PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
A national workshop on “Decentralisation and Devolution in Uttarakhand Post 73rd and 74th: Achievements, Challenges and Strategies for Strengthening Grassroots Governance” organised by Doon University under the aegis of the Sixth State Finance Commission of Uttarakhand saw experts emphasising the need to strengthen local governance in Uttarakhabd.
Sixth State Finance Commission of Uttarakhand chairman N Ravi Shankar explained the processes and functions of the current State Finance Commission, highlighting its role in ensuring equitable financial transfers and support for local governance.
Doon University vice chancellor Surekha Dangwal said that although there has been increased participation and representation, particularly for women and marginalised groups, several challenges persist. She asserted that a workshop like this should pave the way forward, calling for a decentralisation of powers to promote grassroots democracy and improve service delivery by further empowering local bodies.
Former Finance secretary to the Central government Arvind Mayaram stressed the importance of reclaiming the spirit of the amendments aimed at empowering local governance in Uttarakhand. “It has been three decades since the 73rd and 74th Amendments, but democracy cannot be limited to ballot boxes and Parliament. It must reach every lane and village. Empowerment is not merely a function of funds. There is a significant gap between what local bodies are expected to accomplish and what they can actually deliver. The challenge lies not in a lack of responsibility but in the absence of supportive structures,” Mayaram stated.
Former chairman of the Kerala Finance Commission SM Vijayanand discussed various issues and options for the current State finance commission in Uttarakhand. He recommended that officials visit states like Kerala, where decentralisation and devolution have been effectively implemented.
During the second session on “Functional Devolution: Achievements and Challenges,” speakers underscored the urgent need for Uttarakhand to prioritise generating revenue through local sources to ensure fiscal sustainability at the grassroots level.
