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Home/upsc: local governance

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 20, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define the Panchayat system and its role in local governance in India. Mention the significance of the Panchayat system in promoting grassroots democracy and local development. 2. Importance of the Panchayat System Decentralization: Explain how Panchayats decentralize power, allowing ...

upsc: local governance
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The Panchayat system is a vital component of India's local government, aimed at fostering grassroots democracy, decentralization, and inclusive development. Panchayats empower communities and drive socio-economic progress at the local level. Importance of the Panchayat SystRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The Panchayat system is a vital component of India’s local government, aimed at fostering grassroots democracy, decentralization, and inclusive development. Panchayats empower communities and drive socio-economic progress at the local level.

    Importance of the Panchayat System

    1. Decentralization

    Panchayats promote decentralization by transferring powers and responsibilities to local bodies. This ensures better decision-making and effective implementation of development projects tailored to community needs.

    2. Grassroots Democracy

    The Panchayat system facilitates active citizen participation in decision-making processes. This inclusivity ensures that the needs and preferences of local populations are considered in policy formulation and implementation.

    3. Socio-economic Development

    Panchayats play a critical role in implementing various government schemes, contributing to local development in sectors like education, health, sanitation, and infrastructure. Their involvement ensures that developmental initiatives are contextually relevant.

    4. Social Justice

    Panchayats promote social justice by ensuring representation for marginalized groups, including women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes, in local governance. This representation helps address disparities and empower disadvantaged communities.

    Alternative Financing Sources for Panchayats

    1. Local Taxes: Panchayats can generate revenue through local taxes such as property tax, market fees, and professional tax .
    2. User Charges: They can levy user charges for services like water supply, waste management, and community facilities.
    3. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Collaborating with private entities can help finance and implement development projects. For example, Punsari village in Gujarat used PPP to set up solar-powered streetlights and Wi-Fi facilities.
    4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Funds: Panchayats can approach companies for CSR funding to support local development projects. Some Rajasthan Panchayats utilized CSR funds for school infrastructure improvements.
    5. Community Contributions and Crowdfunding: Mobilizing resources from local communities, NGOs, and crowdfunding can significantly support development initiatives. Hiwre Bazar village in Maharashtra successfully raised funds for water conservation projects.

    Conclusion

    The Panchayat system is the backbone of India’s local governance, empowering communities and driving socio-economic development. To maximize their impact, Panchayats must explore diverse financing sources beyond government grants, including local taxes, user charges, PPPs, CSR funds, and community contributions.

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Lala Ram
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Lala RamLearner
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Talk about the steps the government has made to help local governments become more capable in the areas of infrastructure development, land-use management, and urban planning, and evaluate how these actions have improved the standard of living in urban areas.

upsc: local governance
  1. Parth Nayak
    Parth Nayak Begginer

    Governments implement various measures to strengthen the capacity of local governments in urban planning, land-use management, and infrastructure development to enhance the quality of life in urban areas. Here are some key measures and their impacts: Measures Taken: Legislative and Policy FrameworksRead more

    Governments implement various measures to strengthen the capacity of local governments in urban planning, land-use management, and infrastructure development to enhance the quality of life in urban areas. Here are some key measures and their impacts:

    Measures Taken:
    Legislative and Policy Frameworks:

    Urban Planning Laws and Regulations: Governments establish clear legislative frameworks that define responsibilities and guidelines for urban planning and land-use management.
    National Urban Policies: Comprehensive policies are formulated to guide sustainable urban development, ensuring coordinated efforts across different levels of government.
    Capacity Building and Training:

    Training Programs: Local government officials and planners are trained in urban planning techniques, environmental management, infrastructure development, and community engagement.
    Technical Assistance: Experts provide technical support to local governments in designing and implementing urban development projects.
    Collaboration and Partnerships:

    Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Engaging private sector expertise and resources in infrastructure projects to leverage investment and innovation.
    International Cooperation: Collaboration with international organizations and donor agencies to access funding, technical expertise, and best practices.
    Community Participation:

    Public Consultations: Engaging citizens in the planning process to incorporate local needs and preferences, enhancing community ownership of development initiatives.
    Community Empowerment: Supporting community-led initiatives and providing platforms for local organizations to contribute to urban development.
    Monitoring and Evaluation:

