Lord Ripon, also known as George Robinson, is considered the father of Local-self-government in India. He served as the Viceroy of India from 1880 to 1884. During his tenure, Lord Ripon introduced several significant reforms that aimed to empower the local communities and promote self-governance at the grassroots level.

Key Reforms Introduced by Lord Ripon:
1. Local Self-Government Act (1882): Lord Ripon's most significant contribution was the enactment of the Local Self-Government Act in 1882. This act provided for the establishment of local bodies in urban and rural areas, known as Municipalities and Local Boards respectively. These bodies were entrusted with the responsibility of managing local affairs, including sanitation, public health, water supply, and infrastructure development.

2. Reservation of Seats for Indians: Lord Ripon's administration also introduced a provision for the reservation of seats in the local bodies, ensuring representation for Indians in the decision-making process. This step aimed to encourage the participation of Indian citizens in governance and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.

3. Financial Autonomy: Lord Ripon emphasized the financial autonomy of the local bodies. He introduced the concept of earmarking a portion of the revenue for local expenditure, ensuring that the local bodies had the necessary resources to carry out their functions effectively.

4. Educational Reforms: Lord Ripon also focused on educational reforms. He supported the expansion of government-funded schools and encouraged the establishment of vernacular schools to promote education among the masses. His efforts aimed to empower the local communities by providing them with access to education and knowledge.

Significance of Lord Ripon's Reforms:
Lord Ripon's reforms had a lasting impact on the governance structure of India. They laid the foundation for decentralized governance and the principles of local self-government. By granting decision-making power and financial autonomy to the local bodies, Lord Ripon aimed to empower the Indian population and promote their active participation in governance. These reforms also played a crucial role in nurturing the spirit of democracy and fostering a sense of citizenship among the Indian people.

In conclusion, Lord Ripon is rightly regarded as the father of Local-self-government in India due to his pioneering efforts in introducing reforms that aimed to empower the local communities and promote self-governance. His reforms laid the groundwork for decentralized governance and the active participation of the Indian population in decision-making processes.