September 03rd Current Affairs
Table of Contents
Operation Sindoor
July 21st Current Affairs Home / Operation Sindoor Why in News? Parliament’s Monsoon Session, starting July 21, 2025, is expected to feature
Alaska Earthquakes
July 21st Current Affairs Home / Alaska Earthquakes Why in News? On July 21, 2025, Alaska Peninsula was struck by
August 2, 2027 Solar Eclipse
July 21st Current Affairs Home / August 2, 2027 Solar Eclipse Why in News? A total solar eclipse is set
India’s milestone in clean energy transition
July 21st Current Affairs Home / India’s milestone in clean energy transition Why in News? India achieved a milestone by
‘Baby Grok’, child-friendly AI app
July 21st Current Affairs Home / ‘Baby Grok’, Child-friendly AI app Why in News? Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has announced
Impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Verma
July 22nd Current Affairs Home / Impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Verma Context On July 22, 2025, impeachment proceedings against
Two-day GST Council meeting begins today, next-gen reforms in focus
Relevance to UPSC
- Polity & Governance
- GST Council: a federal body under the 101st Constitutional Amendment.
- Shows Centre–State collaboration in indirect tax policy.
- Important for Prelims (constitutional provisions) & Mains (federal dynamics).
- Economic Policy & Public Finance
- GST reforms involve rate rationalisation & compliance simplification.
- Crucial for public finance management, revenue forecasting, and economic efficiency.
- Directly linked to fiscal federalism and Economy
More About the News
The GST Council, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, held a two-day meeting (Sept 3–4, 2025) to push “next-gen” reforms. Key proposals include moving from the current 4-tier GST structure to a two-slab system (5% and 18%), with a 40% levy on sin and luxury goods. Nearly 175 mass-consumption items—like personal care products, electronics, and hybrid/EVs—may see rate cuts to spur demand. The Council also discussed simplified compliance measures such as pre-filled returns, automated refunds, and fixing inverted duty structures. However, states flagged concerns over revenue shortfalls and sought compensation mechanisms.
GST Council
Evolution
- Recommended by the Kelkar Task Force (2003) on indirect taxes.
- Idea of GST mooted in 2006 Union Budget, finally rolled out on 1 July 2017.
- GST Council established under the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016.
Constitutional Provisions
- Article 279A: Creates the GST Council, chaired by Union Finance Minister.
- Members: Union Finance Minister (Chairperson), Union Minister of State (Finance), and Finance Ministers of all States/UTs with legislatures.
- Decision-making: 3/4th majority vote (Centre – 1/3rd weight, States – 2/3rd weight).
- Article 246A: Special power to legislate on GST.
- Article 269A: GST on inter-State trade collected and apportioned by Union.
Impact
- Unified indirect tax regime, subsuming 17 taxes and 13 cesses.
- Enhanced ease of doing business through “One Nation, One Tax”.
- Boosted formalization of the economy with digital compliance (e-way bills, GSTN).
- Improved tax buoyancy and widened tax base.
- Strengthened cooperative federalism via Centre–State collaboration.
Challenges
- Frequent rate changes create uncertainty.
- Revenue shortfall for states; compensation disputes after 2022.
- Compliance burden for small businesses due to digital filing and documentation.
- Multiple tax slabs undermine simplicity.
- Rising demand for inclusion of petroleum, alcohol, electricity under GST.
- Concerns over Centre–State fiscal imbalance and autonomy.
Measures Taken
- Simplification of return filing and rationalization of rates.
- E-invoicing and IT-based monitoring for reducing evasion.
- Temporary GST compensation cess for states.
- Moves to reduce compliance for MSMEs (composition scheme, QRMP scheme).
- Discussions on further slab rationalization and digital infrastructure upgrades.
Way Forward
- Ensure predictable and stable tax regime.
- Rationalize slabs to move towards two-rate structure.
- Strengthen Centre–State fiscal trust through transparent compensation mechanisms.
- Expand GST coverage to petroleum and electricity gradually.
- Invest in capacity building for small taxpayers and improve grievance redressal.
- Shift towards data-driven tax administration using AI and analytics.
