Class 11 Political Science Short Questions with Answers - Local Governments

Q1. What is Local Government?
Ans: Local Government refers to the institutions that operate at the local level, close to the community. It focuses on:

• Daily life: Addressing the everyday issues and concerns of citizens.
• Community involvement: Encouraging local participation in discussions and decisions.
• Decentralisation: Distributing powers and resources to enhance local administration.

Local governments aim to create a people-friendly administration, making it easier for residents to seek help and solutions to their problems.

Q2. What is Grass-root democracy?
Ans: Grass-root democracy refers to enhancing the democratic process at the local level. It focuses on:

• Meaningful participation of citizens in decision-making.
• Promoting accountability of local administrations.
• Establishing strong and vibrant local government institutions.

This approach empowers communities to influence policies that affect their lives directly.

Q3. What is the utility of the Local Governments?
Ans: Local governments play a crucial role in community engagement and problem-solving. Their key functions include:

• Encouraging local participation in decision-making.
• Addressing local issues effectively through community involvement.
• Facilitating decentralisation of power, allowing local people to manage their own affairs.
• Strengthening democracy by empowering citizens at the grassroots level.

By involving residents in discussions about their needs and development, local governments enhance accountability and responsiveness to the community's priorities.

Q4. Who introduced the Gram Panchayat system in India?
Ans: In 1882, Lord Rippon, the Viceroy of India, initiated the establishment of local governments, known as local boards. He is regarded as the pioneer of local governance in India, advocating for:

• Increased involvement of local people in addressing community issues.
• Decentralisation of administrative power.

Following this, the Indian National Congress urged for more effective local bodies. The Government of India Act 1919 led to the formation of village panchayats in several provinces, a trend that continued with the Government of India Act 1935. During the freedom movement, Mahatma Gandhi championed the decentralisation of power, believing that empowering village panchayats was crucial for local development.

Q5. How Local governments strengthen democracy?
Ans: Local governments strengthen democracy by empowering citizens at the grassroots level. Here are some key points:

• Local people and their representatives are more familiar with community issues.
• They can effectively control decision-makers and local administrators.
• Decentralising power allows communities to decide on policies that affect their lives.
• Strengthening local government enhances democratic processes.
• Active participation in local governance fosters accountability.

In essence, local governments play a crucial role in ensuring that democracy is not just a legal framework but a practical reality in everyday life.

Q6. Discuss Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of Local government.
Ans: Mahatma Gandhi strongly supported grass-root democracy, advocating for the establishment of local governments in both rural and urban areas. His vision aimed at:

• Achieving economic and political decentralisation.
• Empowering communities to address their own issues.
• Incorporating local governance into the Directive Principles of State Policy.

Gandhi believed that local governments were essential for effective administration and democratic decision-making, as they are closest to the people.

Q7. Write the Government structure in rural areas per Balwant Rai Mehta Committee Recommendation.
Ans: The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee, appointed by the Government of India, recommended a three-tier structure for local governance in rural areas in 1957. This structure includes:

• Gram Panchayat: The base level, covering a village or a group of villages.
• Mandal Panchayat: The intermediate level, also known as Block or Taluka, which may not be present in smaller states.
• Zilla Panchayat: The apex body, overseeing the entire rural area of a district.

Additionally, the committee proposed the establishment of the Gram Sabha, consisting of all adult voters in the Panchayat area, with roles defined by state legislation. Elections for all three levels are held every five years, ensuring direct representation.

Q8. What attention was given to local governments in the constitution?
Ans: Local governments did not receive adequate attention in the Constitution. The matter was primarily left to the State governments.

• The issue of local governments was included in the Directive Principles of State Policy, which are non-justiciable and mainly advisory.
• There was a concern that strong local governance could threaten national integration.
• Prominent leaders, including Jawaharlal Nehru, viewed extreme localism as a potential risk to unity.
• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and others in the Constituent Assembly were worried about the factionalism in rural areas undermining local governance.

Despite these concerns, the importance of people's participation in development was acknowledged. Over time, recommendations were made for constitutional recognition of local governments, leading to significant amendments in 1992.

Q9. Give four lessons for the  poor functioning of local governments.
Ans: In post-independent India, local governments in rural and urban areas often struggled to function effectively due to several key issues:

• Factional politics within villages created divisions.
• The caste system influenced social dynamics and governance.
• Many local bodies faced financial challenges and relied heavily on state support.
• Bureaucratic apathy hindered local development efforts.
• Instances of violence disrupted governance and community initiatives.

