Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Multi-level planning, in its essence, refers to a hierarchical planning process where planning is undertaken at different levels – national, state, district, block, and village – with coordination between them. India adopted this approach post-independence, influenced by the Soviet model of centralized planning. However, the initial focus remained heavily centralized, with limited participation from local bodies. The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, enacted in 1992 and 1993 respectively, marked a paradigm shift, constitutionally recognizing and empowering local self-governments (LSGs) and fundamentally altering the landscape of multi-level planning in India. These amendments aimed to establish a democratic decentralization framework, bringing the government closer to the people.
Historical Context of Multi-Level Planning in India
Prior to the 73rd and 74th Amendments, planning in India was largely a top-down exercise. The Five-Year Plans, initiated in 1951, were formulated by the Planning Commission and implemented through state governments and administrative machinery. Local bodies, though existing, lacked constitutional recognition and were largely dependent on state governments for funds and functions. This resulted in a disconnect between planning and the actual needs of the people at the grassroots level.
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment (Panchayati Raj)
The 73rd Amendment aimed to revitalize Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in rural areas. Key provisions included:
- Article 243A: Provides for the constitution of Panchayats in every village.
- Article 243B & 243C: Define the composition, election, and duration of Panchayats.
- Article 243D: Mandates reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women (at least one-third).
- Article 243E: Empowers State Legislatures to make provisions for the devolution of powers and responsibilities upon Panchayats.
- Article 243G: Provides for the establishment of State Finance Commissions to review the financial position of Panchayats.
This amendment enabled PRIs to prepare plans for economic development and social justice, and to implement schemes related to 29 subjects listed in the Eleventh Schedule (e.g., agriculture, irrigation, health, education, poverty alleviation).
The 74th Constitutional Amendment (Municipalities)
The 74th Amendment focused on strengthening urban local bodies (ULBs). Key provisions included:
- Article 243Q: Provides for the constitution of Municipalities in urban areas.
- Article 243R & 243S: Define the composition, election, and duration of Municipalities.
- Article 243T: Mandates reservation of seats for SCs, STs, and women (at least one-third).
- Article 243U: Empowers State Legislatures to make provisions for the devolution of powers and responsibilities upon Municipalities.
- Article 243Y: Provides for the establishment of State Finance Commissions to review the financial position of Municipalities.
This amendment enabled ULBs to prepare plans for economic development and social justice, and to implement schemes related to 18 subjects listed in the Twelfth Schedule (e.g., urban planning, regulation of land use, water supply, sanitation).
Implications for Multi-Level Planning
The 73rd and 74th Amendments significantly impacted multi-level planning in the following ways:
- Decentralization of Planning: Planning shifted from a purely top-down approach to a more decentralized model, with PRIs and ULBs actively involved in identifying local needs and formulating plans.
- Participatory Planning: The amendments emphasized participatory planning, encouraging the involvement of local communities in the planning process.
- Devolution of Funds and Functions: The amendments mandated the devolution of funds and functions to PRIs and ULBs, enabling them to implement plans effectively. However, the extent of devolution has varied across states.
- Integration of Local Plans with National and State Plans: The amendments aimed to integrate local plans with national and state-level plans, ensuring a more holistic and coordinated approach to development.
- Strengthening Grassroots Democracy: The amendments strengthened grassroots democracy by empowering local communities to participate in decision-making processes.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite the positive impacts, several challenges remain:
- Inadequate Devolution: Many states have been reluctant to fully devolve funds and functions to PRIs and ULBs.
- Capacity Constraints: PRIs and ULBs often lack the necessary technical and administrative capacity to effectively plan and implement schemes.
- Financial Dependence: PRIs and ULBs remain heavily dependent on state government funding, limiting their autonomy.
- Lack of Coordination: Coordination between different levels of government can be weak, leading to duplication of efforts and inefficiencies.
- Political Interference: Political interference can undermine the autonomy of PRIs and ULBs.
| Feature | 73rd Amendment (PRIs) | 74th Amendment (ULBs) |
|---|---|---|
| Area of Focus | Rural Areas | Urban Areas |
| Constitutional Body | Panchayats | Municipalities |
| Subjects | 29 (Eleventh Schedule) | 18 (Twelfth Schedule) |
| Reservation | SCs, STs, Women (1/3) | SCs, STs, Women (1/3) |
Conclusion
The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments represent a landmark achievement in India’s journey towards democratic decentralization. They have fundamentally altered the landscape of multi-level planning, empowering local bodies and fostering greater participation in the development process. While challenges remain in terms of adequate devolution, capacity building, and financial autonomy, the amendments have laid a strong foundation for a more inclusive and responsive planning system. Continued efforts to address these challenges are crucial to realizing the full potential of multi-level planning and achieving sustainable and equitable development across India.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.