Assignment Code: BPAC-112/TMA/2023-24

Course Code: BPAC-112

Assignment Name: Rural Local Governance

Year: 2023-2024

Verification Status: Verified by Professor

Assignment A

Answer the following question in about 500 words each.

Q1) Highlight the salient features of the Constitution (Seventy Third Amendment) Act, 1992.

Ans) The Constitution (Seventy-Third Amendment) Act, 1992, is a significant milestone in Indian constitutional history, as it aimed to strengthen and decentralize rural governance. Here are the salient features of this amendment:

Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs): The 73rd Amendment introduced a new Part IX in the Constitution, which deals with PRIs. It mandated the creation of Panchayats at the village, intermediate (block), and district levels to establish a three-tier system of local self-governance.

Composition of Panchayats:

1. Reservation: The amendment introduced the concept of reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women in PRIs. A minimum of one-third of the seats were reserved for women, including seats reserved for SC and ST women.

2. Direct Elections: Panchayat members are to be elected directly by the people through a secret ballot.

3. Duration of Panchayats: Panchayats are elected for a five-year term, after which elections must be held within six months of the expiry of the term.

   
   

State Election Commission: Each state is required to establish a State Election Commission to conduct Panchayat elections.

State Finance Commission: Each state is mandated to establish a State Finance Commission (SFC) to review and recommend the financial distribution between the state government and PRIs.

Functions of Panchayats:

1. PRIs have been given the responsibility for planning and implementing various development programs in areas like agriculture, education, health, and rural infrastructure.

2. They have the power to levy and collect certain taxes, fees, and duties, as specified by the state legislature.

   
   

Devolution of Funds:

1. The amendment stipulates that the state shall provide resources to PRIs to enable them to discharge their functions and responsibilities.

2. A portion of certain central and state government grants is to be earmarked for PRIs, as determined by the respective state legislatures.

Independence: PRIs are intended to function independently, with the state government not interfering in their day-to-day affairs. They can make rules and procedures for their functioning.

Conduct of Elections: Regular elections to Panchayats are to be held to ensure continuity in local governance.

Audit of Accounts: PRIs are required to maintain accounts and records, and these accounts are to be audited by the state's Auditor General or an agency authorized by the state government.

Reservation of Chairperson Posts: The amendment provides for the reservation of the office of the chairperson at all levels of PRIs (village, block, and district) for SCs, STs, and women, on a rotational basis.

Role of District Planning Committees (DPCs): DPCs are established to consolidate the plans prepared by Panchayats and municipalities in the district to formulate an integrated district development plan. This encourages coordinated development.

Review and Amendment: States are given flexibility to modify the provisions of the amendment to suit their specific needs, as long as the core principles of decentralized governance are maintained.

The Seventy-Third Amendment brings power to the people and promotes grassroots democracy in rural India, transforming governance. It has empowered local communities, especially marginalised groups, to engage in decision-making and improve themselves. The amendment is essential to grassroots social justice, economic development, and inclusive growth.

Q2) Examine the issues and challenges of Rural Local Governance.

Ans) Rural local governance, often administered through Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), plays a vital role in the development and administration of rural areas in many countries, including India. While it has made significant strides, several issues and challenges persist:

1. Financial Autonomy: PRIs often lack financial autonomy and are heavily dependent on state governments for funds. This can lead to delays in project execution and hinder local development initiatives.

2. Inadequate Resources: The funds allocated to PRIs may be insufficient to meet the demands of rural areas, particularly in underdeveloped regions. This can limit their capacity to address critical issues like infrastructure development, healthcare, and education.

3. Lack of Technical Expertise: Many PRIs face a shortage of qualified personnel and technical expertise. This affects their ability to plan and implement complex development projects effectively.

4. Political Interference: PRIs are sometimes subject to political interference, with local politicians influencing decision-making processes for personal or partisan gain. This can undermine the autonomy and effectiveness of PRIs.

5. Capacity Building: Building the capacity of PRI members and staff is crucial. Training programs and skill development initiatives are necessary to enhance their governance and administrative skills.

6. Corruption and Mismanagement: Corruption can be a significant issue in rural local governance. Misappropriation of funds, embezzlement, and irregularities in procurement processes can hinder development efforts.

7. Gender Disparities: Despite reservations for women in PRIs, gender disparities persist. Women often face discrimination and may not have equal participation in decision-making processes.

8. Limited Participation: In some regions, marginalized communities may not actively participate in local governance due to various factors, including lack of awareness, social hierarchies, and discrimination.

9. Infrastructure Deficits: Rural areas often lack basic infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and clean drinking water. PRIs struggle to address these deficits due to resource limitations.

