“The local self government system in India has not proved to be effective instrument of governance”. Critically examine the statement and give your views to improve the situation. (UPSC IAS Mains 2017 General Studies Paper – 2)
The local self government system (LSGs), having an important role in local planning, development and administration, got a big fillip when it got constitutional status under 73rd and 74th Amendments.
Successes of LSGs in India
- Democratic Decentralisation through the election of 30 lakh representative in panchayats alone (as per Devolution Index Report 2013-14 of IIPA).
- Voice to the marginalized and vulnerable sections of the society through reservations for women, SCs and STs.
- Effective public service delivery as per the needs of the local population through LSG allows for bottom-up approach. Example- MGNREGA.
Shortcomings of LSGs in India
The LSGs are dependent on the states for:
- Functions: The progress of devolution of powers and responsibilities to local governments at various levels is poor and uneven.
- Funds: The local bodies cannot even meet routine functions because the proceeds of various taxes are not available to them as they form part of the Consolidated Fund of the State.
- Functionaries: There is a capacity deficit among the personnel and elected functionaries due to lack of capacity building.
Measures to Improve the Status of LSG (2nd ARC)
- Clear definition of functions for each level of local government in case of each subject matter.
- State Finance Commissions should evolve objective and transparent norms for devolution and distribution of funds.
- Capacity building efforts must attend to both the organisation building requirements as also the professional and skills upgradation of individuals associated with these bodies.
- Putting in place a well-delineated activity mapping for LSGs.
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