What are the main hindrances in the way of smooth functioning of Rural Local Self-Governing bodies in India? Elucidate. (HPAS Mains Question Paper 2022 – GS 2, Q.7)
Rural Local Self-Government in India is a local-level governance system that aims to empower rural communities and promote decentralisation. These institutions, also known as Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), were established in 1992 by the 73rd Amendment to the Indian Constitution. The primary goal of the Panchayati Raj system is to give people in rural areas a voice in decisions that affect their lives.
The Panchayati Raj system is divided into three levels: the Gram Panchayat, the Panchayat Samiti, and the Zilla Parishad. The Gram Panchayat is the lowest level of government and is in charge of a single village or group of villages. The Panchayat Samiti is in order of a block of several Gram Panchayats, while the Zilla Parishad oversees an entire district.
PRIs have a wide range of responsibilities, including the implementation of rural development programmes, the provision of basic amenities such as water, sanitation, and electricity, natural resource management, and social justice programmes, among others. The PRIs are also in charge of planning and implementing local development schemes and programmes, as well as monitoring the local implementation of centrally sponsored strategies.
The PRIs are formed through direct elections, with members serving five-year terms. Women are guaranteed at least one-third of the seats, and seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and other backward classes are also guaranteed (OBCs).
Some of the main hindrances in the smooth functioning of rural local self-governing bodies are:
1. Inadequate financial resources: A significant impediment to the operation of PRIs is a lack of adequate financial resources. The PRIs rely heavily on funding from the state and federal governments. However, funds are frequently delayed, and the allocated funds are often insufficient to meet the needs of local governments. Many states, for example, have not received their total allocation of funds for implementing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
2. Limited administrative capacity: PRIs’ ability to perform their functions is frequently hampered by a lack of organisational skills and resources. Many local representatives lack the training and skills to manage local governance effectively. In some states, for example, PRIs cannot carry out their duties effectively due to a lack of staff, infrastructure, and technical expertise.
3. Political interference: In India, the operation of PRIs is frequently influenced by political factors, and there is a lack of political will to devolve power to local bodies. As a result, local representatives may lack the necessary resources to carry out their responsibilities effectively. Local representatives, for example, are not allowed to make decisions independently in some states and must seek approval from higher authorities for even minor decisions.
4. Inadequate representation of marginalised groups: In PRIs, marginalised groups such as women, Dalits, and tribals are frequently underrepresented. As a result, local governments may fail to address their needs and concerns adequately. For example, in some states, women have a low representation in PRIs and cannot effectively participate in decision-making.
5. Lack of awareness and participation: A lack of understanding and participation among the local population can also impede the proper operation of PRIs. Many people may be unaware of the functions and powers of local governments and may not participate in their operations. Local representatives, for example, in some states, cannot communicate effectively with the local population due to a lack of communication skills and resources.
To address these challenges, there is a need to strengthen the capacity of PRIs, promote greater awareness and participation among the local population, and ensure greater devolution of power and resources to the local bodies. Efforts should also be made to address issues related to representation and the participation of marginalised groups in the governance process.
