GS2 · Topic
Local Government
Panchayati Raj, urban bodies, devolution of powers and finances.
79 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Local Government that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
The Indian constitution provides a framework for urban governance, but despite various initiatives, significant challenges continue to persist in urban areas. critically analyse
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Local GovernmentFederalism
It is time for reforms, which recognise that urban local bodies (ULBs) need permanent, buoyant revenue sources to match the growing demands of an increasing urban population. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Local Government
The MPLADS scheme goes against the spirit of 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts. Examine.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Local GovernmentFederalism
"The effectiveness of governance at various administrative levels in India is influenced by citizen participation." Discuss how this relationship ensures democratic governance and quality of public service delivery in the Indian context.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Transparency and AccountabilityCitizen Charters and Grievance Redress
Competition between states is becoming a powerful dynamic of change and progress, and that dynamic must extend to competition between states and cities, and between cities. Elaborate.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
FederalismLocal Government
Urban planning is the foundation for an integrated development of cities, citizens, and the environment. In this context, highlight the present issue in urban planning and suggest measures for the augmentation of Urban planning capacity in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Policy Design and ImplementationLocal Government
Convergence between SHGs and panchayats is an assured way of achieving women empowerment. Do you agree?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Local GovernmentWomen and Gender
The implementation of e-Governance in strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) is crucial for democratic decentralization. Discuss.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Local GovernmentE-Governance
Even after three decades of constitutional amendments, India is yet to decentralise power to local self-government institutions in the true sense. Discuss. Do you agree with the view that Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyaan will be able to develop the governance capabilities of the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Local GovernmentWelfare Schemes
Effective devolution of finances is an important requirement for Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to fulfill their objectives. Discuss while also elaborating on the reasons behind lack of financial resources for PRIs in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Local GovernmentFederalism
Alternate Dispute Redressal (ADR) mechanism is essential for a robust justice system. Discuss. Q2. State Finance Commissions are critical for the fiscal health of local self-government institutions. Explain their role and the issues faced by them.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Local GovernmentFederalism
Giving a brief comparative analysis of Fifth and Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, examine major issues that render provisions of both the schedules inefficient and less effective. Do you think that Sixth Schedule must now be replaced with Panchayati Raj Institutions? Justify
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
SC, ST and OBCLocal Government
The extension Act 1996 is a paradigm shifting legislation concerning tribal empowerment and governance, but forest bureaucracy and its minimal interpretation of the law has dented its objective even after 25 years. Comment
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Local GovernmentSC, ST and OBC
Discuss the role of State Finance Commissions in ensuring fiscal autonomy for the local bodies.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Local GovernmentFederalism
Discuss the multiple digitization initiatives that have been unfolding in rural India to improve governance.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
E-GovernanceTransparency and Accountability
The Indian government has made significant strides in promoting good governance at the local level, especially through Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). However, the performance of these institutions is a complex tapestry of successes and criticisms that warrant thorough examination. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Local Government
The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act aimed at decentralisation of urban governance. Despite this, urban local bodies (ULBs) continue to face functional and financial autonomy challenges. Discuss.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Local GovernmentFederalism
Highlight the importance of State Finance Commission in strengthening fiscal federalism in India. Do you agree with the view that they have not been provided with the necessary environment to play their rightful role?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
FederalismLocal Government
The issues of local self-governance are primarily the issues of autonomy, authority, and accountability. Analyze.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Local GovernmentFederalism