Municipalities | Lucent for GK - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

Urban Local Government refers to the governance of urban areas by elected representatives, reflecting democratic decentralization and people's participation. With urban population and GDP contribution being substantial, urban centers play a crucial role as engines of economic growth. The historical evolution of local self-government in India, from the first municipal corporation in Madras to the Government of India Act of 1935, paved the way for significant developments in post-independence.

74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992: Revitalizing Urban Governance

The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 aimed to strengthen urban governments as effective "units of local government." With a new Part IX A, 'The Municipalities,' and the addition of the Twelfth Schedule with 18 functional items, the Act granted constitutional status to municipalities, making them justiciable. State governments were obligated to adopt the new system of municipalities in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

Salient Features of the Act

The Act introduced three types of municipalities based on the area they govern: nagar panchayat, municipal council, and municipal corporation. It also emphasized representation, reservation of seats for SC, ST, and women, and provided for a five-year term for municipalities. The Act vested powers in the state legislature for endowing municipalities with necessary authority for economic development, social justice, and the implementation of various schemes.

Types of Urban Government

India's urban local governments comprise eight distinct types, each serving different areas and populations. These include Municipal Corporations for big cities, Municipalities for towns and smaller cities, Notified Area Committees for developing towns, Town Area Committees for small towns, Cantonment Boards for civilian populations in cantonment areas, Township authorities by public enterprises, Port Trusts to manage ports and provide amenities, and Special Purpose Agencies for specific functions.

Urbanization and Challenges

Urban centers experience creeping and haphazard growth, leading to economic urbanization. To address challenges in urban governance, the principles of subsidiarity, democratic decentralization, delineation of functions, and convergence must be applied. Effective monitoring, implementation, and regulation are vital for efficient urban governance. The establishment of a local body Ombudsman and direct fund transfers from the Center to ULBs can enhance performance.