The local self-government system in India has not proved to be effective instrument of governance.” Critically examine the statement and give your views to improve the situation. (Answer in 150 words)

Local governments are the constitutional third tier closest to citizens. Their democratic presence is real, but uneven devolution has limited their governance outcomes.

• Functions, funds and functionaries remain controlled by State departments; parallel agencies weaken elected councils.
• Gram Sabhas and urban ward committees often meet irregularly; capacity, data and professional staff are inadequate.
• Delayed elections, proxy representation, corruption and weak social audits reduce accountability.

1. Activity mapping, predictable State Finance Commission transfers and time-bound fund release.
2. Empower mayors and sarpanches, build municipal cadres, and provide planning and audit support.
3. Use Gram Sabha-led social audits, participatory budgeting, open data and outcome-linked evaluation.

Democratic decentralisation; subsidiarity; 3Fs; State Finance Commissions; Gram Sabha; participatory governance.