Describe the achievements of the new system of local governments. Also mention the problems that are being faced by these bodies.

(a) Achievements: It is the largest experiment in a democracy conducted anywhere in the world. Its main achievements are as follows:
(l) There are now about 36 lakh elected representatives in the panchayats and municipalities etc. all over the country.
(ii) Constitutional status for local government has helped to strengthen democracy in the country.
(iii) There is now uniformity in local bodies across the country.
(iv) There is a significant number of women in the local bodies.
(b) Problems: There are problems too which are as follows:
(i) Elections are held regularly but not for gram sabhas.
(ii) Many State governments have not transferred powers to the local governments.
(iii) Adequate resources have not been given to them. Thus, there is still a long way to achieve the ideal of local government.