Meaning of Local Self-government 50 MCQs

Meaning of Local Self-Government

Canva

Local self-government refers to a system of governance where certain administrative powers and decision-making authority are delegated by the central government to local or regional authorities. It is a form of decentralized governance that aims to bring governance closer to the people and enable them to participate in decision-making processes that directly affect their communities.

The concept of local self-government emphasizes the idea that local communities and their residents are best suited to understand and address their unique needs and challenges. By empowering local authorities, such as municipalities, town councils or village councils, with responsibility for making decisions and managing local affairs, local self-government seeks to ensure that policies and services are tailored to the specific needs of a particular area or community.

The scope of local self-government can vary between countries and regions, but typically includes areas such as urban planning, local infrastructure development, public transportation, education, health care, local taxation, and local economic development. Local self-government often consists of elected representatives who serve on local councils or boards and make decisions on behalf of the members of the community they represent.

The underlying principles of local self-government include subsidiarity, which advocates that decisions should be made at the lowest possible level, and autonomy, which emphasizes the independence and self-determination of local authorities within the framework of national laws and regulations.

Overall, local self-government aims to promote citizen participation, foster community development, and increase accountability and accountability in governance by empowering local communities to take responsibility for their own affairs.

MCQs on Local Self-Government

Here are most important multiple choice questions, their answers and explanations related to the concept of local self-government. Most expected MCQs for all types of exams:

Question 1. What is the main objective of local self-government?

a) centralizing the decision making powerb) Empowering local communities and residentsc) abolition of local officialsd) Increasing bureaucracy at the local level

Answer: B) Empowering local communities and residents

Explanation: The main objective of local self-government is to empower local communities and residents by delegating administrative powers and decision-making authority to local authorities. It aims to bring governance closer to the people and enable them to participate in decisions that directly affect their communities.

Question 2. Which of the following is an example of a local self government body?

A) National ParliamentB) State Governmentc) City Councild) Federal Court

Answer: C) City Council

Explanation: Municipal Council is an example of a local self-government body. It is a representative body elected by the residents of a city or municipality to make decisions and manage local affairs such as urban planning, local infrastructure development and public services.

Question 3. What are the underlying principles of local self-government?

A) centralization and bureaucracyB) Subsidiarity and Autonomyc) Nationalism and Globalizationd) hierarchical rules and uniformity

Answer: B) Subsidiarity and Autonomy

Explanation: The basic principles of local self-government are subsidiarity and autonomy. Subsidiarity advocates that decisions should be made at the lowest level possible, while ensuring that local communities have the authority to address their specific needs. Autonomy emphasizes the independence and self-determination of local authorities within the framework of national laws and regulations. These principles promote decentralized decision making and community participation in governance.

Question 4. Which of the following areas are generally managed by local self-government bodies?

a) National Defense and SecurityB) Foreign Policy and International Relationsc) Education and Healthcared) Monetary Policy and Currency Regulation

Answer: C) Education and Healthcare

Explanation: Local self-government bodies usually manage sectors such as education and health care at the local level. They play a role in the administration and provision of local schools, hospitals, clinics and other related services to meet the specific needs of the local community.

Question 5. Who mainly has the power to take decisions in local self-government:

A) Central Governmentb) regional governmentc) local authorityd) Non-Governmental Organization (NGO)

Answer: C) Local Officer

Explanation: In local self-government, the decision-making authority rests primarily with the local authorities. These authorities, such as municipalities or town councils, are elected or appointed representatives who make decisions on behalf of the local community they serve.

Question 6. Which of the following is the main advantage of local self-government?

a) centralized control and uniformityb) limited civil partnershipc) Policies tailored to local needsd) Lack of accountability and transparency

Answer: C) Policies tailored to local needs

Explanation: A major advantage of local self-government is the ability to create customized policies that address the specific needs and challenges of the local community. Local authorities have a better understanding of the local context and can design policies and services that meet the specific characteristics and needs of their area or municipality.

Question 7. Which of the following is a common form of local self-government in many countries?

a) Village ParliamentB) provincial monarchyc) regional dictatorshipd) County Council

Answer: D) County Council

Explanation: County councils are a common form of local government in many countries. They are elected bodies that represent and govern a specific county or administrative division within a country. County councils generally have responsibilities in areas such as local infrastructure, public services and regional development.

Question 8. What is the role of citizen participation in local self-government?

a) Citizen participation in local self-government is not encouraged.b) Participation of citizens is limited to voting only in local elections.c) Citizen participation enables active participation in decision making processes.d) Citizen participation is completely focused on national level matters.

