ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 4(a) 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments and Democratic Decentralisation

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question 4(a) 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments. Detailed answer discussing the achievements and challenges of democratic decentralisation in India after 25 years.

73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments and Democratic Decentralisation

ISS Previous Year Paper 2020 GS Solution Question

Q.4(a) “73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts completed twenty-five years of their existence, however, a lot is yet to be achieved.” Discuss the statement in the light of devolution of powers enshrined in the Constitution.

Answer : 

The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments marked a significant step towards democratic decentralisation by establishing elected local governments in rural and urban areas. They sought to transfer powers, responsibilities, and resources to local bodies through the principle of devolution.

Several achievements have been recorded. Regular local elections have strengthened democratic participation and increased representation of women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes. Local governments have become important institutions for delivering public services and implementing development programs.

However, the full objectives of these amendments have not yet been achieved. A major challenge is the incomplete transfer of the Three Fs – Functions, Funds, and Functionaries. In many states, local bodies continue to depend heavily on state governments for finances and administrative support.

Although the Constitution provides for the devolution of subjects listed in the Eleventh and Twelfth Schedules, actual transfer of powers varies considerably across states. Many Panchayats and Municipalities lack adequate financial autonomy and administrative capacity.

State Finance Commissions are often irregular in their functioning, and local bodies face shortages of skilled personnel. Excessive bureaucratic control and limited decision-making authority further restrict their effectiveness.

Therefore, while constitutional decentralisation has created an institutional framework for grassroots governance, genuine empowerment of local bodies remains a work in progress.

Conclusion

The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments have significantly strengthened local democracy in India. However, meaningful decentralisation requires greater devolution of powers, adequate financial resources, and stronger institutional capacity at the grassroots level.