ABSTRACT
This book explores experiences, issues and challenges which have emerged since Constitutional status was granted to the local bodies at grassroots level in India in the early 1990s. Among other issues, it focuses on:
- the contrasting political ideas of Mahatma Gandhi and B. R. Ambedkar on Panchayati Raj Institutions
- the legal and constitutional provisions which were introduced through the 73rd and 74th Amendment Acts
- the devolution process, status and challenges of democracy for local governmental bodies
- empowerment of the women and lower castes through reservations in the local bodies
- governance in Schedule V and VI tribal areas
Based on extensive fieldwork across India, this volume will be useful to scholars and researchers of political science, sociology, public administration as well as policymakers and civil society activists.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
chapter 4|16 pages
Issues in devolution of functions, functionaries and funds to PRIs
A comparative assessment of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Kerala
chapter 5|13 pages
Reservations in the Panchayati Raj Institutions and empowerment of the Dalits in Uttar Pradesh
Achievements and limitations
chapter 8|28 pages
The status of forest rights and self-governance among the tribes in the protected areas
Nagarjuna Sagar-Srisailam Wildlife Sanctuary
chapter 9|18 pages
Decentralized governance in Northeast India
A comparative study of Bodoland Territorial Council and Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council
chapter 10|18 pages
Decentralisation and civil society
Elementary education management in Madhya Pradesh