The GST Council stands as a landmark in India’s cooperative federalism, balancing fiscal unity with state autonomy. Going forward, GST must move beyond revenue collection to foster economic resilience, digital governance, and sustainable growth. With rationalized structures, wider sectoral coverage, and stronger Centre–State trust, GST can become a cornerstone of India’s future-ready economy.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements about the GST Council: 1. It is a constitutional body under Article 279A. 2. The Council is chaired by the Finance Minister of India and includes the finance ministers of all states and union territories with legislatures. 3. It can recommend changes only to GST rates but not to exemptions, thresholds, or other regulatory provisions. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. “The GST Council is the backbone of cooperative federalism in India, yet its functioning often raises concerns over state autonomy.” Critically examine this statement with reference to its composition, decision-making powers, and recent reforms.
Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange declares big win, ends hunger strike
Relevance to UPSC
- Federalism & State Policy: Highlights how state governments respond to social demands through resolutions, illustrating center–state dynamics and policy formation at the regional level.
- Social Justice & Reservation Policy: Demonstrates complexities in India’s reservation system, legal constraints (SC/HC rulings), and ongoing debates on inclusion vs. exclusion criteria.
More About the News
Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil ended his five-day hunger strike after the Maharashtra government accepted six of his eight demands, including issuing Kunbi caste certificates to eligible Marathas under the OBC category through a government resolution based on the Hyderabad Gazette.The state also promised village-level verification committees, withdrawal of cases against protesters, compensation and jobs for families of victims, and faster certificate processing.However, several OBC leaders opposed the move, warning it could dilute their existing quota by indirectly extending benefits to Marathas.
Reservation System in India:
Evolution
- Pre-Independence: British era introduced communal representation (Morley–Minto Reforms, 1909; Poona Pact, 1932).
- Constituent Assembly: Provided reservations for SCs/STs in legislatures, services, and education for 10 years (later extended).
- Post-Independence: Extended to OBCs after Mandal Commission (1990).
- Recent addition: 10% EWS quota (103rd Constitutional Amendment, 2019).
Constitutional Provisions
- Articles 15(4), 15(5): Special provisions for socially/economically backward classes in education.
- Article 16(4), 16(4A), 16(6): Reservation in public employment, including promotions.
- Articles 330–342: Political reservation for SCs/STs in legislatures.
- 103rd Amendment (2019): EWS reservation in education & employment.
Judicial Interpretations
- Indra Sawhney (1992): Upheld 27% OBC quota, capped total reservations at 50%, excluded creamy layer.
- M. Nagaraj (2006): Conditions for SC/ST reservation in promotions.
- Janhit Abhiyan v. Union (2022): Upheld EWS quota, clarified 50% cap not rigid.
- Courts emphasized social justice vs. equality of opportunity balance.
Impacts
- Empowerment of SCs, STs, and OBCs in education, jobs, and politics.
- Enhanced political representation of marginalized groups.
- Helped reduce historical exclusion, though uneven across regions.
- Rising middle-class among reserved categories (due to access to opportunities).
Challenges
- Perpetuation of caste identities in politics and society.
- Demands for inclusion/exclusion create reservation politics.
- Backwardness criteria often politicized rather than objective.
- Inequitable benefits within groups (dominant sub-castes corner benefits).
- Concerns of merit vs. social justice and efficiency in administration.
- Legal ambiguity on breaching the 50% ceiling.
Way Forward
- Adopt periodic socio-economic surveys to assess backwardness.
- Rationalize benefits to ensure intra-group equity (target the most deprived).
- Move towards economic + social indicators instead of only caste-based criteria.
- Strengthen education, skilling, and affirmative action beyond quotas.
- Foster a shift from caste-based to need-based support in the long run.
The reservation system has been vital in correcting historical injustices, but its sustainability lies in evolving from caste-centric quotas to inclusive, need-based empowerment. By ensuring equitable distribution within communities and integrating social justice with economic opportunity, India can build a system that promotes both fairness and future readiness.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the reservation system in India: 1. Articles 15(4) and 16(4) of the Constitution empower the State to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes. 2. The 103rd Constitutional Amendment allows for reservation in private sector jobs. 3. The Supreme Court has capped total reservations (including OBCs, SCs, and STs) at 50%, with limited exceptions. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. “While reservations have helped in social justice, they have also led to socio-political and economic debates in India.” Critically examine the effectiveness of the reservation system, its limitations, and suggest reforms to balance equity and merit.
