This paper analyses the decentralization in India with special interest in the history of the country and his government.
Decentralization is popularly known as Panchayati raj in India. Panchayati raj institutions have been considered as instruments of socio-economic transformation in rural India. Decentralization of power to the Panchayats is seen as a means of empowering people and involving them in decision making process. Local governments being closer to the people can be more responsive to local needs and can make better use of resources.
The democratic system in a country can be ensured only if there is mass participation in the governance. Therefore, the system of democratic decentralization popularly known as Panchayati Raj is considered as an instrument to ensure democracy and socio-economic transformation. From ancient to Mughal period village bodies were the pivot of administration. In the British period our villages remained backward and they lacked all the essentials of civilized existence. They did not have adequate communications, sanitations, public health, medical aid, good education facilities and all other things that a modern man needs as essentials of life. In the independent India, The role of the local self government acquired a new significance.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Evolution of PRI in India Pre-Independence Period
- British Period
- Ripon Resolution (1882)
- Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919
- Government of India Act (1935)
- Historical Evolution of PRI in India Post-Independence Period
- Sarvodaya Scheme
- Balwantray Mehta Committee
- Transfer of subjects
- Conformity Legislation to be passed by every State
Objectives and Key Themes
This text aims to explore the historical evolution of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India, examining their role in decentralization and socio-economic transformation. It traces the development of PRIs from ancient times to the present day, highlighting key legislative milestones and their impact on rural governance.
- The historical evolution of Panchayati Raj Institutions in India.
- The role of PRIs in decentralization and empowerment.
- The impact of PRIs on socio-economic development in rural India.
- Key legislative changes affecting PRIs.
- The connection between PRIs and democratic governance.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This introductory chapter establishes the significance of Panchayati Raj (PR) in India as a form of decentralization aimed at socio-economic transformation and empowering rural communities. It highlights the historical roots of PRIs and their role in bridging the urban-rural development gap, reducing poverty, and fostering better resource management. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of mass participation in governance for a robust democratic system, presenting PRIs as a crucial instrument in achieving this goal. Gandhi's philosophy of decentralization and his vision of village self-governance are also introduced, providing a crucial context for understanding the evolution of PRIs.
I. HISTORICAL EVOLUTION OF PRI IN INDIA PRE-INDEPENDENCE PERIOD: This chapter delves into the historical trajectory of PRIs before India's independence. It traces the origins of the Panchayat system back to ancient Indian civilization, citing references in various historical texts. The chapter then analyzes the impact of the British colonial period on the functioning of local bodies, noting marked changes in their operation. Specific attention is paid to significant legislative milestones such as the Ripon Resolution (1882), the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919, and the Government of India Act (1935), outlining their respective effects on local governance structures and powers. The chapter contrasts the pre-British era of relatively autonomous village governance with the subsequent colonial period's modifications and limitations imposed on local institutions.
Keywords
Decentralization, Panchayati Raj, Empowerment, Rural Development, Socio-economic Transformation, Local Governance, Democracy, India, British Raj, Legislative Reforms.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Guide to Panchayati Raj Institutions in India
What is the main focus of this text?
This text provides a comprehensive overview of the historical evolution of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India. It explores their role in decentralization, socio-economic transformation, and rural governance, tracing their development from ancient times to the present.
What topics are covered in the Table of Contents?
The Table of Contents includes an introduction, a detailed examination of the historical evolution of PRIs in India both before and after independence, exploring key periods and legislative milestones such as the Ripon Resolution, Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, and the Government of India Act.
What are the key objectives and themes explored?
The text aims to analyze the historical development of PRIs, their role in decentralization and empowerment, their impact on socio-economic development in rural India, key legislative changes affecting them, and their connection to democratic governance. It also highlights Gandhi's philosophy's influence on decentralization and village self-governance.
What does the chapter on pre-independence evolution cover?
This chapter traces the origins of the Panchayat system to ancient India, analyzing the impact of British colonialism on local bodies. It focuses on legislative milestones like the Ripon Resolution (1882), the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (1919), and the Government of India Act (1935), highlighting their effects on local governance structures and powers. The chapter contrasts the pre-British era with the colonial period's modifications and limitations on local institutions.
What are the key aspects of the post-independence period discussed?
The post-independence section examines initiatives like the Sarvodaya Scheme, the Balwantray Mehta Committee's recommendations, the transfer of subjects to local bodies, and the legislation mandating conformity across states. It details the key changes and their influence on the evolution of PRIs.
What are the key takeaways from the introductory chapter?
The introduction establishes the significance of Panchayati Raj in India as a decentralized system for socio-economic transformation and rural empowerment. It emphasizes the historical roots of PRIs, their role in bridging the urban-rural development gap, poverty reduction, and improved resource management. It underlines the importance of mass participation in governance and highlights Gandhi's influence on this approach.
What are the keywords associated with this text?
The keywords include: Decentralization, Panchayati Raj, Empowerment, Rural Development, Socio-economic Transformation, Local Governance, Democracy, India, British Raj, and Legislative Reforms.
What is the overall purpose of this document?
This document serves as a comprehensive preview of a larger text, providing a structured overview of its content, objectives, and key themes to facilitate academic analysis. It's designed for researchers studying themes related to Panchayati Raj, decentralization, and rural governance in India.
- Quote paper
- Dr. Arsheed Aziz Khanday (Author), 2012, Decentralization (Panchayati Raj) in India, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/427373