    Performance Metrics: Establishing indicators to monitor progress and evaluate the effectiveness of urban planning and infrastructure projects.
    Impact Assessments: Conducting environmental and social impact assessments to mitigate potential negative consequences of development projects.
    Impact Assessment:
    Improved Urban Infrastructure:

    Investments in infrastructure such as transportation networks, water supply systems, and sanitation facilities enhance connectivity and quality of life for urban residents.
    Planned development reduces congestion, improves accessibility to services, and promotes economic activities.
    Sustainable Urban Growth:

    Effective land-use management strategies minimize urban sprawl, preserve green spaces, and protect natural resources.
    Encouraging mixed-use developments and promoting sustainable building practices contribute to environmental sustainability.
    Enhanced Service Delivery:

    Improved capacity enables local governments to provide efficient and responsive public services, including healthcare, education, and social services.
    Infrastructure investments support reliable utilities and enhance disaster resilience, ensuring continuity of essential services.
    Economic Development:

    Strategic urban planning fosters economic growth by attracting investments, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating employment opportunities.
    Well-planned urban areas become attractive destinations for businesses and residents, contributing to economic productivity and competitiveness.
    Social Inclusion and Quality of Life:

    Inclusive planning processes address social inequalities by providing equitable access to housing, healthcare, education, and recreational facilities.
    Enhancing public spaces and cultural amenities fosters social cohesion and enhances the overall well-being of urban residents.
    Challenges:
    Financial Constraints: Limited funding for infrastructure projects and capacity-building initiatives can hinder implementation efforts.
    Administrative Capacity: Insufficient expertise and resources within local governments may affect the effective execution of urban planning and management strategies.
    Political Will and Coordination: Coordination among different levels of government and stakeholders is crucial for coherent and sustainable urban development.
    In conclusion, while measures to strengthen local government capacity in urban planning, land-use management, and infrastructure development have shown positive impacts on improving urban quality of life, ongoing efforts are needed to address challenges and adapt strategies to evolving urbanization trends and community needs. Sustainable urban development requires continuous investment in human capital, infrastructure, and institutional frameworks to create resilient and livable cities for future generations.

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Swapna Sundari
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Swapna SundariLearner
Asked: January 22, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction (100-150 words): Contextualize the importance of PRIs: Briefly introduce Panchayati Raj Institutions as a critical part of India’s decentralized governance system, aimed at promoting local self-governance and inclusive development. Mention the relevance of financial autonomy: ...

upsc: local governance
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer 1. Over-reliance on Grants A major issue faced by PRIs is their heavy dependence on grants from the central and state governments. As per an RBI report, approximately 95% of their revenue is derived from these grants. This makes PRIs financially vulnerable and limits their autonomy in dRead more

    Model Answer

    1. Over-reliance on Grants
    A major issue faced by PRIs is their heavy dependence on grants from the central and state governments. As per an RBI report, approximately 95% of their revenue is derived from these grants. This makes PRIs financially vulnerable and limits their autonomy in decision-making and local development.

    2. Weak State Finance Commissions (SFCs)
    Article 243-I of the Indian Constitution mandates the creation of State Finance Commissions (SFCs) to recommend the devolution of funds to local governments. However, only 9 states have constituted their 6th SFC, and of these, only two are operational. The lack of effective and functional SFCs exacerbates the financial difficulties faced by PRIs by delaying and limiting the funds allocated to them.

    3. Insufficient Tax Revenue
    PRIs generate very little revenue through local taxes and fees. In 2021-22, their own revenue from taxes and fees accounted for just 1.1% of total revenue. This is due to a narrow tax base, low compliance rates, and weak enforcement mechanisms. Additionally, lack of awareness and clarity regarding tax rules contributes to the underperformance in tax collection.

    4. Misuse of Funds
    Instances of corruption and fund mismanagement are also prevalent. The absence of strong oversight mechanisms allows for the misuse of funds, as demonstrated by the diversion of Rs 1.58 crore from the Gannavaram Gram Panchayat (Andhra Pradesh) without proper approval. This undermines the financial stability and credibility of PRIs.

    Steps to Enhance Revenue Generation for PRIs

    To address these challenges, several measures can be implemented:

    1. Strengthening Tax Collection
    PRIs should adopt innovative approaches like partnering with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for tax and fee collection. For example, Surquja Gram Panchayat in Chhattisgarh witnessed an increase in revenue by collaborating with SHGs.

