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Municipalities in India from "summary" of Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
Municipalities in India are institutions of local self-government that play a crucial role in the democratic setup of the country. They are established under the provisions of the Constitution of India, which lays down the framework for their organization and functioning. The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 brought about significant changes in the structure of municipalities, empowering them with greater responsibilities and powers to ensure effective urban governance. There are three types of municipalities in India - Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils, and Nagar Panchayats. Municipal Corporations are established in large cities, Municipal Councils in smaller towns, and Nagar Panchayats in areas transitioning from rural to urban. Each municipality is headed by a Mayor (in the case of Municipal Corporations) or a Chairperson (in the case of Municipal Councils and Nagar Panchayats), who is elected by the members of the municipality. Municipalities in India have been entrusted with a wide range of functions, including urban planning, regulation of land use, provision of basic amenities such as water supply, sanitation, and solid waste management, and maintenance of public infrastructure like roads, parks, and street lighting. They also have the responsibility of levying and collecting taxes, fees, and charges for the services they provide. The Constitution provides for the constitution of State Finance Commissions to recommend the principles governing the distribution of financial resources between the state government and municipalities. This ensures that municipalities have adequate funds to carry out their functions effectively. Additionally, the Constitution mandates the formation of District Planning Committees to consolidate the plans prepared by municipalities and panchayats in the district. The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act also mandates the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women in municipalities to ensure their adequate representation in decision-making processes. This has been a significant step towards promoting social justice and inclusivity in local governance. Municipalities in India are expected to work towards the welfare and development of all sections of society, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender.- Municipalities in India are vital institutions of local self-government that play a crucial role in urban governance and development. The provisions of the Constitution and the 74th Amendment Act have empowered municipalities with the necessary tools to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. It is essential for municipalities to work in coordination with other tiers of government and stakeholders to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth in urban areas.
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