10. Ineffective Gram Sabhas: The effectiveness of Gram Sabhas (village assemblies) in decision-making varies widely. In some areas, they may not function optimally, limiting grassroots participation.

11. Environmental Sustainability: Sustainable development and environmental protection are often overlooked in rural governance. Balancing economic development with environmental conservation is a challenge.

12. Political Instability: Frequent elections and changes in PRI leadership can disrupt development continuity and policy implementation.

13. Inter-State Disparities: There can be significant disparities in the effectiveness and capacity of PRIs across states, leading to uneven development outcomes.

    
    

    To address these challenges, it is essential to strengthen rural local governance through various measures:

14. Enhancing Financial Autonomy: Providing PRIs with greater financial autonomy and resources to undertake local development projects.

15. Capacity Building: Conducting training programs and workshops to build the capacity of PRI members and staff.

16. Promoting Transparency: Implementing e-governance initiatives and ensuring transparency in financial transactions and decision-making.

17. Empowering Marginalized Communities: Encouraging the active participation of marginalized groups and addressing gender disparities through awareness campaigns and capacity-building programs.

18. Effective Implementation of Reservations: Ensuring that reservations for women and marginalized communities are effectively implemented, and their voices are heard in decision-making.

19. Strengthening Gram Sabhas: Empowering Gram Sabhas to play a more active role in local governance and decision-making processes.

Addressing these issues and challenges in rural local governance is critical to achieving inclusive and sustainable development in rural areas and ensuring that the benefits of governance reach the grassroots level.

Assignment B

Answer the following question in about 250 words each.

Q3) Discuss the meaning and need of local government.

Ans) Local government, also known as local self-government or municipal government, refers to the system of governance at the grassroots level, closest to the people in a geographical area. It comprises elected or appointed officials responsible for the administration and management of local affairs, services, and resources within a specific jurisdiction, such as a town, city, district, or rural area.

The need for local government can be understood through several key aspects:

1. Decentralization of Power: Local government decentralizes power and authority, distributing it from the central or state government to the local level. This decentralization is essential for ensuring that decisions and policies are more responsive to local needs and preferences.

2. Effective Service Delivery: Local governments are better positioned to identify and address the specific needs of their communities. They can provide essential services such as water supply, sanitation, healthcare, education, and infrastructure development efficiently and tailored to local conditions.

3. Accountability and Transparency: Local governments promote transparency and accountability by bringing decision-making closer to the people. Elected representatives are directly responsible to their constituents, making them more accessible and responsive.

4. Community Participation: Local government encourages citizen participation in the democratic process. It provides a platform for citizens to voice their concerns, engage in decision-making, and hold officials accountable for their actions.

5. Promotion of Local Culture and Heritage: Local governments play a crucial role in preserving and promoting local culture, heritage, and traditions. They can support cultural events, historical preservation, and tourism development.

6. Economic Development: Local governments can stimulate economic growth by promoting local industries, small businesses, and job creation. They are instrumental in fostering a conducive environment for investment and development.

Q4) Examine the role of State Election Commission.

Ans) The State Election Commission (SEC) is a constitutional body that plays a crucial role in the conduct of local body elections within a state. Its primary functions and roles are as follows:

1. Conduct of Elections: The most fundamental role of the SEC is to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections for various local bodies, such as Panchayats (village councils), Municipalities, and Municipal Corporations. This includes the preparation of electoral rolls, the scheduling of elections, and the overall management of the electoral process.

2. Delimitation of Constituencies: The SEC is responsible for demarcating constituencies for local body elections. This process ensures equitable representation and prevents gerrymandering.

3. Implementation of Election Code: The SEC enforces the Model Code of Conduct and ensures that all political parties and candidates adhere to the ethical and legal guidelines during the election period.

4. Monitoring Election Expenditure: It keeps a close watch on the election expenditure of candidates and parties to prevent overspending and maintain a level playing field.

5. Appointment of Electoral Officers: The SEC appoints electoral officers, including returning officers and presiding officers, to oversee the electoral process at the local level.

6. Resolution of Disputes: The SEC handles disputes related to the conduct of local body elections, including the disqualification of candidates, election irregularities, and electoral disputes.

7. Voter Education: It conducts voter education programs to raise awareness among voters about the electoral process, their rights, and the importance of participation.

8. Ensuring Transparency: The SEC ensures transparency in the election process by providing public access to information, maintaining electoral rolls, and conducting elections using electronic voting machines (EVMs) where applicable.

   
   

Q5) Highlight the constitutional provisions regarding resource mobilisation and management.

