Topic: Devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein
Q4. The gap between constitutional devolution and functional empowerment has rendered many Panchayats symbolic. Examine. Suggest mechanisms to restore genuine decentralisation. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question:
The 2024 Panchayat Devolution Index reveals a mismatch between the legal status of PRIs and their actual autonomy, prompting urgent discourse on grassroots reforms.Key Demand of the question:
To examine how constitutional devolution has failed to translate into functional empowerment for Panchayats and propose mechanisms to restore genuine decentralisation in practice.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Mention the contrast between constitutional status under the 73rd Amendment and limited practical autonomy of Panchayats.Body
- Explain institutional, financial, and administrative factors that keep Panchayats symbolic despite devolution.
- Suggest measures like statutory function mapping, fiscal empowerment, convergence mechanisms, and capacity building to restore functional autonomy.
Conclusion
Highlight the need to evolve Panchayats from representative bodies into fully empowered units for democratic decentralisation.