    2. Improving Transparency and Resource Efficiency
    Enhanced budgeting, fiscal discipline, and transparent resource management can help reduce misuse of funds. Regular audits and monitoring mechanisms should be put in place to ensure proper utilization.

    3. Revenue Diversification
    PRIs can adopt best practices from other successful models. Bademarenga Gram Panchayat in Chhattisgarh, for example, implemented various initiatives to increase both tax and non-tax revenue, such as leveraging local resources for income generation.

    4. Land Monetization
    PRIs should identify unused land for development purposes, such as commercial projects, community centers, or markets. This can generate significant revenue and contribute to local infrastructure.

    5. Strengthening SFCs
    Regular constitution and empowerment of SFCs are crucial for ensuring fair and timely devolution of funds from the state to the local level.

    By embracing these strategies, PRIs can enhance their financial independence and play a more effective role in rural development.

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Lala Ram
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Lala RamLearner
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Analyze the efforts made by the government to encourage women and other excluded groups to participate in local governance. Assess how these measures affect inclusive decision-making and the achievement of local development priorities.

upsc: local governance
Mamta Rani
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Mamta RaniLearner
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Analyze the efforts made by the government to encourage women and other excluded groups to participate in local governance. Assess how these measures affect inclusive decision-making and the achievement of local development priorities.

upsc: local governance
  1. Aachal Vayeda
    Aachal Vayeda Begginer

    [caption id="attachment_107868" align="alignnone" width="300"] Image courtesy: animalia-lifeclub. com[/caption] Women in Education: From 13% of the intake 20 years ago, women students now make up almost a third (31%) of the students at the first-generation IIMs. Also, while students from engineeringRead more

    Image courtesy: animalia-lifeclub. com

    Women in Education:

    From 13% of the intake 20 years ago, women students now make up almost a third (31%) of the students at the first-generation IIMs. Also, while students from engineering backgrounds still dominate these schools, they are down from 90% a decade ago to 66% now.

    The Indian Express analysed admission data, obtained under the Right to Information Act, of the flagship two-year postgraduate programme (PGP) at the six IIMs — Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Kozhikode, Lucknow and Indore — to find that in the last 20 years, the proportion of women in the classroom has at least doubled in five of them.The Indian government has undertaken several initiatives to promote women and marginalized groups in local governance.
    Constitutional quota: The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act mandates one-third of seats in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), rural local bodies, to be reserved for women. This legislation has ensured a significant rise in women’s voices being heard at the local level.
    Capacity building programs: The Ministry of Panchayati Raj offers training programs on leadership, governance, and financial management specifically for women representatives in PRIs. But empowerment goes beyond quotas. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj provides capacity building programs, equipping women representatives with the knowledge and skills to navigate the intricacies of governance, finance, and leadership. These programs are instrumental in transforming women from elected officials to effective agents of change. Mahila Shakti Kendras: These one-stop centers in villages provide women with skill development training, access to credit, and entitlements. These initiatives have increased women’s participation in PRIs. By addressing social and economic barriers, Mahila Shakti Kendras are paving the way for women to participate meaningfully in local decision-making. However, challenges like social barriers and lack of resources persist in the Indian landscape.

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Dhairya Jain
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Dhairya JainBegginer
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Examine the steps the government has taken to combat corruption, protect the integrity of local government representatives, and evaluate how these actions have affected public confidence and service delivery.

upsc: local governance
  1. Kiran Srivastava
    Kiran Srivastava Begginer

    The government has implemented various measures to address corruption and ensure the integrity of local government officials. These measures aim to enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust, and to improve service delivery. Here’s an analysis of these measures and their impact: Key MeasRead more

    The government has implemented various measures to address corruption and ensure the integrity of local government officials. These measures aim to enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust, and to improve service delivery. Here’s an analysis of these measures and their impact:

    Key Measures to Address Corruption and Ensure Integrity
    1. Anti-Corruption Legislation

    Prevention of Corruption Act (1988):

    Objective: To prevent corruption in government services and public sector enterprises.
    Provisions: Establishes offenses related to corruption, such as bribery and embezzlement, and prescribes penalties for these offenses.
    Whistleblower Protection Act (2014):