Answer: c) Citizen participation enables active participation in decision making processes.

Explanation: Citizen participation plays an important role in local self-governance. It enables individuals and communities to be actively involved in decision-making processes, to voice their concerns and to contribute to the development and governance of their local area. This can take various forms, including public consultation, community meetings and involvement in local planning and policing.

Question 9. Which of the following is an example of a local self-government revenue source?

a) National grants and fundingb) International charityc) personal income taxd) state owned enterprises

Answer: C) Personal Income Tax

Explanation: The personal income tax is an example of a local self-government revenue source. Local self-government bodies often have the right to collect taxes, including income tax, from the residents of their jurisdiction. These revenues contribute to the funding of local services, infrastructure projects and other initiatives.

Question 10. What is the importance of local self government in promoting democracy?

a) Local self-government restricts democratic principles.b) Local self-government ensures centralized decision making.c) Local self-government promotes citizen participation and accountability.d) Local self-government hinders transparency and governance.

Answer: c) Local self-government promotes citizen participation and accountability.

Explanation: Local self-government plays an important role in promoting democracy by promoting citizen participation and accountability. It allows individuals and communities to be actively involved in decision-making processes, to express their opinions, and to hold local authorities accountable for their actions. This decentralized form of governance empowers people to have a direct influence on policies and services that directly affect their local communities.

Question 11. What is the objective of local self-government?

a) centralizing the decision making powerb) Empowering local communities and residentsc) abolition of local officialsd) Increasing bureaucracy at the local level

Answer: B) Empowering local communities and residents

Explanation: The objective of local self-government is to empower local communities and residents by delegating administrative powers and decision-making authority to local authorities. It aims to bring governance closer to the people and enable them to participate in decisions that directly affect their communities.

Question 12. Which of the following is an example of a local self government body?

a) Parliament of IndiaB) Prime Minister’s Officec) Gram Panchayatd) Supreme Court of India

Answer: C) Gram Panchayat

Explanation: Gram Panchayat is an example of local self government body in India. It is the lowest level of the Panchayati Raj system and represents village-level administration. Gram Panchayats are responsible for local governance, rural development and meeting the needs of the village community.

Question 13. What is the role of citizen participation in local self-government?

a) Citizen participation in local self-government is not encouraged.b) Participation of citizens is limited to voting only in local elections.c) Citizen participation enables active participation in decision making processes.d) Citizen participation is completely focused on national level matters.

Answer: C) Citizen participation enables active participation in decision-making processes.

Explanation: Citizen participation plays an important role in local self-governance. It enables individuals and communities to be actively involved in decision-making processes, to voice their concerns and to contribute to the development and governance of their local area. Citizen participation can take a variety of forms, such as attending community meetings, giving feedback on local policies, and participating in local development projects.

Question 14. Which of the following is the highest level of local self-government in India?

a) Panchayat SamitiB) District Councilc) Gram Panchayatd) Municipal Corporation

Answer: B) Zilla Parishad

Explanation: Zilla Parishad is the highest level of local self government in India. It represents the district-level administration and is responsible for overseeing the functioning of several gram panchayats and panchayat samitis within the district.

Question 15. Which of the following functions are generally performed by the Municipal Corporation?

a) Rural DevelopmentB) Urban Planning and Developmentc) Agricultural Activitiesd) Forest Conservation

Answer: B) Urban planning and development

Explanation: Municipal Corporations are responsible for urban planning and development in their respective jurisdiction. They manage infrastructure, public services, waste management and other urban-related activities.

Question 16. How are the members of the Gram Panchayat selected?

a) By appointment from the State Governmentb) by direct election by the villagersc) by nomination from the Prime Ministerd) by appointment from the President

Answer: B) By direct election by the villagers

Explanation: The members of the Gram Panchayat are selected by the villagers through direct elections. Every eligible voter of the village community has the right to vote and elect its representatives to the Gram Panchayat.

Question 17. What is the purpose of Ward Committee in Local Self Government?

a) Monitoring the working of Municipal Corporationsb) Managing agricultural activities in rural areasc) regulating forest conservation measuresd) representing the specific needs of a ward within a municipality

Answer: D) To represent the specific needs of a ward within a municipality

Explanation: Ward committees are formed to represent the specific needs and concerns of a ward (specific geographical area) within a municipality. They act as a forum to address local issues and facilitate community participation in decision-making.

Question 18. Which of the following is a source of revenue for local self-government bodies?

