of the corporation.
Ward Committees
Ward Committees represent smaller geographic areas within cities, promoting citizen participation in governance. These committees focus on local issues, ensuring that the voices of residents are heard in urban planning and development initiatives.
Executive Representatives
Executive Representatives are responsible for implementing the decisions of local bodies. They include officials like the municipal commissioner and other bureaucratic staff ensuring that the functions of urban local governance are executed effectively.
Elected Representatives
Elected Representatives are individuals chosen by citizens to represent their interests at the local level. They play a significant role in policy-making, local legislation, and community engagement, serving as a bridge between the government and the public.
Statutory Bodies: State Election/Finance Commissions, Citizen Charter, Social Audit, Lokayukta, Ombudsman
Statutory Bodies in Local Governance in India
State Election Commissions
Responsible for overseeing and conducting free and fair elections at the state level. Ensures transparency, accountability, and adherence to election laws.
State Finance Commissions
Constituted to review the financial position of local bodies and recommends the distribution of taxes between the state and local governments.
Citizen Charter
Represents the commitment of public agencies to deliver services effectively and efficiently. Aims to empower citizens by providing information about their rights and service delivery standards.
Social Audit
A process where citizens evaluate the performance of public schemes. Enhances accountability and transparency in governance.
Lokayukta
An anti-corruption authority established to investigate grievances related to corrupt practices in the government and public sector.
Ombudsman
An official appointed to investigate complaints against public authorities. Aims to ensure fairness and accountability in government functioning.