Ans) The Constitution of India contains several provisions that govern the resource mobilization and management at both the central and state levels. These provisions are essential for ensuring fiscal federalism, effective governance, and the equitable distribution of resources. Here are some key constitutional provisions regarding resource mobilization and management:

1. Division of Financial Powers: Article 268 to 279 in Part XII of the Constitution outline the distribution of financial powers between the central and state governments. They specify the taxes that can be levied by each level of government.

2. Taxes on Income: Article 280 of the Constitution establishes the Finance Commission, which recommends the division of income tax and other taxes between the Centre and states. This commission ensures that resources are allocated equitably.

3. Grants-in-Aid: Article 275 provides for grants-in-aid to be given to certain states, primarily for tribal areas and less developed states, to support their financial needs and development.

4. Consolidated Funds: Articles 266 and 267 establish the Consolidated Funds of India and the states. All revenues received by the governments are credited to these funds, and all expenditures are made from them, ensuring proper management of public finances.

5. Finance Commissions: Articles 281 to 281C lay down the provisions for the appointment and functioning of Finance Commissions. These commissions recommend the distribution of finances between the Centre and states, as well as the allocation of funds among states.

6. Auditor General: Article 148 to 151 provide for the establishment of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. The CAG audits the accounts of the central and state governments to ensure financial transparency and accountability.

   
   

Assignment C

Answer the following question in about 100 words each.

Q6) Discuss the National Food Security Act, 2013.

Ans) The National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 is a significant social welfare legislation enacted by the Government of India. Its key provisions include:

1. Universal Coverage: It aims to provide subsidized food grains to nearly two-thirds of India's population, covering both urban and rural areas.

2. Targeted Distribution: NFSA identifies priority households and beneficiaries to receive food grains at highly subsidized prices.

3. Nutritional Support: It ensures food security by providing staple food grains like rice, wheat, and coarse grains at affordable rates to eligible households.

4. Maternal and Child Nutrition: Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children under the age of 14 receive special nutritional support.

5. Nutritional Programs: NFSA complements other nutritional programs like the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the Midday Meal Scheme.

   
   

Q7) Write a short note on Gram Panchayat Development Plan.

Ans) Within the context of rural governance in India, the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) is an effort that is of critical importance. Gram Panchayats, which are similar to village councils, are given the ability to create their own development plans based on the requirements and goals of their communities. Participation of local communities in the design, implementation, and monitoring of rural development projects is one of the ways that the GPDP encourages decentralisation. This method guarantees that development initiatives are sensitive to the surrounding environment and are open to public scrutiny. Villagers are given the opportunity to have a say in how their communities will grow in the future, which not only encourages citizen engagement but also helps to enhance grassroots democracy and contributes to the support of sustainable rural development.

Q8) Highlight the role and responsibilities of the Gram Panchayat.

Ans) Gram Panchayats, as local self-government institutions in India, have several essential roles and responsibilities:

1. Local Governance: They are responsible for local governance, ensuring the delivery of public services and addressing local issues.

2. Planning and Development: Formulating and implementing development plans and projects for the economic and social development of the village.

3. Resource Management: Managing local resources, including water, land, and forests, and ensuring their sustainable use.

4. Infrastructure Development: Building and maintaining local infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and health centers.

5. Social Welfare: Implementing social welfare programs, promoting education, healthcare, and sanitation.

6. Revenue Collection: Collecting local taxes, fees, and levies as per legal provisions.

7. Conflict Resolution: Resolving disputes and maintaining law and order at the village level.

   
   

Q9) Write a note on Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana.

Ans) The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, also known as PMGSY, is India's most important initiative for improving rural infrastructure. It was initiated in the year 2000 with the purpose of providing all-weather road connectivity to rural areas with the goals of enhancing accessibility and encouraging socio-economic growth. The use of local resources in construction and assuring community participation in planning and maintenance are two key features. Other important aspects include giving priority to road building in poor and rural areas. The PMGSY has made a substantial contribution to the improvement of rural connectivity, which has resulted in easier access to markets, educational and medical facilities, and employment possibilities. This has helped to contribute to rural development and the alleviation of poverty.

Q10) Elaborate the objectives of SVAMITVA scheme.

Ans) The SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) scheme is a flagship program in India with the following objectives:

1. Property Rights: To provide property rights to rural households by issuing property ownership records, known as 'property cards,' to individual landowners.

2. Financial Inclusion: To enable rural landowners to use property cards as collateral for accessing credit and financial services, fostering economic growth and stability.

3. Transparent Land Records: To promote transparency in land records, reduce land disputes, and streamline land-related transactions.

4. Digital Mapping: To facilitate digital mapping and comprehensive land documentation of rural areas, aiding in planned development and infrastructure projects.

5. Empowerment: To empower rural communities by granting legal recognition and security of land ownership, particularly to marginalized and vulnerable groups.