Q10. What was the position of women and scheduled castes in local governments?
Ans: Women faced significant barriers in local governments:

• They were underrepresented in decision-making roles.
• Social taboos discouraged women from raising local issues, especially those affecting them.

Scheduled Castes also struggled with representation:

• They were often overshadowed by upper caste dominance in rural areas.
• This limited their participation in local governance.

Q11. Write four main provisions of the 73rd amendment of the constitution.
Ans: Main Provisions of the 73rd Amendment

• Constitutional Base: Local governments were given a formal constitutional foundation.
• Direct Elections: Elections to local governments were made direct, enhancing democratic participation.
• Fixed Tenure: The term of elected bodies was established, ensuring stability.
• Reservations: 33% of seats were reserved for women and another 33% for scheduled castes, promoting inclusivity.

Q12. What is Block Samiti and what is its function?
Ans: The Block Samiti is part of a three-tier structure in rural governance, positioned between the Gram Panchayat at the village level and the Zila Parishad at the district level. Its primary functions include:

• Fostering development at the block level.
• Addressing the agricultural needs of the local population.
• Serving as a link between the Zila Parishad and the Gram Panchayats.
• Overseeing and supervising the activities of the village Panchayats within the block.

Q13. Write the function of Panchayats.
Ans: The functions of Panchayats include:

• Discussing issues and problems faced by the village.
• Maintaining law and order and promoting cooperation within the village.
• Addressing the agricultural needs of the community.
• Coordinating with the government through the Block Samitis and Zila Parishad for village development.
• Receiving and utilising government aid effectively.
• Resolving village disputes.

Q14. How the reservations of women in local government have improved the status of women.
Ans: The rural society is predominantly male-dominated, resulting in limited representation of women in local government. To address this, a 33% reservation has been implemented, significantly enhancing women's participation in politics and democratic institutions.

• This reservation has led to an increase in the number of women in leadership roles.
• It has positively impacted the social and economic status of women.
• The profile of leadership at the village level has changed, promoting gender equality.

Q15. What are the powers of Local government?
Ans: The Constitutional amendments (73rd and 74th) assigned 29 subjects to local governments. These subjects focus on local welfare and development needs. However, much work remains to ensure that local governments are truly representative, functional, and powerful.

• Local governments are responsible for various functions related to community welfare.
• States must align their laws with these constitutional amendments.
• The 73rd Amendment focuses on rural local governments, while the 74th addresses urban local bodies.
• Both amendments aim to enhance the structure and functioning of local governance.

Q16. Discuss the meaning of Local Government.
Ans: Local government refers to the structures that manage governance at the local level, both in rural and urban areas. It serves as a means of decentralised administration, facilitating cooperation between the government and the community. The key aspects of local government include:

• Local Solutions: Local issues should be addressed by the people who understand them best.
• Facilitator Role: The government acts as a facilitator and advisor, rather than a direct manager.
• Resource Management: Local governments should have the authority to raise and use their own resources.
• Strengthening Democracy: Empowering local governments enhances democratic processes.

Ultimately, local government aims to strengthen both the community and the principles of democracy.

Q17. What is the significance of the Local government?
Ans: Local government plays a crucial role in enhancing democracy at all levels. Its significance includes:

• Strengthening grassroots democracy: Local governments empower citizens to participate in decision-making.
• Promoting accountability: These institutions encourage responsible governance.
• Encouraging local participation: Residents can engage actively in local affairs.
• Decentralising administration: Local governments improve efficiency by addressing local needs directly.
• Empowering communities: Citizens gain control over local administration and policies.

Overall, local governments are essential for a vibrant democracy, ensuring that the voices of ordinary people are heard and acted upon.

Q18. Trace the development of local governments in India.
Ans:  The local government system in India evolved from self-governing village sabhas to structured Panchayats. Lord Rippon (1882) introduced local boards, while the Government of India Acts (1919 & 1935) expanded Panchayat institutions. Mahatma Gandhi emphasized decentralization and self-reliant village governance.

Post-independence, several initiatives strengthened local governance:

• 1952: Community Development Programme encouraged local participation.
• 1960s: Gujarat & Maharashtra introduced elected local bodies.
• 1992: 73rd & 74th Constitutional Amendments granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj and urban local bodies, ensuring decentralized governance.

