Question 29 from UPSC CSE 2017 - Polity and
Governance

Question

Local self-government can be best explained as an exercise in

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: B. Democratic decentralization

Strategy: The question asks for the 'best' explanation for 'local self-government'. Evaluate each option against this core concept. 'Federalism' refers to the Center-State power division, which is a broader concept. 'Administrative delegation' means transferring tasks but not ultimate authority, which is weaker than self-government. 'Direct democracy' involves citizens voting on all issues, which is not how Panchayats or Municipalities primarily function; they are representative bodies. 'Democratic decentralization' precisely captures the essence: transferring power ('decentralization') to elected bodies ('democratic') at the local level. This makes it the most accurate choice.

Key Info: **Local Self-Government**
Local self-government refers to the management of local affairs by representatives elected by the local people. It is a system where local communities have the power to govern themselves in matters of local importance. In India, this system was constitutionalized through the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, 1992, which established Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) for rural areas and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) for urban areas. The core idea is to foster grassroots democracy and ensure citizen participation in governance.

**Democratic Decentralization**
This is the process of devolution of powers, functions, and resources from the central or state governments to subordinate or quasi-independent local government units. The term 'democratic' emphasizes that these local units are governed by elected representatives. The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) famously described the Panchayati Raj system as a mechanism for 'democratic decentralization'. It aims to enhance efficiency, responsiveness, and accountability in governance by bringing decision-making closer to the people.

**Federalism**
Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central government and various constituent units (like states). India is a quasi-federal country with a constitutional division of subjects between the Union and the States (Seventh Schedule). While local self-government is a feature of a multi-level governance system, federalism specifically pertains to the Center-State relationship, not the devolution of power to local bodies within a state.

**Administrative Delegation**
This is a managerial concept where a superior authority assigns specific tasks or duties to a subordinate. However, the ultimate responsibility and authority remain with the superior. It is a transfer of function, not power. Local self-government involves devolution, which is a transfer of power and autonomy, making it a much stronger concept than mere delegation.

**Direct Democracy**
This is a form of governance where citizens participate directly in decision-making, rather than through elected representatives. Mechanisms include referendums, initiatives, and plebiscites. While the Gram Sabha in the Indian Panchayati Raj system has elements of direct democracy, the overall structure of local self-government in India is based on representative democracy, where people elect representatives to govern on their behalf.

Answer

Option A: Federalism

Answer

Option C: Administrative delegation

Answer

Option D: Direct democracy