A) Central Government Grantb) International charityc) property taxd) State Government Loans

Answer: C) Wealth Tax

Explanation: Property tax is an important source of revenue for local self-government bodies. It is collected from property owners in the jurisdiction of local self-government and contributes to the financing of local services and infrastructure development.

Question 19. Who is the head of the Municipal Corporation in India?

A) MayorB) Sarpanchc) Prime Ministerd) District Collector

Answer: A) Mayor

Explanation: The mayor is the head of a municipal corporation in India. The mayor is usually elected by the members of the municipal corporation and holds executive powers for the functioning of the corporation.

Question 20. Which of the following is an example of an urban local self government body in India?

a) Gram PanchayatB) Block Development Committeec) Metropolitan Municipalityd) District Council

Answer: C) Metropolitan Municipality

Explanation: A metropolitan municipality is an example of an urban local self-government body in India. It represents the local governance structure for metropolitan areas and is responsible for managing urban services, infrastructure and development.

Question 21. What is the primary role of Block Development Officer?

a) Monitoring the functioning of Gram Panchayatsb) managing forest resourcesc) handling international relationsd) Providing health services in rural areas

Answer: a) Monitoring the functioning of village panchayats

Explanation: The primary role of a Block Development Officer is to oversee the functioning of the Gram Panchayats within a block (administrative unit). They provide guidance, support and supervision to the Gram Panchayats in implementing development plans and initiatives.

Question 22. What is the significance of the 73rd amendment in the Indian Constitution?

a) It introduced the concept of local self-government in India.b) It abolished local self-government bodies in India.c) It strengthened the powers of the central government.d) It established a uniform system of governance in all the states.

Answer: a) It introduced the concept of local self-government in India.

Explanation: The 73rd Amendment to the Indian Constitution, passed in 1992, introduced the concept of local self-government in India. It provided constitutional recognition and a framework for the establishment of Panchayati Raj institutions at the village, intermediate and district levels.

Question 23. What is the role of women in local self-government bodies in India?

a) Women are not allowed to participate in local self-government bodies.b) Women have reserved seats and actively participate in decision making.c) Women can act only as assistants to male representatives.D) Women can participate but have limited voting rights.

Answer: b) Women have reserved seats and participate actively in decision-making.

Explanation: In order to promote gender equality and women’s participation, a certain number of seats are reserved for women in local self-government bodies in India. This ensures their active involvement in decision-making processes and local governance.

Question 24. Which of the following is the function of the Panchayat Samiti?

a) Management of schools and collegesB) Urban Planning and Developmentc) Administration of a group of village panchayatsd) maintaining law and order

Answer: C) Administration of a group of village panchayats

Explanation: Panchayat Samiti is responsible for the administration and coordination of a group of village panchayats within a block or tehsil. It facilitates the implementation of various development schemes and programs in rural areas.

Question 25. What is the role of District Collector in Local Self Government?

a) Representing the needs of the district at the state levelb) Monitoring the functioning of the Panchayat Samitic) Handling international relations at the district leveld) Acting as the Chief Administrative Officer at the district level

Answer: d) Acting as the Chief Administrative Officer at the district level

Explanation: The District Collector acts as the Chief Administrative Officer at the district level. They are responsible for coordinating and implementing government policies and programmes, maintaining law and order, and overseeing the functioning of local self-government bodies within the district.

Question 26. Which of the following is an example of civic responsibility in local self-government?

a) pay taxesb) Providing international aidc) Designing national policiesd) conduct diplomatic relations

Answer: a) Paying taxes

Explanation: Payment of taxes is an example of civic responsibility in local self-government. Individuals and businesses have a duty to make financial contributions to local self-government through the payment of taxes. These funds are vital for the development of local services and infrastructure.

Question 27. What is the purpose of Gram Sabha in local self-government?

a) Representing the needs of the village community at the block levelb) Managing agricultural activities in rural areasc) handling international relationsd) Facilitate direct participation of villagers in decision making

Answer: D) Facilitate direct participation of villagers in decision making

Explanation: Gram Sabha is a general body of villagers in a Gram Panchayat. It aims to facilitate direct participation of villagers in decision-making processes, discussing local issues, approving development plans and monitoring the implementation of government programs at the village level.

Question 28. Which of the following is a characteristic of local self-government?

a) centralized decision makingb) limited civil partnershipc) Tailored solutions to local problemsd) Uniform governance in all areas

Answer: c) Tailored solution to local problems

Explanation: One of the characteristics of local self-government is the provision of tailored solutions to local problems. Local self-government bodies have a better understanding of the specific needs and challenges of their respective areas, allowing them to develop customized policies and initiatives to address those issues.

