Implementation of 73rd and 74th Amendments| Class 11 Polity Notes

Since the enactment of the 73rd and 74th amendments, significant progress has been made in the implementation of local governance structures across India.

States have adopted legislation to align with these amendments, leading to multiple rounds of elections at the local level.

Implementation of 73rd and 74th Amendments

Since the implementation of the 73rd and 74th amendments, all states have enacted laws to adhere to these amendments, leading to the establishment of a uniform structure for Panchayati Raj and Nagarpalika institutions across the country. With over 600 Zilla Panchayats, 6,000 Block or Intermediary Panchayats, and 2,40,000 Gram Panchayats in rural areas, as well as over 100 city Corporations, 1,400 Town Municipalities, and 2,000 Nagar Panchayats in urban areas, there has been a significant increase in the number of elected representatives, especially women.

The introduction of reservations for women has resulted in a substantial representation of women in local bodies, with many holding leadership positions such as Adhyakshas and Sarpanchas. Similarly, reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes have diversified the social profile of local bodies, although tensions may arise from power struggles among dominant social groups.

Despite the constitutional assignment of 29 subjects to local governments, many states have not fully transferred these subjects, limiting the autonomy and effectiveness of local bodies. This reliance on state and central governments for financial support has hindered the ability of local bodies to operate effectively, as they generate minimal revenue compared to their expenditures.

Overall, while the establishment of local bodies has provided a platform for grassroots participation and diversified representation, the gap between theoretical mandates and practical implementation remains a challenge, as local bodies continue to face limitations in decision-making and resource allocation.

Growth in Local Bodies

Today, rural India boasts over 600 Zilla Panchayats, approximately 6,000 block or intermediary Panchayats, and around 2,40,000 Gram Panchayats. Similarly, urban areas host more than 100 city Corporations, 1400 town Municipalities, and over 2000 Nagar Panchayats.

These bodies collectively represent the interests of millions of citizens, with over 32 lakh members elected every five years, of which around 13 lakhs are women.

Empowerment of Women

One of the significant outcomes of these amendments is the increased participation and empowerment of women in local governance.

Reservation policies have ensured a substantial presence of women in leadership roles across various tiers of Panchayati Raj and Nagarpalika institutions. This has not only enhanced women’s representation but also their confidence and decision-making capabilities.

Social Representation and Conflict

Besides gender empowerment, reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Castes have diversified the social profile of local bodies.

While this reflects a more inclusive representation, it has also led to tensions, as dominant social groups resist relinquishing power. However, such tensions signify a struggle towards meaningful democracy and equitable power distribution.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite the achievements, challenges persist in the effective functioning of local bodies. Limited autonomy and inadequate resource allocation hamper their ability to address local development needs.

With local bodies raising a mere fraction of their total expenditure, heavy reliance on state and central grants undermines their operational capacity.

Conclusion

The implementation of the 73rd and 74th amendments has undoubtedly ushered in a new era of local governance in India, marked by increased representation and empowerment of marginalized groups.

However, to realize their full potential, local bodies require greater autonomy and financial independence to effectively serve the needs of their communities. Addressing these challenges is crucial for fostering inclusive and participatory governance at the grassroots level.

Implementation of 73rd and 74th Amendments- FAQs

How many local bodies exist in rural and urban India post the amendments?

Post the 73rd and 74th amendments, rural India has over 600 Zilla Panchayats, approximately 6,000 block or intermediary Panchayats, and around 2,40,000 Gram Panchayats. Urban areas host more than 100 city Corporations, 1400 town Municipalities, and over 2000 Nagar Panchayats.

What impact have reservation policies had on the representation of women in local governance?

Reservation policies have ensured a significant presence of women in local governance. Approximately 13 lakhs out of over 32 lakh members elected to local bodies every five years are women. These policies have empowered women and increased their participation in decision-making roles across various tiers of Panchayati Raj and Nagarpalika institutions.

How have the social dynamics within local bodies changed due to reservations for marginalized communities?

Reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Castes have diversified the social profile of local bodies. While reflecting a more inclusive representation, it has also led to tensions as dominant social groups resist relinquishing power. However, such tensions signify a struggle towards meaningful democracy and equitable power distribution.

What are the major challenges hindering the effective functioning of local bodies?

Limited autonomy and inadequate resource allocation are major challenges hindering the effective functioning of local bodies. Despite raising a mere fraction of their total expenditure, heavy reliance on state and central grants undermines their operational capacity.

What steps are needed to enhance the autonomy and financial independence of local governments?

Enhancing the autonomy and financial independence of local governments requires measures such as decentralization of powers, fiscal devolution, and capacity building. Empowering local bodies to generate revenue through local taxation and providing them greater control over their finances are crucial steps towards achieving this goal.