Gram Swaraj and the Challenge of Real Decentralisation in India

Source: The post “Gram Swaraj and the Challenge of Real Decentralisation in India” has been created, based on “Explained: Gandhi’s ideal of Gram Swaraj, and why true devolution of power to villages has yet to happen” published in “Indian Express” on 31st January 2026.

UPSC Syllabus: GS Paper-2-Governance

Context: Mahatma Gandhi envisioned Gram Swaraj as a system in which villages would become self-governed, self-reliant, and economically independent units. He believed that true democracy and national development could be achieved only by empowering rural communities.

Gandhi’s Concept of Gram Swaraj

1. Gandhi believed that villages should function as complete republics, managing their own social, economic, and political affairs.
2. He emphasized self-reliance in food production, clothing, and basic necessities.
3. He supported decentralised governance through democratically elected Panchayats.
4. He stressed the importance of equality, non-violence, and social harmony in village life.
5. He promoted a balance between independence and interdependence among villages.
6. He focused on holistic development, including moral, social, and economic progress.

Why True Devolution Has Not Happened

1. Urban-Centric Development Model: Post-Independence development policies focused mainly on cities and industries, which led to the neglect of rural areas.
2. Weak Implementation of Decentralisation: Although the 73rd Constitutional Amendment strengthened Panchayati Raj institutions, real powers remain concentrated with state governments and bureaucracies.
3. Lack of Basic Infrastructure: Many villages still lack quality education, healthcare, digital connectivity, and skill development facilities, which limits their growth.
4. Limited Rural Entrepreneurship: Rural enterprises have not received adequate financial and policy support, resulting in limited employment opportunities.
5. Social and Structural Issues: Caste-based discrimination, gender inequality, and social divisions continue to restrict inclusive development.
6. Political Reluctance: Higher levels of government often hesitate to transfer financial, administrative, and political authority to local bodies.
7. Dependence on Welfare Schemes: Schemes like MGNREGA provide short-term relief but do not always promote long-term self-sufficiency.

Way Forward

1. The government should ensure genuine financial, administrative, and political devolution to Panchayati Raj institutions.
2. Capacity building and training of local representatives should be strengthened for effective governance.
3. Investment in quality education, healthcare, digital infrastructure, and skill development must be prioritised.
4. Rural entrepreneurship and MSMEs should be promoted through credit support, market access, and innovation hubs.
5. Social inclusion must be ensured through awareness programs and community participation.
6. Monitoring and accountability mechanisms should be strengthened to improve local governance.
7. Successful models of village development should be replicated across regions.

Conclusion: Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swaraj aimed at creating self-sufficient, empowered, and democratic villages. However, structural weaknesses, inadequate decentralisation, and social challenges have hindered its realization. With strong political will, institutional reforms, and community participation, India can move closer to achieving true Gram Swaraj and balanced national development.

Question: Explain Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of Gram Swaraj. Why has true devolution of power to villages not been achieved in India even after Independence? Suggest a way forward.

Source: Indian express