Evolution of Political Decentralisation in India: An Overview of Panchayats

Abstract

The present study is an overview of historical developments with regard to political decentralization and Panchayat autonomy in India. The paper argues that however, the conception of political decentralization formally introduced by British regime in late 19^th century, it is the institution of Panchayatthat enjoyed autonomy in various socio-economic formsin rural polity of India. Despite the fact that the institution faced serious challenges from different regimes with the passage of time but still due to its legitimacy and usefulness it established itself as popular instrument of democracy in rural polity.