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 situatio

Local government in India operates below the state level. It looks after the management of local affairs. It consists of local bodies who have been elected by the local people.

India’s introduction with LSG: In India, the idea of democratic decentralization made it possible to create three-tier Panchayats and Municipal organizations for the local self-government after the 73rd and the 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, 1992.

Benefits:

• It enables direct people’s participation in the management of their own affairs.
• The lowermost strata at the grass-root level of the society are involved in the administration.
• The foundations of the entire democratic structure of India is getting good governance.
• The smaller representation is beneficial to understand affairs at the national level.

Drawbacks:

• Proper assignment of powers is missing.
• The local self-government of India has been facing the obstacles of inadequate funds.
• The practice of unfair means is noticed in the election process
• It has a limited set of powers and dependency on the state legislature.

Way out:

• Local self Government must be assigned with proper distribution of powers.
• Providing more autonomy in governance
• Proper funding and allocation of resources
• Looking after the matter of disguised candidate
• Launching of skill up-gradation and digital literacy program

To ensure good governance of a nation, the foundation must have to be strong. In the case of India, empowering the Local Self Government is the easiest way to strengthen the administrative structure.

Topics: GS-II: Devolution of Powers and Finances Up to Local Levels