Decentralisation and Governance in India

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Questions and Answers

What is a significant outcome of democratic decentralisation in governance?

Higher levels of accountability and transparency (correct)

Reduction in local citizen participation

Greater centralization of decision-making processes

Increased ceremonial roles for elected officials

Which issue is primarily associated with the uneven implementation of decentralisation in India?

Increase in local participation

Uniform development outcomes across regions

Disparities in power and resources distribution (correct)

Enhanced resource allocation in all states

What challenge does the Mayor face in most Urban Local Governments in India?

Autonomy from state government influence

Full control over municipal decision-making

Authority to appoint the Municipal Commissioner

Ceremonial status with limited real power (correct)

How has decentralisation impacted representations of marginalised communities in governance?

Greater representation and inclusive policies Signup and view all the answers

What infrastructural issue do many Gram Panchayats (GPs) face?

Sharing spaces with other entities without proper facilities Signup and view all the answers

What primary limitation does decentralisation face in terms of local government powers?

Overdependence on state government for decision-making Signup and view all the answers

In what area have many Gram Panchayats been reported to struggle?

Basic facilities like drinking water and electricity Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about the effects of decentralisation on local governance?

It guarantees equal development across all regions Signup and view all the answers

What is a key method to enhance the skills and knowledge of local government officials?

Training programs and mentoring Signup and view all the answers

Which factor primarily influences the success of democratic decentralisation?

Active citizen participation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Panchayati Raj system?

Enhancing political accountability and participation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can help strengthen local government institutions in India?

Providing greater autonomy and resources Signup and view all the answers

What is one challenge faced by local governments in India regarding data entry?

Frequent visits to Block Development offices Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not considered a method to promote community participation?

Increased bureaucratic control Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected outcome of revising laws and procedures governing local governments?

Enhanced autonomy and efficiency in functioning Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an essential component of building capacity in local government?

Implementing exchange visits and training programs Signup and view all the answers

What was established by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act in India?

Panchayati Raj Institutions Signup and view all the answers

Which schedule was added by the 74th Amendment Act for urban local governments?

12th Schedule Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a challenge related to decentralization in India?

Lack of technical and financial support Signup and view all the answers

What part of the Constitution was introduced as a result of the 73rd Amendment?

Part IX Signup and view all the answers

What is one significant positive outcome of democratic decentralization in India?

Empowerment of local communities Signup and view all the answers

Which articles in the Constitution are associated with the 74th Constitutional Amendment?

Articles 243-P to 243-ZG Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main reasons for implementing the Panchayati Raj system?

To facilitate local self-governance and community involvement Signup and view all the answers

What does the 11th Schedule of the Constitution include?

Functions of Panchayats Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Accountability and Transparency in Governance

Decentralisation fosters greater accountability and transparency in governance.
Local governments are more directly responsible to citizens, enhancing public scrutiny of decision-making processes.

Promotion of Diversity and Inclusivity

Democratic decentralisation improves representation of marginalized communities in governance.
Policies become more inclusive, addressing diverse social, economic, and cultural needs.

Challenges of Decentralisation in India

Power and resources are distributed unevenly across states, causing development disparities.
In many regions, local government positions, such as the Mayor, hold primarily ceremonial roles with limited actual power.
Many Gram Panchayats face infrastructural issues, lacking proper facilities and dedicated buildings.

Infrastructural Issues

Some Gram Panchayats share spaces with schools and other entities, affecting functionality.
Basic amenities like toilets, drinking water, and electricity are often unavailable.
Internet connections, while present, are frequently non-functional, complicating data management.

Recommendations for Improvement

Local governance institutions need strengthening through increased autonomy, resources, and powers.
Revision of laws and regulations could enhance local government effectiveness.

Training and Capacity Building

Local officials require training to develop skills for their roles in governance.
Training programs, mentoring, and exchange visits can support capacity building.

Community Participation

Active citizen involvement is critical for the success of democratic decentralisation.
Implementation of awareness campaigns and public meetings can enhance community engagement.

Key Legislative Framework

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, enacted in 1992, established Panchayati Raj Institutions, adding Part-IX and the 11th Schedule to the Constitution.
The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 instituted urban local governments, adding Part IX-A and the 12th Schedule for municipalities.

Importance of the Amendments

The 30th anniversary of the 73rd and 74th Amendments in 2023 highlights ongoing challenges in India's local governance framework.
Technical, administrative, and financial improvements are necessary for effective governance.

Positive Impact of Democratic Decentralisation

Enhanced empowerment of local communities enables citizens to influence decision-making and implement context-specific development projects.

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Description

This quiz covers the impacts of decentralisation on governance in India, focusing on accountability, transparency, and inclusivity. It also addresses the challenges faced by local governments, including power disparities and infrastructural issues. Test your understanding of these critical aspects of Indian governance.