Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Start your answer by briefly explaining 73^rd and 74^th amendments.
• Discuss their impact on decentralization of power and functioning of panchayats and municipalities in India.
• Conclude accordingly.

Introduction

• The 73^rd and 74^th Constitutional Amendments in India, enacted in 1992 and 1993 respectively, aimed to decentralize power and promote local self-government.
  • These amendments added provisions related to Panchayats (rural local governments) and Municipalities (urban local governments) to the Constitution of India, recognizing them as institutionalized bodies with constitutional status and powers. The amendments aimed to empower the marginalized sections of society and provide them with a direct say in local decision-making.

Body

• Impact on Decentralization of Power:
  • The 73^rd and 74^th Amendments have had a significant impact on decentralizing power in India by transferring power from the central and state governments to the local bodies.
    • This transfer of power has led to a more democratic form of governance, as it allows local communities to have a greater say in decisions that affect their daily lives.
    • The amendments have also led to a more participatory form of governance, as local communities are now able to participate in decision-making processes and hold their elected representatives accountable.
• Impact on the Functioning of Panchayats:
  • The 73^rd Amendment has had a major impact on the functioning of Panchayats in India.
    • Prior to the amendment, Panchayats were seen as weak and ineffective institutions, lacking both the resources and powers needed to effectively serve their communities.
    • The amendment has provided Panchayats with a constitutional status, which has allowed them to secure a more stable source of funding and greater powers to perform their functions.
    • This has enabled Panchayats to become more effective in serving their communities and delivering basic services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
      • One such example is the success of the Panchayat Raj system in the state of Andhra Pradesh. In Andhra Pradesh, the Panchayats have been given a greater role in decision-making and have been empowered to implement various development programs.
      • This has led to the creation of several successful development programs, such as the construction of roads, schools, and health centers, which have greatly benefited the local communities.
• Impact on the Functioning of Municipalities:
  • Increased Participation of Citizens: With the functioning of municipalities, the involvement of citizens in the decision-making process has increased.
    • For example, in some municipalities, residents are consulted before making important decisions such as budget allocation or planning new infrastructure projects.
  • Promotion of Environmental Sustainability: The functioning of municipalities has also helped to promote environmental sustainability.
    • For example, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has implemented several initiatives to promote green buildings, which helps to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.
• Challenge faced by Panchayats and Municipalities:
  • Lack of Funds, Function and Functionaries: Despite the constitutional provisions, the Municipalities continue to be dependent on the State Governments for funds and resources which in turn affects their ability to function effectively.
  • Another challenge faced by municipalities is the limited functions and powers. Despite being responsible for providing essential services, municipalities in India often lack the necessary powers and resources to carry out their functions effectively.
  • Many municipalities in India suffer from a shortage of trained and competent functionaries.
    • This results in a lack of technical expertise in areas such as urban planning and infrastructure development, which can negatively impact the delivery of services to citizens.

Conclusion

• The 73^rd and 74^th Amendments have had a positive impact on decentralizing power and promoting local self-government in India by transferring power to Panchayats and Municipalities and giving them constitutional status and greater powers.
• This has resulted in a more democratic and participatory form of governance, with local communities having a greater say in decisions that affect their lives.
• However, the Panchayats and Municipalities continue to face challenges such as lack of funds and political interference, which affect their ability to function effectively. Which is needed to be resolve by taking innovative solutions by the government so that impact of decentralized governance reach the masses at grassroot level.