River water enters homes as Yamuna rises above danger mark in Delhi
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II – Governance & Disaster Management
- Flood response measures: evacuation, relief camps, control rooms, emergency readiness.
- Coordination among NDMC, Delhi govt, flood control bodies, and police in crisis management.
GS Paper I – Geography & Environment
- Flooding due to heavy monsoon and upstream barrage discharge (Hathnikund, Wazirabad).
- Vulnerability of urban floodplains: poor drainage, encroachments, and planning gaps.
GS Paper III – Infrastructure & Resilience
- Structural measures: sump construction, drainage upgrades, flood-mitigation infrastructure.
- Climate resilience: repeated floods show need for long-term urban planning and adaptation.
More About the News
Delhi faced severe flooding as the Yamuna River surged past the danger mark on September 2, 2025. Water entered homes in low-lying Trans-Yamuna areas, prompting evacuations, bridge closures, and emergency responses by authorities.
Urban Flooding
Urban flooding has emerged as a recurring disaster in Indian cities, triggered by heavy rainfall, poor drainage, and unregulated urbanization. It disrupts daily life, damages infrastructure, and poses serious risks to health and economy. As climate change intensifies extreme weather events, urban floods have become a pressing governance and resilience challenge.
Impacts
- Humanitarian: Loss of lives, displacement, and health hazards due to waterborne diseases.
- Economic: Damage to infrastructure, property, businesses, and urban productivity.
- Environmental: Degradation of wetlands, water contamination, and ecosystem loss.
- Governance: Strain on civic bodies, emergency response, and law & order.
Challenges in Handling Urban Flooding
- Encroachment on lakes, wetlands, and floodplains.
- Outdated and inadequate drainage/sewage infrastructure.
- Poor coordination among municipal agencies, state, and central authorities.
- Lack of real-time urban flood forecasting and early warning systems.
- High population density and unplanned growth in vulnerable zones.
- Insufficient awareness and community preparedness.
Measures Taken
- NDMA Guidelines (2010) on urban flooding management.
- Smart Cities Mission integrating stormwater management.
- Construction of high-capacity sumps, pumping stations, and desilting drives in metros.
- Efforts to restore urban lakes and wetlands (e.g., Hyderabad, Bengaluru).
- Use of GIS mapping and Doppler radar for real-time rainfall monitoring.
Best Practices
- Chennai: Micro-drainage projects, integration of stormwater drains with waterways.
- Mumbai: BRIMSTOWAD project to upgrade drainage capacity.
- Singapore: ABC Waters programme – integrates blue-green infrastructure.
- Netherlands: “Room for the River” approach to expand floodplains.
Way Forward
- Strict urban planning and zoning laws to protect wetlands and floodplains.
- Investment in resilient infrastructure with climate adaptation focus.
- Strengthen early warning systems and community-based disaster preparedness.
- Promote blue-green infrastructure (rainwater harvesting, permeable pavements, urban forests).
- Enhance inter-agency coordination and integrated flood management at city level.
Urban flooding demands a paradigm shift from reactive relief measures to proactive resilience planning. By combining scientific forecasting, sustainable infrastructure, and community participation, Indian cities can transform flood risks into opportunities for climate-resilient and inclusive urban development.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding urban flooding in India:
1. Urban flooding occurs primarily due to excessive rainfall and poor drainage in cities.
2. Encroachment on natural water bodies and wetlands does not significantly impact urban flooding.
3. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued guidelines for urban flood risk management.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. “Rapid urbanization has intensified the risk of urban flooding in Indian cities.” Examine the causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies, and suggest sustainable measures to manage urban flood risks.
Singapore PM arrives on 3-day India visit, focus on boosting economic ties
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II – International Relations
- Strengthens the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership under India’s Act East Policy.
- Showcases high-level diplomacy for stronger Southeast Asia ties.
Focus on green energy, aviation, space reflects future-oriented cooperation.
GS Paper III – Economy, Infrastructure & Technology
- Joint investments: Nhava Sheva terminal, potential green hydrogen undersea cable.
- Cooperation in digitalization, skills, and space aligns with India’s tech ambitions.
