The Devolution Index (DI) ranking evaluates how well States delegate powers and responsibilities to Panchayati Raj institutions. This assessment relies on six primary criteria: framework, functions, functionaries, finances, capacity building, and accountability. The Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj is responsible for this evaluation.
In the 2024 rankings, Karnataka has emerged as the leader, achieving an impressive overall index score of 72.23. It is closely followed by Kerala with 70.59 and Tamil Nadu with 68.38.
The six essential criteria used for the Devolution Index ranking are:
Karnataka has excelled in all areas and has topped two specific sub-indices:
In individual criteria, the performance is as follows:
Accountability is vital in the Panchayati Raj system as it promotes transparency, social audits, grievance redressal, and financial oversight. Karnataka's high ranking in this category indicates robust mechanisms for monitoring Panchayat operations.
Karnataka's effective Panchayati Raj system contributes to improved local governance, participatory democracy, and sustainable rural development. By delegating financial and administrative powers to Gram Panchayats, it enhances self-governance.
States such as Bihar (58.26), Assam, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand have recorded lower scores in the Devolution Index.
This ranking sheds light on the strengths and weaknesses of various States' Panchayati Raj systems, guiding policymakers to concentrate on areas needing enhancement, particularly in financial devolution and accountability mechanisms.
The Devolution Index serves as a critical instrument for assessing the effectiveness of Panchayati Raj institutions in India. Karnataka's leadership symbolizes its dedication to decentralization, financial autonomy, and accountability in rural governance. Strong Panchayati Raj institutions are essential for fostering inclusive development, transparency, and grassroots democracy, offering a model for other States to emulate.
Q1. What is the Devolution Index ranking?
Answer: The Devolution Index ranking assesses how effectively States transfer powers to Panchayati Raj institutions, using criteria like framework, functions, and accountability.
Q2. Which State topped the Devolution Index in 2024?
Answer: Karnataka achieved the top position in the 2024 Devolution Index, scoring 72.23, followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Q3. Why is accountability crucial in the Panchayati Raj system?
Answer: Accountability ensures transparency and effective governance, enabling social audits and grievance redressal, which is vital for public trust.
Q4. How does Karnataka's performance impact rural governance?
Answer: Karnataka's strong Panchayati Raj system enhances local governance and promotes participatory democracy, improving rural development.
Q5. What are the lowest-scoring States in the Devolution Index?
Answer: Bihar, Assam, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand received the lowest scores in the Devolution Index, indicating areas needing improvement.
Question 1: Which state topped the Devolution Index in 2024?
A) Kerala
B) Tamil Nadu
C) Karnataka
D) Gujarat
Correct Answer: C
Question 2: What does the Devolution Index measure?
A) Economic performance of states
B) Effectiveness of Panchayati Raj institutions
C) Urban development
D) Education quality
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which criterion did Karnataka score highest in?
A) Framework
B) Finances
C) Functionaries
D) Capacity Building
Correct Answer: B
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