    Objective: To protect individuals who expose corruption or misconduct.
    Provisions: Provides safeguards for whistleblowers against retaliation and ensures the confidentiality of their identity.
    2. Strengthening of Anti-Corruption Institutions

    Central Vigilance Commission (CVC):

    Role: Monitors and controls corruption in government departments and public sector enterprises.
    Functions: Conducts investigations, provides guidelines for anti-corruption measures, and oversees vigilance activities.
    Lokpal and Lokayuktas:

    Role: Investigate and address complaints of corruption against public officials, including ministers and senior bureaucrats.
    Functions: The Lokpal at the central level and Lokayuktas at the state level investigate allegations of corruption and recommend actions.
    3. E-Governance and Digital Platforms

    Digital India Initiative:

    Objective: To promote digital infrastructure and enhance transparency in public service delivery.
    Components: Includes the implementation of digital platforms for services such as online applications, electronic payments, and tracking of service delivery.
    e-Governance Systems:

    Examples: Platforms like the Digital Payment System, e-Office, and Public Grievance Redressal Mechanisms help reduce human intervention, which can lower the risk of corruption.
    4. Transparency and Accountability Measures

    Right to Information Act (2005):

    Objective: To promote transparency by allowing citizens to request information from public authorities.
    Provisions: Mandates timely disclosure of information and provides a mechanism for citizens to seek redressal if their requests are not met.
    Public Disclosure of Assets:

    Requirement: Public officials are required to declare their assets and liabilities, which are made accessible to the public.
    Impact: Enhances accountability by allowing the public to monitor the financial status of officials.
    5. Training and Capacity Building

    Ethics Training:

    Programs: Training programs for government officials on ethics, anti-corruption practices, and integrity.
    Objective: To build awareness and foster a culture of honesty and ethical behavior within public institutions.
    Capacity Building Initiatives:

    Programs: Initiatives to enhance the skills of officials in handling grievances, managing public resources, and implementing anti-corruption measures effectively.
    6. Citizen Engagement and Monitoring

    Social Audits:

    Implementation: Social audits involve community participation in monitoring public projects and services to ensure transparency and accountability.
    Impact: Helps in identifying and addressing corruption and inefficiencies at the local level.
    Public Grievance Redressal Systems:

    Platforms: Online and offline grievance redressal mechanisms allow citizens to report corruption and service delivery issues.
    Objective: Provides a formal process for addressing complaints and ensuring accountability.
    Impact on Public Trust and Service Delivery
    1. Improved Transparency and Accountability

    Reduced Corruption: Anti-corruption measures and digital platforms have helped in reducing opportunities for corruption by minimizing direct interactions and improving monitoring.
    Enhanced Oversight: Institutions like the CVC and Lokpal provide mechanisms for oversight and accountability, leading to more effective actions against corrupt practices.
    2. Increased Public Trust

    Confidence in Governance: Transparent processes and mechanisms for addressing grievances help build public trust in government institutions.
    Empowerment of Citizens: Tools such as RTI and social audits empower citizens to hold officials accountable, leading to greater trust in public administration.
    3. Enhanced Service Delivery

    Efficiency: E-governance initiatives and digital platforms streamline service delivery, reduce delays, and improve the quality of services.
    Feedback Mechanisms: Public grievance systems and social audits facilitate better feedback from citizens, leading to improvements in service delivery and responsiveness.
    Challenges and Areas for Improvement
    1. Implementation Gaps

    Inconsistencies: Variability in the implementation of anti-corruption measures and digital platforms can affect their effectiveness across different regions.
    Resistance: There can be resistance from officials or institutions to increased scrutiny and transparency measures.
    2. Capacity and Resources

    Insufficient Resources: Adequate resources and training are necessary for the effective implementation of anti-corruption measures and digital systems.
    Ongoing Training: Continuous training and capacity building are needed to keep up with evolving anti-corruption practices and technologies.
    3. Monitoring and Evaluation

    Effectiveness: Regular monitoring and evaluation of anti-corruption measures and transparency initiatives are essential to ensure their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
    Conclusion
    The government’s measures to address corruption and ensure the integrity of local government officials have had a positive impact on transparency, public trust, and service delivery. Anti-corruption legislation, strengthening of institutions, digital platforms, and citizen engagement mechanisms contribute to improved governance and accountability. However, ongoing efforts to address implementation challenges, provide adequate resources, and ensure effective monitoring are crucial for sustaining these improvements and enhancing the integrity of public administration.