More about the News
Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong began his three-day official visit to India on September 2, 2025, marking his first trip as PM and the 60th anniversary of India–Singapore ties. He will hold talks with PM Narendra Modi, meet President Droupadi Murmu, and visit Rajghat. Key areas of cooperation include green energy, shipping, aviation, space, digitalization, and connectivity, with projects like the Nhava Sheva terminal and plans for green hydrogen exports via undersea cable on the agenda.
India - Singapore Relations
India and Singapore share a long history of cultural and commercial ties, evolving into a strong modern partnership rooted in mutual trust and strategic cooperation. As a key ASEAN member, Singapore plays a pivotal role in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision. The relationship spans defense, trade, technology, and people-to-people exchanges.
Evolution of Ties
- 1965: India among the first countries to recognize Singapore’s independence.
- 1970s–80s: Engagement through NAM, Commonwealth, and trade links.
- 1990s: Economic reforms in India deepened ties; Singapore emerged as an early investor.
- 2005: Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) signed.
- 2015: Upgraded to Strategic Partnership.
- 2018: Elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership; strong defense and maritime cooperation.
- 2025: 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties, with focus on green energy, digitalization, and connectivity.
Strengths in the Relationship
- Economic: Singapore is India’s largest FDI source among ASEAN nations.
- Strategic: Shared vision for a free, open, rules-based Indo-Pacific.
- Defense: Joint exercises like SIMBEX; logistical cooperation agreements.
- Technology: Cooperation in fintech, AI, cybersecurity, digital skilling.
- Diaspora: 6–7 lakh strong Indian community in Singapore fosters cultural connect.
- Education: Collaboration in higher education, skills, and research.
Weaknesses in the Relationship
- Dependence on few sectors (real estate, finance) for FDI.
- Relatively low bilateral trade volume compared to India’s major partners.
- Limited cooperation in agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing.
- Public perception gap – relations seen as elite-driven rather than mass-focused.
Challenges in the Relationship
- Geopolitical pressures from China’s influence in ASEAN.
- Differences on labour mobility and CECA implementation.
- Competition from other ASEAN states in attracting Indian investments.
- Need to balance US-China rivalry in Indo-Pacific without straining ties.
How Challenges Are Countered
- Upgrading CECA provisions to address market access and labor concerns.
- Strengthening defense & maritime ties to counterbalance China’s assertiveness.
- Diversifying cooperation into green energy, space, digital economy.
- Leveraging diaspora diplomacy to enhance people-to-people trust.
- Regular high-level visits and strategic dialogues to sustain momentum.
Way Forward
- Expand trade and investment beyond traditional sectors to manufacturing and startups.
- Collaborate on climate resilience, green hydrogen, and sustainable urban planning.
- Deepen maritime security cooperation in Indo-Pacific architecture.
- Enhance connectivity – air, digital, and port-led logistics (e.g., Nhava Sheva terminal).
- Promote skill partnerships and education exchanges for future-ready workforce.
- Institutionalize triangular cooperation (India–Singapore–ASEAN/Africa).
India–Singapore ties are a cornerstone of India’s engagement with Southeast Asia, symbolizing trust, innovation, and shared prosperity. Looking ahead, their partnership must pivot toward green growth, digital leadership, and Indo-Pacific stability. This will transform the relationship into a model of future-oriented, resilient diplomacy in Asia.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding India–Singapore relations:
1. Singapore was one of the first countries to sign a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) with India.
2. India and Singapore are part of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and engage in regular security dialogues.
3. India and Singapore share a maritime boundary in the Strait of Malacca.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. “India–Singapore relations reflect a blend of economic pragmatism and strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.” Critically examine the evolution, strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and future trajectory of bilateral ties.
Five city corporations, 10 zones formed as Greater Bengaluru Authority takes charge
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II – Governance & Urban Affairs
- Showcases administrative restructuring to improve urban governance through decentralization.
- Establishment of Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) as an apex body supervising five corporations reflects institutional reform.
- Demonstrates a model of multi-tier governance in metropolitan cities.
GS Paper I – Polity & Constitutional Framework
- Tests alignment with the 74th Constitutional Amendment on local bodies and autonomy.
