FROM VILLAGE TO CITY : THE IMPORTANCE OF LOCAL SELF GOVERNMENT IN INDIA

 

Local self government in India refers to the system of governing the rural and urban areas at the grassroots level . In rural and urban areas, it is known as Panchayati Raj , and in Urban areas it is known as Municipal government.

The Panchayati Raj system was established through 73rd Constitutional Amendment act of 1992 , which provided for the creation of three tier Panchayat System - Gram Panchayat at the village level , Panchayat Samiti at the block level and Zilla Parishad at the district level . The Gram Panchayat is the basic unit of the Panchayati Raj system , and it is responsible for the administration  of the village , including the development of infrastructure , provision of basic services , and the welfare of the villagers.

The Municipal government in Urban areas is responsible for the administration of the city or town , including the provision of basic services such as water supply , sanitation and waste management . The Municipal government also plays a critical role in the development of urban infrastructure including roads, parks and public buildings.

FUNCTIONS

IN RURAL AREAS

• Administration of village affairs.
• Development of Infra Structure.
• Agriculture and rural development.
• Education and health.

IN URBAN AREAS

• Administration of the city or town.
• Development of infrastructure.
• Urban Planning .
• Education and health.

The functions of local self government in India are wide ranging and encompass various aspect of administration , development , and welfare . They play a critical role in the development and well - being of the rural and urban communities.

CHALLENGES

• Lack of political and administrative autonomy.
• Lack of financial resources .
• Lack of technical expertise.
• Corruption
• Lack of transparency.
• Lack of representation.
• Limited participation.
• Inadequate systems and procedures.

WAY FORWARD

• Increasing political and administrative autonomy.
• Improving financial management.
• Building technical capacity.
• Combating corruption.
• Enhancing Representation.
• Legal and policy reform.
• Strengthening of systems.