Q19. Discuss the constitutional position of the Local government.
Ans: The issue of local government was discussed in the Constituent Assembly, but the idea of decentralising powers did not gain much support due to the turmoil from the Partition of India. Most leaders preferred a strong central government, viewing excessive localism as a threat to national unity. However, many leaders advocated for a decentralised administration that involved public participation in local issues. Consequently, local government was included in the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Constitution.

• The Constitution assigned the subject of local government to the States.
• It is mentioned in the Directive Principles, making it non-justiciable and primarily advisory.
• Local government, including panchayats, did not receive adequate emphasis in the Constitution.
• The Partition's aftermath led to a strong unitary inclination, with leaders like Nehru viewing localism as a potential threat.
• Concerns about factionalism in rural society also influenced the discussion on local governance.

Despite these challenges, there was a consensus on the importance of people's participation in development planning, with many advocating for Village Panchayats as the foundation of democracy.

Q20. Discuss the working of local government in the post-independence period.
Ans:  After independence, local governments faced several challenges:

• Bureaucratic Apathy: Limited responsiveness and efficiency.
• Financial Constraints: Poor funding hindered development.
• Dysfunctional Governance: Many bodies remained inactive.
• Social Disparities: Poor representation of women and Scheduled Castes; dominance of upper castes.
• Limited Powers: Lack of autonomy and excessive political interference.
• State Dependence: Heavy reliance on state and central support.

Many states dissolved local bodies and replaced them with government officials. Elections were often delayed or held indirectly. In 1987, the P.K. Thungon Committee recommended constitutional recognition, leading to amendments that assigned 29 subjects to local governments.

Despite reforms, local governments still face limitations due to the incomplete transfer of power from states, making their role often symbolic rather than truly autonomous.

Q21. What was Balwant Rai Mehta Committee? Report?
Ans: The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee was established by the Indian government after the implementation of the Constitution. Its purpose was to examine the structure of local government as outlined in the Directive Principles of State Policy. The committee focused on the following key aspects:

• Studied the issues related to local governance in rural areas.
• Recommended a three-tier structure for local government.
• Emphasised the importance of local self-governance.

Overall, the committee's recommendations aimed to enhance the effectiveness and autonomy of local governments in rural India.

Q22. Discuss the background of the 73rd and 74th constitutional amendments.
Ans: The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments were introduced to strengthen local governance in India. Most states had weak local bodies, except Gujarat and Rajasthan. Recognizing the need for reform, PM Narasimha Rao (1991) prioritized restructuring. The amendments were passed in 1992 and came into effect in 1993, with states given one year to comply.

• 73rd Amendment: Established a three-tier Panchayati Raj system for rural areas.
• 74th Amendment: Applied similar provisions to urban local bodies (Nagarpalikas).
• Both ensured direct elections, reservations for marginalized groups, and the creation of State Election & Finance Commissions.

Q23. Write main features of 73rd and 74th constitutional amendments.
Ans: The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments introduced significant changes to local governance in India. The key features include:

• Constitutional Status: Local governments were granted constitutional recognition.
• Direct Elections: Elections for local bodies are now conducted directly.
• Fixed Tenure: The term for local government representatives is set at five years.
• Reservation for Women: 33% of seats are reserved for women.
• Scheduled Castes Reservation: 33% of seats are also reserved for Scheduled Castes.
• State Election Commissioner: A provision was made for appointing a State Election Commissioner.
• State Finance Commission: Establishment of a State Finance Commission was mandated.

The 74th Amendment mirrors many provisions of the 73rd Amendment but focuses on urban local bodies, ensuring similar governance structures and functions. Both amendments have led to substantial changes in local leadership and governance across states.

Q24. Discuss the utility of reservation of seats for women and scheduled castes and OBC in Local Government.
Ans:  Before the 73rd and 74th Amendments, women and weaker sections had minimal representation in local government. The introduction of 33% reservation for women and reservation for Scheduled Castes and OBCs ensured their political inclusion.

• Empowered marginalized groups and increased their participation in governance.
• Strengthened decision-making roles for women and weaker sections.
• Improved political recruitment and leadership opportunities.
• Enhanced social and economic status at the grassroots level.

These provisions have transformed local governance by making it more inclusive and representative.

Q25. Discuss the composition of the state finance commission.
Ans: The State Finance Commission is appointed by the state government every five years, as mandated by the 73rd constitutional amendment. Its main responsibilities include:

• Assessing the financial position of local governments within the state.
• Reviewing the distribution of revenues between the state and local governments.
• Ensuring fair allocation of funds between rural and urban local governments.
• Monitoring the financial health of local governments to prevent misuse of funds.