- Raises concerns on representation, ward/area sabhas, and public accountability under the new system
More about the News
On September 2, 2025, the Karnataka government formally replaced the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) with the newly established Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), dividing Bengaluru into five municipal corporations—Central, East, West, South, and North—to enhance urban governance and service delivery.
Urban Local Governance in India
India’s cities are now growth engines and frontline service providers, but governance has lagged rapid urbanisation. The 74th Constitutional Amendment sought to democratise city halls, devolving functions, funds and functionaries to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). Yet, outcomes vary widely across states due to design gaps, capacity deficits and continued state control.
Evolution of Urban Local Governance in India
- Colonial era: 1687 Madras Municipal Corporation; 1882 Ripon’s Resolution; 1919 & 1935 Government of India Acts gave provinces charge but with weak autonomy.
- Post-Independence (1947–80s): State-controlled municipal bodies, limited powers; rise of parastatals fragmenting urban functions.
- 1988: National Commission on Urbanisation highlighted governance & finance gaps, sought empowered ULBs.
- 1992–93: 74th CAA gave constitutional status to ULBs with 12th Schedule, SFCs, and planning committees.
- 2000s–present: JNNURM, AMRUT, Smart Cities, SBM-U, PMAY-U, Finance Commission grants, municipal bonds, and digital governance with new focus on climate resilience.
Constitutional Provisions on Urban Local Governance
- Part IX-A (Arts. 243P–243ZG): Establishes ULBs—Municipal Corporations, Councils, and Nagar Panchayats.
- 12th Schedule (18 functions): Assigns urban planning, water supply, sanitation, SWM, health, fire services, urban forestry, slum improvement, poverty alleviation, roads, lighting, markets, parking, etc.
- Art. 243R/T: Provides for elected representation; ≥1/3 reservation for women (many states raised to 50%), and proportionate SC/ST reservation.
- Art. 243W: Empowers states to devolve powers, functions, and responsibilities to ULBs.
- Art. 243Y: Mandates a State Finance Commission every 5 years for fiscal devolution.
- Art. 243ZD/ZE: Establishes District and Metropolitan Planning Committees for integrated planning.
- Art. 243U: Fixes ULB tenure at 5 years with regular elections by SECs.
- Art. 243ZF/G: Ensures continuity of existing laws subject to conformity and bars judicial review of delimitation/elections.
Impacts
- Democratisation: Regular ULB elections; enhanced representation of women & SC/ST in urban politics.
- Service delivery focus: Formal assignment (on paper) of 12th Schedule functions, enabling accountability and benchmarking.
- Fiscal transfers: Dedicated FC grants (14th/15th FC) stabilised predictable support to ULBs, nudging reforms (accounts, property tax floor rates).
- Innovation & competition: City rankings (Swachh Survekshan, Ease of Living) spurred peer learning and visible improvements in sanitation and public spaces in several cities.
- Financial market access: Renewed municipal bond issuances (e.g., Pune, Ahmedabad, Indore) with credit enhancements.
Impacts
- Democratisation: Regular ULB elections; enhanced representation of women & SC/ST in urban politics.
- Service delivery focus: Formal assignment (on paper) of 12th Schedule functions, enabling accountability and benchmarking.
- Fiscal transfers: Dedicated FC grants (14th/15th FC) stabilised predictable support to ULBs, nudging reforms (accounts, property tax floor rates).
- Innovation & competition: City rankings (Swachh Survekshan, Ease of Living) spurred peer learning and visible improvements in sanitation and public spaces in several cities.
- Financial market access: Renewed municipal bond issuances (e.g., Pune, Ahmedabad, Indore) with credit enhancements.
Persistent Challenges
- Incomplete devolution of the 3Fs: Many 12th Schedule functions still handled by parastatals (water, transport, planning), weakening mayor/ULB accountability.
- Weak mayor–commissioner system: Short tenures, limited executive authority; state control via municipal statutes.
- Fiscal fragility: Low own-source revenues (property tax base/coverage/valuation gaps; user charges under-recovery); irregular SFCs and delayed implementation.
- Capacity constraints: Thin urban cadres, vacancies, limited planning, procurement, and O&M skills; data deficits.
- Urban planning deficits: Outdated Master Plans, poor enforcement; sprawl, informality, and climate vulnerability (heat, floods).
- Accountability gaps: MPCs/DPCs often non-functional; fragmented mandates & overlap with development authorities.
