Question

What do you understand by local self-government in India? Mention any two merits and any two demerits of this government. Local self-government refers to the system of governance in which local bodies such as municipalities, panchayats, and zila parishads are empowered to manage and govern the affairs of their localities. These local bodies are responsible for managing public services, infrastructure, and welfare programs at the grassroots level. In India, the concept of local self-government was institutionalized by the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments in 1992, which provided for rural and urban local bodies, respectively.

Hint:

Local self-government fosters decentralization and greater community participation, but it is essential to address issues like financial constraints and political interference for effective governance.

Answer 1

1. Meaning and Importance:
Local self-government is essential for ensuring decentralized governance in a country as vast and diverse as India. By empowering local bodies, it encourages people’s participation in governance and ensures that decisions are made in accordance with the local needs and priorities. These bodies can cater to a wide range of functions like education, healthcare, water supply, and public sanitation.
2. Merits of Local Self-Government:
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Decentralized Decision-Making:
Local self-government ensures that decisions are made closer to the people. This decentralization allows for better representation of local issues and needs, as elected representatives have a better understanding of their constituents' problems. -
Increased Public Participation:
Local self-governments allow citizens to directly participate in the decision-making process. It promotes democratic values by encouraging local leaders to take part in the administration of local affairs, thus fostering a sense of community and ownership.
3. Demerits of Local Self-Government:
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Lack of Financial Resources:
Although local bodies are entrusted with the responsibility of managing public welfare, they often lack adequate financial resources. This limits their ability to carry out large-scale development projects or provide essential services to their communities. -
Political Interference:
Local self-governments in India are often subject to political interference from higher levels of government. Local bodies may face challenges in executing their functions effectively due to the influence of local political parties, which may prioritize their political agenda over the welfare of the people.
4. Conclusion:
In conclusion, local self-government plays a vital role in strengthening democratic governance in India. However, to achieve its full potential, there is a need for greater autonomy, proper financial support, and the removal of political interference. \newpage