Chapter 2 · Question 4
Why is decentralisation important?
Answer
Direct Answer
Decentralisation transfers power from central and state governments to local bodies. It brings decision-making closer to people, improves participation, addresses local needs better, and strengthens democracy at the grassroots.
Simple Explanation
Decentralisation sends power to local bodies so decisions are made closer to people, local needs get better attention, and more citizens can participate in democracy.
Exam-Ready Structure
Decentralisation — the transfer of power and responsibility from central and state governments to local governments — is important for the following reasons:
• Closer to the people: Local government representatives are more accessible to ordinary citizens than distant state or central authorities. People can raise issues directly with their ward member or panchayat representative.
• Better understanding of local needs: Local bodies are best placed to identify local priorities — drinking water supply, sanitation, village roads, primary schools, primary health centres — because they live in and know the community.
• Increased participation: Decentralisation creates space for people, especially women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes, to participate in decision-making. Reservations of seats in Panchayats and Municipalities have brought previously marginalised groups into governance.
• Efficient use of resources: Local planning and spending can be more efficient because local people can monitor projects directly and hold their representatives accountable.
• Deepening of democracy: A vast three-tier democratic system with over 3 million elected local representatives makes India one of the most deeply democratic countries in the world.
• Constitutional backing in India: The 73rd Amendment (1992) for rural Panchayats and the 74th Amendment for urban Municipalities made local self-government a constitutional requirement, with regular elections, reservation of seats, and devolution of funds and functions.
Key Points
- Decentralisation transfers power from central and state governments to local bodies.
- It brings decision-making closer to people, improves participation, addresses local needs better, and strengthens democracy at the grassroots.