- Compliance & inclusion: Slum tenure insecurity; uneven implementation of Street Vendors Act; limited participatory budgeting beyond pilots.
Measures Taken
- 74th CAA implementation via State Municipal Acts; reservations; SEC-conducted elections.
- Finance Commission grants: 14th & 15th FC: basic/tied grants for water-sanitation, conditions on audited accounts, property-tax reforms, and user charges.
- Reform-linked funding: JNNURM (2005–12)—UIDSSMT/BSUP; conditionalities on e-governance, accounting, property tax, user charges.
- Mission mode: AMRUT (2015–, 2.0 from 2021), Smart Cities Mission (2015–), SBM-Urban (1.0/2.0), PMAY-U, DAY-NULM, National Urban Digital Mission (2021), Pooled Finance Development Fund, Atal Mission reforms (water metering, septage/FSM).
- Financial deepening: Municipal bond guidelines, credit rating of ULBs; PPP frameworks; viability gap funding.
- Legal/social inclusion: Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014; Town Vending Committees; notified vending zones.
- e-Governance: Double-entry accrual accounting (DEAS), online building permits (OBPS), GIS property mapping, grievance apps, dashboards.
Best Practices
- Municipal Finance
- Pune & Ahmedabad municipal bonds; Indore repeated issuances and high credit ratings.
- GIS-based property tax (e.g., Bhubaneswar/Indore/Surat) improving coverage & buoyancy.
- Sanitation & Waste
- Indore: multi-year leadership in Swachh Survekshan via door-to-door collection, segregation, user fees, and MIS.
- Alappuzha: decentralised waste management & community composting.
- Warangal/Tiruchirappalli: Faecal Sludge & Septage Management (FSSM) + treatment plants.
- Planning & Participation
- Bhubaneswar: Smart City SPV with integrated mobility & public space projects.
- Pune/Mumbai: Participatory budgeting at ward level (long-running pilots).
- Surat: Post-1994 public health reforms—vector control, data-driven epidemic management.
- Digital Governance
- Online building permissions (OBPS) with time-bound approvals; unified service apps for payments, grievances, permits in multiple cities.
- Online building permissions (OBPS) with time-bound approvals; unified service apps for payments, grievances, permits in multiple cities.
- Climate & Resilience
- Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan (early warning, inter-agency coordination); Pune Urban Forestry, Chennai flood mitigation via storm-water upgrades and lake restoration (ongoing).
2nd ARC’s recommendations on Urban Local Governance (Way Forward)
- Full 3F devolution to ULBs as mandated by the 74th CAA. (3F– Fund, Functions & Functionaries)
- Directly elected, empowered Mayors with fixed tenure and executive authority.
- Clear role separation: Mayors for policy, Commissioners for administration.
- Strengthen SFCs for timely awards and assured fiscal transfers.
- Enhance municipal revenues via property tax reforms, user charges, bonds, and PPPs.
- Create a professional Municipal Cadre with training and career pathways.
- Activate MPCs/DPCs for coordinated spatial and economic planning.
- Institutionalise citizen participation through ward committees, area sabhas, and participatory budgeting.
- Boost capacity with IT/e-governance, double-entry accounting, and regular audits.
- Ensure transparency via citizen charters, e-procurement, social audits, and grievance systems.
- Adopt service benchmarks for water, sanitation, SWM, and public health.
India’s urban future will be decided by how quickly ULBs become empowered, credit-worthy and citizen-centric institutions. Completing the 3F devolution, professionalising cadres and mainstreaming digital, climate-resilient planning can unlock inclusive growth and liveable cities. With sustained political will and rule-bound finance, Indian municipalities can graduate from project implementers to true governments of the city.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding Urban Local Governance in India:
1. The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) provided constitutional status to urban local bodies.
2. Nagar Panchayats, Municipal Councils, and Municipal Corporations are forms of urban local bodies recognized under the Constitution.
3. The Constitution mandates direct elections for the Chairpersons of all urban local bodies.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. “Urban Local Governance in India has evolved to empower cities, yet challenges of autonomy, financial sustainability, and citizen participation persist.” Critically analyze the evolution, structure, functions, and challenges of urban local bodies in India, and suggest reforms to strengthen urban governance.
