Step 1: Understand "local self-government" in the Indian context.
This refers to the system of governance where local bodies (like municipalities and panchayats) manage local affairs.
Step 2: Identify the key historical figure associated with its promotion.
Lord Ripon, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1880 to 1884, is widely regarded as the "Father of Local Self-Government in India.
" In 1882, his government passed a resolution that laid the foundation for local self-governing institutions in India.
He aimed to develop these bodies not just for administrative efficiency but also as instruments of political and popular education.
Step 3: Consider other options.
- (2) Balwant Rai Mehta: Chaired the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957), which recommended the establishment of the scheme of 'democratic decentralisation,' which finally came to be known as Panchayati Raj.
This was a crucial step in post-independence India for strengthening local self-government.
- (3) Lord Mayo: Viceroy of India (1869-1872).
He introduced financial decentralization, which was a step towards local self-government, but Lord Ripon's measures were more direct and foundational for the system.
- (4) L.
M.
Singhvi: Chaired the L.
M.
Singhvi Committee (1986), which recommended constitutional status for Panchayati Raj institutions.
This was a significant step leading to the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.
Step 4: Confirm the "Father of Local Self-Government".
While others made significant contributions, particularly in post-independence India, Lord Ripon is historically acclaimed as the "Father of Local Self-Government in India" for his initiatives in the colonial era.
This matches option (1).