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Garima Gupta
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Garima GuptaBegginer
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
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Examine the steps the government has made to increase local governments’ capacity for resource mobilization and financial autonomy, and assess the effects these actions have had on the development of infrastructure and the provision of essential services.

upsc: local governance
  1. Kunal Joshi
    Kunal Joshi Learner

    Initiatives to Improve Financial Autonomy and Resource Mobilization of Local Governments The Indian government has undertaken several initiatives to enhance the financial autonomy and resource mobilization capacity of local governments. These measures aim to strengthen decentralized governance and iRead more

    Initiatives to Improve Financial Autonomy and Resource Mobilization of Local Governments
    The Indian government has undertaken several initiatives to enhance the financial autonomy and resource mobilization capacity of local governments. These measures aim to strengthen decentralized governance and improve the delivery of basic services and infrastructure development at the grassroots level.

    1. Constitutional and Legislative Reforms
    14th Finance Commission Recommendations:

    Increased Devolution of Funds: The 14th Finance Commission recommended increasing the share of central tax revenues devolved to states from 32% to 42%. This enhancement has provided states with greater financial resources, which they are expected to share with local governments. For example, Madhya Pradesh has used these funds to bolster the financial health of its Panchayats and Municipalities.
    State Finance Commissions (SFCs):

    Enhanced Resource Allocation: SFCs are established in states to recommend measures for improving the financial position of local governments. For instance, the Tamil Nadu State Finance Commission has suggested increasing the share of state taxes allocated to local bodies, leading to improved financial autonomy for Municipalities.
    2. Central Government Schemes and Programs
    Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme (DAY-NULM):

    Support for Urban Local Bodies: DAY-NULM aims to enhance the capacity of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) by providing financial assistance for skill development and infrastructure projects. Hyderabad has effectively utilized DAY-NULM funds to upgrade urban infrastructure and improve employment opportunities.
    Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY):

    Infrastructure Development: PMGSY provides funds to local governments for the construction of rural roads, which is crucial for improving connectivity and infrastructure in remote areas. In Jharkhand, local governments have successfully used PMGSY funds to construct and upgrade rural roads, significantly improving transportation and accessibility.
    3. Financial Management and Accountability
    Public Financial Management System (PFMS):

    Transparency and Efficiency: PFMS is a platform that enhances transparency and efficiency in the management of public funds. Local governments use PFMS to track and manage funds received from various schemes, ensuring better financial management. For example, Uttar Pradesh has implemented PFMS to streamline financial transactions and reduce corruption in fund utilization.
    Municipal Bonds:

    Resource Mobilization: The issuance of municipal bonds is a mechanism for local governments to raise funds for infrastructure development. Mumbai and Delhi have successfully issued municipal bonds to finance large-scale infrastructure projects such as metro rail systems and water supply networks.
    4. Capacity Building and Training
    National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR):

    Skill Development: NIRDPR conducts training programs to build the capacity of local government officials in financial management and project implementation. Recent workshops and training sessions have helped local officials in states like Karnataka enhance their financial planning and execution skills.
    Urban Capacity Building Initiative:

    Enhancing Urban Governance: This initiative aims to improve the capacity of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in managing urban services and infrastructure. Bhopal has benefited from capacity-building programs that have strengthened its municipal administration and improved service delivery.
    Evaluation of Impact on Basic Services and Infrastructure Development
    1. Improvement in Service Delivery:

    Enhanced Local Governance: Increased financial resources and autonomy have enabled local governments to better manage and deliver essential services such as water supply, sanitation, and waste management. In Kerala, local bodies have effectively used additional funds to improve water supply and sanitation facilities, leading to better service delivery and higher citizen satisfaction.
    2. Infrastructure Development:

    Better Infrastructure Projects: Enhanced financial capacity has allowed local governments to undertake and complete more infrastructure projects. For instance, in Assam, increased devolution of funds has facilitated the construction of new roads, bridges, and public facilities, significantly improving regional infrastructure.
    3. Challenges and Limitations:

    Capacity Constraints: Despite increased resources, many local governments still face challenges related to capacity and administrative efficiency. In Uttar Pradesh, while additional funds have improved infrastructure, the effective utilization of these resources remains a challenge due to administrative bottlenecks.

