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Indian Constitution

Local Governance

Study Panchayats, Municipalities, decentralisation, 73rd and 74th Amendments and grassroots democracy.

DecentralisationHighBeginner

Simple Explanation

Overview

Local governance brings democracy closer to people through Panchayats and Municipalities, enabling decentralised planning and service delivery.

Articles / Provisions

Key constitutional references

  • Part IX
  • Part IXA
  • Articles 243 to 243ZG

Core Notes

Key points

  • The 73rd Amendment deals with Panchayats.
  • The 74th Amendment deals with Municipalities.
  • Local bodies strengthen participatory democracy.
  • Devolution of functions, funds and functionaries remains a major challenge.

Prelims Focus

Prelims pointers

  • 73rd and 74th Amendments were enacted in 1992.
  • The Eleventh Schedule is related to Panchayats.
  • The Twelfth Schedule is related to Municipalities.

Mains Focus

Mains angles

  • Use local governance in answers on decentralisation, service delivery and participatory democracy.
  • Discuss challenges of finance, capacity and real devolution.

Practice

Practice questions

  1. 1Local governance is essential for deepening democracy in India. Discuss.
  2. 2Examine the challenges faced by Panchayati Raj Institutions.
Local Governance | Indian Constitution for UPSC | Unscripted India