Introduction
Decentralisation is the process of transferring power and authority from central to lower levels of government. It includes both political and administrative aspects, which are crucial to ensuring responsive, accountable, and efficient governance. The politico-administrative components refer to the institutional framework, policies, legal provisions, and administrative mechanisms that support decentralised governance.
Politico-Administrative Components of Decentralisation
1. Political Components
- Constitutional Provisions: The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts provide a legal framework for democratic decentralisation through Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
- Elections and Representation: Regular elections, reservations for SC/STs and women, and the establishment of Gram Sabhas ensure democratic participation at the local level.
- Accountability Mechanisms: Political decentralisation enhances accountability by making elected representatives answerable to their constituencies.
2. Administrative Components
- Devolution of Functions: The Eleventh and Twelfth Schedules list the functions to be devolved to local bodies, such as health, education, sanitation, and local infrastructure.
- Transfer of Functionaries: Local governance requires adequate staffing. Administrative decentralisation involves assigning officials to local bodies.
- Capacity Building: Training of staff and elected representatives is essential to enhance administrative effectiveness.
- Financial Autonomy: Fiscal decentralisation is part of administrative components, including grants, taxes, and budgetary powers to local governments.
Challenges in the Politico-Administrative Framework
- Lack of effective devolution of powers and responsibilities
- Weak institutional capacity and training mechanisms
- Political interference and lack of autonomy
- Inadequate financial support and dependency on state governments
- Poor coordination between administrative and political wings
Measures to Strengthen Politico-Administrative Components
1. Deepening Devolution
Ensure full implementation of the 73rd and 74th Amendment provisions by transferring all 29 and 18 functions listed in the schedules to PRIs and ULBs, respectively.
2. Strengthening Elections and Participation
Conduct regular and fair elections and strengthen Gram Sabhas and Ward Committees to enhance democratic participation.
3. Capacity Building
Provide regular training and orientation programs for both elected representatives and local government staff. Use digital platforms for wider outreach.
4. Clear Role Definition
Define clear roles and responsibilities of elected representatives and administrative functionaries to avoid overlap and confusion.
5. Fiscal Empowerment
Provide untied grants, enhance local revenue sources, and ensure timely fund transfers to local bodies for financial independence.
6. Strengthening State Finance Commissions
Ensure regular constitution of State Finance Commissions and implementation of their recommendations for fair distribution of resources.
7. Use of Technology
Adopt e-governance tools for transparency, monitoring, and efficient service delivery at the local level.
Conclusion
The politico-administrative components of decentralisation form the foundation of grassroots democracy and local governance. Strengthening them requires legal, administrative, and financial reforms, as well as active political will. By empowering local institutions through genuine devolution and capacity building, we can achieve inclusive and participatory development that truly reflects the aspirations of the people.