Decentralisation, Service Delivery, and People's Perspectives: Empirical Observations on Selected Social Protection Programs in India

Abstract

Decentralised governance is generally believed to facilitate pro-poor economic development. The process may however be captured by elite and become counterproductive if implemented without acknowledging the disparities in asset-ownerships and entitlements, strengthening accountability mechanisms, and building capacities at various levels. This paper evaluates delivery of various social protection programmes in two Indian states following different decentralisation mechanisms. Drawing on our empirical observations and research we argue that village panchayats need to incorporate mechanisms to enhance participation of the poor, and the women, in its institutions. This may enhance accountability and transparency in the functioning of panchayats and may make them more relevant to the deprived population.

Keywords:

• decentralisation
• social protection
• self help groups
• India
• elite capture

Notes

¹The castes and tribes included for “special provisions relating to certain classes” in part XVI of the Constitution of India due to their social and economic backwardness (Ministry of Law and Justice, 2008: 200 –211).

²The subsidized housing scheme for rural areas.

³The scheme promoting self-employment in rural areas.