This commission plays a crucial role in maintaining the proper allocation and use of funds, ensuring that financial matters are handled transparently and effectively.

Q26. Discuss the main provisions of the 74th amendment.
Ans: The 74th Amendment focuses on the organisation of local bodies in urban areas, addressing their unique needs. Key points include:

• Approximately 31% of India's population resides in urban areas.
• It mirrors the 73rd Amendment, applying similar provisions to urban local bodies, known as Nagarpalikas.
• Provisions include:
  • Direct elections
  • Reservations for various groups
  • Transfer of subjects from the state government
  • Establishment of a State Election Commission and State Finance Commission
• The Constitution mandates the transfer of specific functions to urban local bodies, detailed in the Twelfth Schedule.
• All states have enacted legislation to implement these amendments, leading to multiple rounds of local elections since their introduction in 1994.

Q27. Discuss the implementation of the 73rd and 74th Amendments of the constitution.
Ans: The 73rd and 74th Amendments to the Indian Constitution have established a constitutional framework for local governance, making it compulsory for all states to revise their laws accordingly. Key points include:

• Nearly 500 Zila Parishads and about 6,000 Block Samitis exist in rural India.
• In urban areas, there are over 100 city corporations, 1,400 town municipalities, and more than 2,000 Nagar Panchayats.
• Over 32 lakh members are elected to these local bodies every five years, with approximately 10 lakh being women.
• The amendments have created uniformity in both urban and rural local governments.

The 73rd Amendment focuses on rural governance, establishing a three-tier structure:

• Gram Panchayat: The base level covering villages.
• Block Samiti: The intermediary level.
• Zila Parishad: The top tier overseeing the entire district.

The 74th Amendment mirrors the 73rd but applies to urban areas, mandating the transfer of specific functions to urban local bodies as detailed in the Twelfth Schedule of the Constitution. Since the amendments came into effect in 1993, states have conducted multiple elections, enhancing local governance across India.

Q28. State the improvement in the status of women as a result of reservation in seats in Local government.
Ans: The reservation for women in Panchayati Raj and Nagarpalika institutions has significantly improved their status in local governance. Key improvements include:

• Increased representation: A substantial number of women now hold positions in local bodies.
• Leadership roles: Many women have become Sarpanch and Adhyaksha, changing the leadership profile at the village level.
• Statistics:
  • Over 200 women serve as Presidents of Zila Parishad.
  • Approximately 2,000 women are Presidents of Block Samitis.
  • More than 8,000 women hold the position of Sarpanch in Gram Panchayats.
  • 30 women serve as Mayors in corporations.
  • Over 500 women are Presidents of Town Municipalities.
  • Nearly 650 Nagar Panchayats are headed by women.
• Empowerment: Women have gained confidence and a better understanding of political processes.
• Changing dynamics: Instances of women being mere proxies for male family members are decreasing.

Overall, the 73rd and 74th Amendments have played a crucial role in enhancing the status of women in local governance.

Q29. State the improvement in the status of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes as a result of reservation by the 73rd and 74th Amendments.
Ans: Before the 73rd and 74th Amendments, there were some reserved seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and State Assemblies. However, there was no reservation for these communities in local government. Despite having the right to vote, SCs and STs were often underrepresented due to their socio-economic conditions. Key improvements following the amendments include:

• Introduction of a 33% reservation for SCs and STs in local bodies.
• Increased representation of SCs and STs in local governance, allowing them to hold significant positions.
• Approximately 6.6 lakh elected members from these communities now serve in urban and local bodies.
• As SCs make up 16.2% and STs 8.2% of the Indian population, their representation has notably improved.

This shift has significantly enhanced the status of SCs and STs, making local bodies more reflective of India's diverse social fabric.

Q30. Assess the performance of local government after the 73rd and 74th amendments.
Ans: Local Governments have undergone significant changes due to the 73rd and 74th amendments, which have decentralised powers and responsibilities.

• The amendments have empowered local governments with wider authority over local resources.
• Important subjects are now managed at the local level, promoting real decentralisation of power.
• Local government structures now include elected representatives from Scheduled Castes, backward castes, and women.
• Decisions are made collaboratively, enhancing the democratic process.
• The range of activities for local bodies has expanded significantly.

Overall, these amendments represent a crucial step towards democratisation and decentralisation. However, it is essential to ensure that these provisions are implemented effectively to realise their full potential.