Yes and no: On the erosion of India’s grassroots democracy
This article highlights the ongoing erosion of grassroots democracy in India, emphasizing the critical need to protect the autonomy of Gram Sabhas. It argues that empowering these local bodies to give or withhold consent is essential for true decentralized governance, environmental protection, and tribal rights. The piece underscores the gaps between constitutional mandates and the ground reality of local self-governance.
Read source at The Hindu — National →Mains Practice Question
The Gram Sabha is envisioned as the cornerstone of participatory democracy in India. However, its effectiveness has been systematically constrained by legislative workarounds and bureaucratic overreach. Critically analyze this statement in the context of developmental decision-making and tribal rights.
250 words
Practice this in the exam hall →Prelims Practice MCQ
With reference to the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), consider the following statements: 1. Gram Sabhas have the power to prevent alienation of land in the Scheduled Areas. 2. Ownership of minor forest produce is vested in the Gram Sabhas. 3. Gram Sabhas possess the mandatory power to manage local agro-forestry and minor irrigation canals. Which of the statements given above are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Under the PESA Act, 1996, Gram Sabhas/Panchayats at the appropriate level are endowed with specific powers. This includes the power to prevent alienation of land in Scheduled Areas, ownership of minor forest produce, and the power to plan and manage minor water bodies (including minor irrigation) in these areas.
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