Critically analyze the effectiveness of the local self-government system in India. Discuss the challenges it faces and provide suggestions for its improvement. (10M, 150 words) (GS-2 Governance )

Introduction

• The local self-government system in India, comprising Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), aims to promote participatory democracy, decentralized governance, and address local concerns.
• Despite the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments providing a legal framework, the effectiveness of these institutions in governance continues to be debated.

Significance of Local Self-Government

• Decentralization of Power: For instance, Kerala’s People’s Plan Campaign witnessed significant public participation in local governance.
• Social Justice: Reservation of seats for women, Scheduled Castes (SC), and Scheduled Tribes (ST) has led to better representation and inclusivity in local governance.

Effectiveness of Local Self-Government System

• Decentralization of Power:
  • Example: Kerala’s People’s Plan Campaign saw active public participation.
• Social Justice:
  • Example: Reservation policies have improved representation of women, SCs, and STs.

Challenges Faced

• Insufficient Devolution of Powers:
  • Many state governments are reluctant to delegate authority, leaving PRIs and ULBs with inadequate powers and functions.
  • Recommendation: The 2nd ARC suggests state governments should devolve significant power and authority, including financial resources, administrative control, and decision-making authority in local matters. Implementing Activity Mapping can help delineate powers and responsibilities across different government levels.
• Financial Constraints:
  • Example: In Bihar, local bodies struggle to generate enough revenue for basic amenities like sanitation and drinking water.
  • Recommendation: The 2nd ARC emphasizes financial autonomy for local bodies, recommending the establishment of State Finance Commissions to determine local taxes, duties, tolls, and fees, and improve local revenue generation and financial management.
• Political Interference:
  • This undermines autonomy and leads to a lack of accountability and transparency in decision-making.
• Capacity Constraints:
  • Local bodies often lack the necessary human resources and technical expertise to effectively plan and implement development projects.

Suggestions to Improve the Situation

• Strengthening Devolution of Powers:
  • State governments should delegate more powers and functions to local bodies, enabling them to function as effective governance instruments.
• Financial Empowerment:
  • Central and state governments should ensure adequate fiscal transfers to local bodies and enable them to tap additional revenue sources.
• Training and Capacity Building:
  • Regular training and capacity-building programs should be organized for elected representatives and officials to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Accountability and Transparency:
  • Measures like social audits, citizen report cards, and e-governance initiatives should be promoted to ensure transparency and accountability in local bodies.

Conclusion

• Addressing the challenges and implementing the suggested measures can strengthen the local self-government system, enabling it to deliver better governance and development outcomes for the people of India.