Question

Read the given source and answer the questions that follow:

DECENTRALISATION IN INDIA This new system of local government is the largest experiment in democracy conducted anywhere in the world. There are now about 36 lakh elected representatives in the panchayats and municipalities etc., all over the country. This number is bigger than the population of many countries in the world. Constitutional status for local government has helped to deepen democracy in our country. It has also increased women's representation and voice in our democracy. At the same time, there are many difficulties. while elections are held regularly of Panchayats and people participate enthusiastically in it but meetings of gram sabhas are not held regularly.

1. Why is Indian decentralisation considered as the largest experiment in democracy? 
2. Analyse how constitutional status for local government has helped to deepen democracy in India? 
3. Explain any two steps taken by the Indian Government for decentralisation.

Answer 1

1. The third tier of local government in India is the biggest in the world thanks to the decentralisation experiment. More than 35 lakh elected officials serve in panchayats and municipalities across the nation.
2. The 73^rd and 74^th Constitutional Amendment Acts granted constitutional status to the third branch of government. As a result, the local government now operates more effectively and has more authority in a number of areas.
3. Two steps taken by the government for decentralisation are as follows:
   1. Establishing the panchayats as the third level of government and giving them the authority and means to function effectively.
   2.  Allowing for the reservation of one third of the seats. to the female members of local government to increase their involvement in political discussions and decision-making.