“Local governance is the foundation of democratic decentralisation.” Analyse.

Overview:

Gandhi’s Swaraj—power in the hands of people—is embodied in decentralization. The 73rd and 74th Amendments made citizens stakeholders in governance by institutionalizing Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Bodies.

Dimensions of Analysis:

• Today, grassroots democracy is shaped by over 3 million representatives, over half of whom are women.
• Social audits and participatory planning are made possible by Gram Sabhas and Ward Committees.
• Local organizations improve responsiveness by bridging the gap between community realities and governmental policies.

Obstacles

• Local sovereignty is limited by fiscal reliance on states and delayed financial transfers.
• Accountability is diminished by political capture and bureaucratic domination.
• Ineffective service delivery is hampered by a lack of technical and human resources.

Prospects:

• Assure consistent fiscal devolution in accordance with the standards of the 15th Finance Commission.
• Bolster digital planning tools and local capacity-building initiatives.
• Use social audits and transparency dashboards to institutionalize citizen supervision.

UPSC General Studies Paper Preparation

Public Administration Optional Exam Preparation