A REVIEW OF PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS IN GUJARAT.

This paper based on a literature review focuses on Panchayati Raj Institutions in Gujarat. The paper takes critical stock of how these local institutions have functioned under different acts legislated from time to time in the state. Critically analysing the post 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, it tries to find out, how far this Act has been able to make difference to the lives of ordinary people in terms of bringing-them close to exercising their power at the grassroots level. Further, the paper also looks into other determinants that are crucial to the overall performance of the Panchayati Raj. In a way forward, it explores what possible changes and approaches the state government can adopt towards realising the real objective and spirit underlying a true decentralisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]