Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

Before 1992, decentralisation was ineffective because:

1. No constitutional status: Local bodies like panchayats and municipalities were directly under the control of state governments, with no independent powers of their own.
2. Irregular elections: Elections to these local governments were not held regularly.
3. No resources: Local governments did not have financial resources of their own, making them dependent on the state government.

Without powers, regular elections, or funds, these bodies could not function as true self-governing institutions.

Source: Decentralisation in India, Chapter 2

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The examiner wants three distinct reasons, each clearly stated — matching the 3 marks. The key contrast to highlight is before vs. after 1992: before 1992, local bodies existed but lacked constitutional backing, regular elections, and independent resources. These are the three points directly from the textbook paragraph on decentralisation. Avoid writing about post-1992 reforms unless specifically asked — that would waste time and space.