Q. Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at local level and bring out the pros and cons merging the rural local bodies with the urban local bodies.
UPSC Mains 2024 GS2 Paper
Model Answer:
Local bodies – Good Governance
Local bodies play a crucial role in providing good governance at the grassroots level, serving as the foundation of democratic decentralization. Their significance lies in:
• Empowering citizens: Local bodies facilitate direct participation in decision-making processes, enhancing democratic values. For instance, Gram Sabhas in rural areas allow villagers to voice their concerns and influence local policies.
• Efficient service delivery: Being closer to the people, local bodies can better understand and address community needs. The success of Kerala’s Kudumbashree program in poverty alleviation demonstrates the effectiveness of local governance.
• Accountability and transparency: Local representatives are directly answerable to their constituents, fostering responsible governance.
• Customized solutions: Local bodies can tailor policies to suit specific regional requirements, ensuring more effective implementation.
Merging rural and urban local bodies presents both advantages and challenges:
Pros:
• Integrated development: It can lead to balanced growth, reducing rural-urban disparities.
• Resource optimization: Pooling resources can result in more efficient utilization and cost-effective administration.
• Holistic planning: A unified approach can address interconnected issues like migration and suburban development more effectively.
Cons:
• Neglect of rural concerns: Urban issues might dominate, sidelining rural priorities.
• Loss of specialized focus: The distinct needs of rural and urban areas may not receive adequate attention.
• Administrative challenges: Managing diverse populations and vast geographical areas could prove complex.
Conclusion: While local bodies are essential for good governance, merging rural and urban entities requires careful consideration to balance efficiency with equitable representation.
