Q1. [4]
This new system of local government is the largest experiment in democracy conducted anywhere in the world. There are now about 36 lakh elected representatives in the panchayats and municipalities etc., all over the country. This number is bigger then the population of many countries in the world. Constitutional status for local government has helped to deepen democracy in our country. It has also increased women's representation and voice in our democracy. At the same time, there are many difficulties. While elections are held regularly of Panchayats and people participate enthusiastically in it but meetings of gram sabhas are not held regularly.
Read the given source and answer the questions that follow :
- (36.1) Why is Indian decentralisation considered as the largest experiment in democracy ? [1]
- (36.2) Analyse how constitutional status for local government has helped to deepen democracy in India ? [1]
- (36.3) Explain any two steps taken by the Indian Government for decentralisation. [2]
Previously asked in CBSE board exam
2023 32/6/1 Q36
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-15 07:00 · grounding stimulus
Model Answer
(36.1) India's decentralisation is considered the largest experiment in democracy because it has about 36 lakh elected representatives in panchayats and municipalities — a number bigger than the population of many countries in the world.
(36.2) Constitutional status gave local government legal recognition and legitimacy, which deepened democracy by ensuring regular elections, enthusiastic public participation, and increased women's representation and voice in governance across the country.
(36.3) Two steps taken for decentralisation:
- 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments (1992): Made elections to panchayats and municipalities mandatory and gave them constitutional status.
- Reservation of seats: One-third seats reserved for women in local bodies, ensuring their political participation and representation.
Source: Chapter 2 – Federalism, Democratic Politics (Political Science)
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Explanation
- (36.1) is directly from the passage — quote the "36 lakh" figure and the comparison to other countries' populations.
- (36.2) also comes from the passage (constitutional status + women's representation). One crisp sentence is enough for 1 mark.
- (36.3) goes beyond the passage (textbook knowledge required). Examiners expect the 73rd/74th Amendments and reservation for women/weaker sections as the standard two points. Write each as a labelled point with a brief explanation.
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