Topic: Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.
3. As India is undergoing a centralising shift in its politics, there’s also been a renewed assertion of federalism. Understanding the normative basis of local self-governance is important as it promotes deeper democracy since governments that are closer to the people allow citizens to engage with public affairs more easily. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Why the question:
Debates on federalism should include larger discussions on how power should be divided and shared between governments at the Union, State, and local level.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about steps that are needed to improve the performances of local bodies amidst centralising tendencies.
Directive word:
Structure of the answer:
Begin by giving context of centralising tendencies witnessed in the Indian polity.
Body:
First, discuss the importance of local governance in India. Explain then why adequate importance to this subject was not given at the inception of the constitution.
Next, write about the appointment of various committees and experiences of planning over the years, governments recognized the importance of local self-government in the post-independence era.
Net, write about the principles of local self-government that must be stressed in order to promote social and economic development in a holistic manner. Cite measures that are needed to be taken.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
