IV. Answer the following questions in detail.
1. What is the significance of local self-government in India?
2. Describe the main functions of the Gram Panchayat.) are:-
3. What is the composition of Municipal Corporations? Write about the functions of Municipal
Corporations?
4. Find out how the block level administration is different from the state and the central level
administration. Provide some suitable examples.
5. What are the major challenges at the local level administration? Discuss with your partner how these
challenges can removed and write them in your notebook.



Answer :

Sure, I can help you with that! Here are brief explanations for each of the questions: 1. The significance of local self-government in India lies in decentralization of power and decision-making, allowing for better representation of local issues, effective delivery of services, and fostering grassroots democracy. 2. The main functions of a Gram Panchayat include implementing government schemes at the village level, maintaining basic civic amenities like water supply and sanitation, overseeing local infrastructure development, and promoting rural development initiatives. 3. Municipal Corporations in India are composed of elected representatives called councilors, a mayor or commissioner, and administrative staff. Their functions include urban planning, waste management, public health services, infrastructure development, revenue collection, and overall governance of urban areas. 4. Block level administration operates at an intermediary level between the state and central government, focusing on local governance and service delivery. For example, in India, a Block Development Officer oversees development projects at the block level, distinct from the broader policies set at the state and central levels. 5. Major challenges at the local level administration include inadequate resources, lack of skilled manpower, corruption, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and political interference. These challenges can be addressed by enhancing local capacity building, promoting transparency and accountability, empowering local communities, and strengthening oversight mechanisms to ensure efficient and responsive governance at the grassroots level.