Local self-government

Local self-government can be best explained as an exercise in

(a) Federalism

(b) Democratic decentralisation

(c) Administrative delegation

(d) Direct democracy

Solution: B

Option B: Decentralization and grass roots empowerment are the core guiding principles of local self-government.  73rd and 74thconstitutional amendment ushered in the era of democratic decentralization in India. Gram Panchayats can sanction sanitation welfare projects on their own.

Administrative delegation corresponds to executive delegation for the convenience of administration. Local self-government bodies are political entities that are elected directly (or indirectly) by people and managed by their representatives.

Direct democracy involves people's direct involvement in policy and decision making. Tools such as referendum, initiative, recall are used in direct democracy.