73rd & 74th Amendments Strengthen Local Governance in India
Politics · 31 Oct 2026 · Source: Internet
The 73rd and 74th constitutional amendments of 1992 gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies, enhancing grassroots democracy.
The 73rd Amendment introduced a three‑tier system of Panchayati Raj (village, block and district) and mandated regular elections, reservation for women (one‑third) and SC/STs, and powers over local development programmes.
The 74th Amendment mirrored these provisions for Municipalities, ensuring elected councils, financial devolution and functional responsibilities for urban planning, water supply and sanitation.
Together they institutionalised decentralisation, making local bodies accountable and a frequent topic in UPSC and SSC General Studies papers.