UPSC Mains 2020 GS2 Q13 — Local Self Government
The strength and sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of 'Functions, Functionaries and Funds' to the contemporary stage of 'Functionality'. Highlight the critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality in recent times. (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Highlight
- Scope keywords
- local institutions in Indiaformative phaseFunctions, Functionaries and Fundscontemporary stage of Functionalitycritical challenges
- Implicit sub-parts
- Brief evolution from the 3Fs (devolution) to Functionality (performance and outcomes).
- Analysis of structural hurdles preventing the translation of powers into efficient public service delivery.
- The impact of technology (e-governance) and direct intervention schemes on the autonomy of local bodies.
- Suggested reforms to bridge the gap between being 'empowered' and being 'functional'.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending 150+ words defining the 73rd and 74th Amendments rather than focusing on the 'Functionality' shift.
- Confusing 'Functionality' with the classic 3Fs; failing to address why even funded/staffed bodies fail to deliver outcomes.
- Ignoring the urban local body (ULB) dimension and focusing only on Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
- Failing to mention contemporary issues like the 'Sarpanch-Pati' culture, data-driven governance hurdles, or the impact of parastatal agencies.
- Dimensions required
- Governance and AdministrationFinancial Autonomy and ViabilityTechnological IntegrationSociological (Inclusivity and Power Dynamics)Constitutional and Legal
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 40-50 words to explain the shift from 3Fs to the 'Functionality' paradigm. Devote the bulk (150 words) to 5-6 distinct challenges regarding functionality like proxy-representation, lack of technical capacity for e-governance, and interference by parastatals. Use the final 50 words for forward-looking solutions and a concluding vision.
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