question_answer

  What amendments were made by the constitution to make a third tier (local government) more powerful and effective?

Answer:

                  A major step towards decentralization was taken in 1992. The constitution has amended to make the third tier more powerful and effective. (i) Now it is mandatory to hold regular elections for local government bodies. (ii) Seats are reserved for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other backward classes. (iii) At least one-third of all positions are reserved for women. (iv) The State Election Commission monitors the elections of municipalities and local governments of a state. (v) The State governments are required to share some powers and revenue with local government's bodies.