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UPSC MainsECONOMICS-PAPER-II201610 Marks150 Words
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Q1.

Explain the salient features of 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments in India and elaborate the impact of its implementation.

How to Approach

This question requires a structured response detailing the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, focusing on their key provisions and subsequent impact. The answer should begin by briefly outlining the pre-amendment scenario, then systematically explain the features of each amendment, and finally, analyze their impact on rural and urban local bodies. A comparative approach highlighting differences between the two amendments will be beneficial. Focus on constitutional provisions, legal frameworks, and real-world outcomes.

Model Answer

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Introduction

Prior to the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments (1992 & 1993 respectively), local bodies in India lacked constitutional recognition, leading to inconsistencies in their structure, functions, and elections. These amendments aimed to institutionalize local self-governance, bringing democracy closer to the grassroots level. Inspired by the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) and later the Ashok Mehta Committee (1978), these amendments sought to create vibrant, self-governing institutions in rural and urban areas, fostering participatory democracy and responsive governance. They added new Parts IX and IXA to the Constitution, respectively, dealing with Panchayats and Municipalities.

73rd Constitutional Amendment (Panchayats)

The 73rd Amendment aimed to establish Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in villages. Its salient features include:

  • Part IX of the Constitution: Added provisions relating to Panchayats.
  • Article 243A: Defines Panchayats and constitutes them.
  • Article 243B: Outlines the composition of Panchayats.
  • Article 243C: Deals with elections to Panchayats.
  • Article 243D: Reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women (at least one-third of seats).
  • Article 243E: Duration of Panchayats (5 years).
  • Article 243F: Disqualification for membership.
  • Article 243G: State Finance Commission to review the financial position of Panchayats.
  • Article 243H: Powers, authority, and responsibilities of Panchayats to be defined by State Legislatures.
  • 11th Schedule: Lists 29 subjects that can be devolved to Panchayats.

74th Constitutional Amendment (Municipalities)

The 74th Amendment focused on strengthening urban local bodies (ULBs). Key features include:

  • Part IXA of the Constitution: Added provisions relating to Municipalities.
  • Article 243P: Defines Municipalities and constitutes them.
  • Article 243Q: Outlines the composition of Municipalities.
  • Article 243R: Deals with elections to Municipalities.
  • Article 243S: Reservation of seats for SCs, STs, and women (at least one-third of seats).
  • Article 243T: Duration of Municipalities (5 years).
  • Article 243U: Disqualification for membership.
  • Article 243V: State Finance Commission to review the financial position of Municipalities.
  • Article 243W: Powers, authority, and responsibilities of Municipalities to be defined by State Legislatures.
  • 12th Schedule: Lists 18 subjects that can be devolved to Municipalities.

Comparative Analysis

Feature 73rd Amendment (Panchayats) 74th Amendment (Municipalities)
Focus Rural Local Bodies Urban Local Bodies
Constitutional Part Part IX Part IXA
Schedule 11th Schedule (29 subjects) 12th Schedule (18 subjects)
Population Criterion Not explicitly defined Varies based on state laws; generally considers population density and revenue generation.

Impact of Implementation

The implementation of these amendments has had a significant impact:

  • Increased Participation: Enhanced political participation of women, SCs, and STs in local governance.
  • Decentralization of Power: Transfer of functions, funds, and functionaries to local bodies, promoting decentralization.
  • Improved Service Delivery: Better provision of basic services like water supply, sanitation, and primary education.
  • Strengthened Grassroots Democracy: Empowered local communities to address their specific needs and concerns.
  • Challenges: Despite progress, challenges remain, including inadequate financial resources, lack of trained personnel, and interference from state governments. A 2019 report by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj highlighted the uneven devolution of funds and functions across states.

Conclusion

The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments represent a landmark achievement in India’s journey towards decentralized governance. While they have successfully institutionalized local self-governance and fostered greater participation, sustained efforts are needed to address the remaining challenges and ensure the effective functioning of PRIs and ULBs. Strengthening financial devolution, capacity building, and promoting greater accountability are crucial for realizing the full potential of these amendments and achieving truly responsive and inclusive local governance.

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.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Decentralization
The transfer of authority and responsibility from a central authority to lower levels, typically local governments or administrative units.
Devolution
The transfer of powers and responsibilities from a central authority to subordinate entities, such as local governments.

Key Statistics

As of January 2024, there are 2.46 lakh Panchayats and 4,378 Municipal Corporations, Municipalities and Nagar Panchayats in India.

Source: Ministry of Panchayati Raj & Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (as of knowledge cutoff - Jan 2024)

According to a 2021 study by the PRS Legislative Research, the share of state finances devolved to local bodies varies significantly across states, ranging from less than 1% to over 10%.

Source: PRS Legislative Research (as of knowledge cutoff - 2021)

Examples

Kerala’s People’s Plan Campaign

Launched in 1996, this campaign in Kerala successfully decentralized planning and resource allocation to local bodies, leading to significant improvements in infrastructure and social development.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the role of State Election Commissions?

State Election Commissions (SECs) are responsible for conducting elections to Panchayats and Municipalities, ensuring free and fair polls as per the provisions of the 73rd and 74th Amendments.

Topics Covered

PolityGovernanceConstitutional LawConstitutional AmendmentsLocal Self-GovernmentDecentralization
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