Panchayati Raj's Decline
73rd Amendment (1992) established a three-tier panchayati raj system in rural India to deepen local governance, promote democracy, and increase women’s representation.
The system has led to significant participation of women in leadership, and many local governments now implement social sector programs.
Despite initial momentum, the panchayati raj system faces a decline due to low public participation, political interference, and reliance on centrally sponsored schemes.
Reasons for Decline
States have failed to fully devolve powers to local governments, with less than 20% of States implementing all constitutional recommendations.
There’s been a reduction in untied grants, limiting panchayats' ability to make independent decisions.
Increasing reliance on direct cash transfers (like PM-KISAN) bypasses panchayats, reducing their role in local governance.
With more people moving to cities, policy focus has shifted away from rural areas, undermining the importance of panchayats.
Reviving Panchayats
Technology & Citizen Engagement: Advancements can enhance local planning, accountability, and bridge the rural-urban divide.
Focus Areas: Panchayats can play a vital role in water conservation, renewable energy, managing common property resources, and disaster risk management.
To revive panchayats, a new vision focused on empowering local governance in rural India is essential, especially for the vast rural population still dependent on agriculture.
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