    Equitable Distribution: There is also a need to ensure equitable distribution of resources among various regions to avoid disparities. States like Bihar have seen challenges in resource allocation that affect balanced development across different districts.

    In summary, the government’s initiatives to enhance the financial autonomy and resource mobilization capacity of local governments have had a positive impact on the delivery of basic services and infrastructure development. Increased financial resources, improved management systems, and capacity-building efforts have empowered local governments to better serve their communities. However, challenges such as administrative efficiency and equitable distribution of resources need to be addressed to maximize the benefits of these initiatives.

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Tejas Rao
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Tejas RaoBegginer
Asked: July 19, 2024In:
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Examine how local governments contribute to the successful execution of federally funded programs and projects like the Swachh Bharat Mission and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), and discuss the variables that affect their effectiveness.

upsc: local governance
  1. Kunal Joshi
    Kunal Joshi Learner

    Role of Local Governments in Implementing Centrally Sponsored Schemes Local governments, including Panchayats and Municipalities, are instrumental in the successful implementation of centrally sponsored schemes such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and the SwacRead more

    Role of Local Governments in Implementing Centrally Sponsored Schemes
    Local governments, including Panchayats and Municipalities, are instrumental in the successful implementation of centrally sponsored schemes such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM). Their role extends from planning and execution to monitoring and ensuring accountability at the grassroots level.

    1. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
    Implementation at the Local Level:

    Planning and Execution: Local governments, especially Panchayats, are responsible for identifying local needs and planning projects under MGNREGA. They facilitate the execution of work such as road construction, water conservation, and rural infrastructure. For example, Kondapalli village in Andhra Pradesh effectively utilized MGNREGA funds to construct check dams that improved water availability for agriculture.

    Monitoring and Transparency: Panchayats oversee the implementation of projects to ensure quality and timeliness. They are also tasked with ensuring that wages are paid promptly and that work is carried out as per the guidelines. In Sonepur district, Odisha, local bodies conducted social audits to maintain transparency and accountability in wage payments and project completion.

    Recent Examples:

    Kerala’s MGNREGA Success: In Wayanad district, Kerala, local Panchayats have successfully utilized MGNREGA for creating durable assets such as rural roads and irrigation structures, leading to enhanced agricultural productivity and local infrastructure.
    2. Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)
    Implementation at the Local Level:

    Community Engagement and Awareness: Local governments play a crucial role in mobilizing communities and creating awareness about sanitation and hygiene. They organize campaigns and educational programs to promote cleanliness. For instance, the Municipal Corporation of Indore has been proactive in running public engagement campaigns that have significantly contributed to its status as one of the cleanest cities in India.

    Infrastructure Development: Local bodies are responsible for the construction of toilets and waste management facilities under SBM. They ensure that the infrastructure meets the mission’s standards and addresses local sanitation needs. In Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur, local authorities have successfully implemented SBM projects by building toilets and improving waste management practices, leading to better sanitation outcomes.

    Recent Examples:

    Swachh Survekshan Performance: Cities like Chandigarh and New Delhi have excelled in Swachh Survekshan rankings due to effective local governance and community involvement in sanitation efforts. Their success demonstrates the impact of strong local leadership and engagement in achieving SBM goals.
    Factors Influencing Performance
    1. Capacity Building:

    Training and Development: The effectiveness of local governments in implementing schemes is significantly influenced by their capacity and training. Programs such as the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme (DAY-NULM) offer training to local officials, improving their ability to manage and execute schemes effectively.
    2. Financial Management:

    Timely Fund Release: Proper financial management and timely disbursement of funds are critical for the successful implementation of schemes. The MGNREGA Transparency Portal helps track fund flow and expenditures, addressing issues related to delays and mismanagement.
    3. Community Participation:

    Engagement and Feedback: Active community participation ensures that schemes address local needs effectively. In Gujarat, SBM initiatives have seen success due to strong community involvement, which has led to more sustainable and impactful sanitation practices.
    4. Political Will and Leadership:

