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Decentralization is a basic form of democratic government that transfer power, resources and empowers the local people as the decision makers for the local governing system. Since the inception in the Indian Constitution, decentralization was predicated to strengthen local political organizations, increase their democratic nature, and establish institutions that would cater to the interests and needs of the people. It envisages increasing local government institutions’ accountability and performance which would enhance development and transparency of governance at the grass root level. There are various theoretical benefits associated with decentralization, and already three decades have passed since the introduction of the 73rd and 74th Amendment Act in 1992. However, in many instances, realizing these idealistic decentralization goals has proven to be extremely difficult. The study therefore seeks to examine if decentralization is improving service delivery at the local level as envisioned. Although, efforts were made to facilitate effective and accountable local governance, various factors have hindered decentralization to fully achieve its objectives. The study attempts to identify the ‘missing link’ which has hampered the efficacy of decentralized government in India.
- et al. (Sat,) studied this question.