    Local Leadership: The commitment and leadership of local political figures can greatly influence the success of centrally sponsored schemes. States like Tamil Nadu have demonstrated how effective local leadership can drive the successful implementation of both MGNREGA and SBM initiatives.
    5. Administrative Efficiency:

    Effective Administration: The efficiency of local administration affects the implementation and monitoring of schemes. In Karnataka, reforms in Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) have enhanced administrative effectiveness, leading to better performance in implementing centrally sponsored schemes.
    In conclusion, local governments are central to the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes such as MGNREGA and SBM. Their role in planning, execution, monitoring, and community engagement is crucial for achieving the intended outcomes. Addressing factors such as capacity building, financial management, community participation, political will, and administrative efficiency is essential for optimizing the performance of these schemes and ensuring their success at the grassroots level.

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Rajeshwari Meena
  • 1
Rajeshwari MeenaBegginer
Asked: July 19, 2024In:
  • 1

Although the Central and state governments have implemented reforms to restructure the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), a number of obstacles still stand in the way of their effective operation. Explain.

upsc: local governance
  1. Sammi Bhargav
    Sammi Bhargav Begginer

    Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are institutions constituted for local self-government in urban areas through their elected representatives. Rapid speed of urbanisation in India poses the challenge of improving the lives of urban residents, which needs to be tackled by reforming urban governance and strenRead more

    Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are institutions constituted for local self-government in urban areas through their elected representatives. Rapid speed of urbanisation in India poses the challenge of improving the lives of urban residents, which needs to be tackled by reforming urban governance and strengthening urban local bodies. Over the last few years, several measures have been taken by the Centre and the state governments in capacity building and overhauling of urban local bodies. These include the following:

    Reforms undertaken by the Central Government:

    • Enactment of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, to Constitutionally recognize urban local bodies.
    • The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has incorporated a Comprehensive Capacity Building Programme (CCBP) to support ULBs under the AMRUT scheme.
    • The Municipal Performance Index (MPI) has been released to assess and analyze the performance of Indian municipalities on various parameters from provision of basic public services to more complex domains like urban planning.
    • Preparation of a National Municipal Accounting Manual to enhance the capacities of ULBs in municipal accounting. This has led to increased transparency regarding utilization of public funds.

    Reforms undertaken by the state governments:

    • Rationalization of stamp duty to establish an efficient real estate market with limited barriers on transfer of property.
    • Reform in rent control laws to balance the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants and to encourage construction and development of housing stocks.
    • Encouraging urban local bodies to make use of municipal bonds to raise funds. Since 1998, local bodies in cities like Nasik, Nagpur, Ludhiana, and Madurai have accessed the capital markets through municipal bonds.
    • Repeal of the Urban Land Ceilings Regulation Act, 1976, by states such as Maharashtra for increasing the supply of land in the market and establishing an effective land market.

    More steps like implementation of e-governance for transparent administration and property tax collaboration with GIS have been taken. However, the urban local bodies are still fraught with structural and institutional challenges which impede their effective functioning, such as:

    • Financial scarcity and corruption: The urban local bodies are facing acute scarcity of finance, as the extent of financial devolution is not commensurate with their responsibilities. Further, some urban local bodies do not collect enough taxes and do not realize the full potential of property tax. Apart from that corruption, favoritism and nepotism are making them inefficient.
    • State’s control in urban planning: In most cases, urban planning is done at the state government level and ULBs have little role in it. Also, excessive control of the states over ULBs restricts the functioning of the latter.
    • Multiplicity of agencies: Multiplicity of agencies like Jal boards, electricity boards, and other special purpose vehicles engaged in urban administration invariably leads to problems of coordination.
    • Inadequately trained personnel: The government functionaries, especially in smaller ULBs, lack exposure to cross learning and to best practices in innovative technologies in areas such as urban planning, citizen participation, municipal service delivery etc.
    • Irregular elections: Elections in some ULBs have been postponed for more than six months due to reorganization of ward boundaries, extension of limits, etc. Further, many states do not constitute the State Election Commission at the prescribed time interval.

    To address the above challenges, steps like strengthening of Administrative Training Institutes (ATIs) to support the training needs of ULBs, increasing financial devolution and resource mobilization avenues for ULBs, proactive coordination among the Centre, state, and ULBs regarding urban planning, etc. are the need of the hour.

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