Question 29. What is the role of State Election Commission in Local Self Government?

a) To manage international electionsb) Holding of elections to local self-government bodiesc) monitoring foreign affairs at the state leveld) Representing the state government in national level elections

Answer: B) Holding of elections to local self-government bodies

Explanation: The State Election Commission is responsible for conducting elections to local self-government bodies within the state. It ensures the smooth and fair conduct of elections, including preparation of electoral rolls, scheduling of elections and declaration of results.

Question 30. What is the role of Gram Sabha in local self-government?

a) Monitoring the functioning of the Panchayat Samitib) To manage urban planning and developmentc) handling international relations at the village leveld) Promoting participatory decision making at the village level

Answer: d) Promoting participatory decision making at the village level

Explanation: Gram Sabha plays an important role in promoting participatory decision making at the village level. It is a common body of all eligible voters of the Gram Panchayat, where they can voice their concerns, discuss local issues, participate in decision-making processes and hold the Gram Panchayat accountable for its actions. Can Gram Sabha helps in ensuring that the villagers get a share in the governance and development of their communities.

Question 31:What is the primary purpose of local self-government?

A) National DefenseB) Economic PolicyC) Grassroots GovernanceD) Foreign Relations

Answer:C) Grassroots Governance

Explanation:Local self-government aims to empower communities to govern themselves at the grassroots level, addressing local needs and concerns.

Question 32:Which level of government is responsible for implementing local policies and programs?

A) Federal GovernmentB) State GovernmentC) Municipal GovernmentD) International Government

Answer:C) Municipal Government

Explanation:Municipal governments are responsible for implementing policies and programs at the local level, addressing the specific needs of their communities.

Question 33:What is a common feature of local self-government structures?

A) Centralized Decision-MakingB) Limited AutonomyC) Local RepresentationD) International Intervention

Answer:C) Local Representation

Explanation:Local self-government typically involves elected representatives who understand and address the specific needs of the local population.

Question 34:Which principle promotes the delegation of authority to local bodies for decision-making?

A) CentralizationB) SubsidiarityC) FederalismD) Authoritarianism

Answer:B) Subsidiarity

Explanation:Subsidiarity encourages the delegation of decision-making authority to the lowest practical level, promoting local autonomy.

Question 35:What is the primary source of revenue for local self-government?

A) International AidB) State GrantsC) Property TaxesD) Federal Loans

Answer:C) Property Taxes

Explanation:Local self-government often relies on revenue generated from property taxes to fund local services and infrastructure.

Note: The given questions and answers have been specially designed for Class 6 ICSE students studying Local Self Government in India.

Question 36:Which of the following is a key characteristic of local self-government in promoting citizen participation?

A) Centralized BureaucracyB) Limited Public InputC) Decentralized Decision-MakingD) Strict Government Control

Answer:C) Decentralized Decision-Making

Explanation:Decentralized decision-making allows for increased citizen participation in local governance, fostering a sense of community involvement.

Question 37:What is the role of local self-government in urban planning and development?

A) National DefenseB) Infrastructure ProjectsC) Foreign PolicyD) Environmental Conservation

Answer:B) Infrastructure Projects

Explanation:Local self-government plays a crucial role in planning and implementing infrastructure projects to meet the specific needs of urban areas.

Question 38:Which term refers to the system where local governments derive authority from a central government but operate independently within their jurisdictions?

A) AutocracyB) FederalismC) UnitarismD) Oligarchy

Answer:B) Federalism

Explanation:Federalism involves a division of powers between central and local governments, allowing local autonomy within their respective jurisdictions.

Question 39:What is the significance of local self-government in promoting social and cultural diversity?

A) HomogenizationB) AssimilationC) PluralismD) Ethnocentrism

Answer:C) Pluralism

Explanation:Local self-government supports pluralism by recognizing and respecting diverse social and cultural identities within a community.

Question 40:How do local self-government structures contribute to responsive governance?

A) Limited AccountabilityB) Distance from CitizensC) Proximity to CitizensD) Authoritarian Leadership

Answer:C) Proximity to Citizens

Explanation:Local self-government structures, being close to the citizens, enhance responsiveness by addressing local issues more effectively and promptly.

Question 41:In a decentralized system of local self-government, what term describes the transfer of authority and responsibilities from the central government to local authorities?

A) DevolutionB) CentralizationC) AuthoritarianismD) Unitarism

Answer:A) Devolution

Explanation:Devolution involves the transfer of powers from the central government to local authorities, promoting local autonomy.

Question 42:Which type of local self-government represents a form of direct democracy where citizens directly participate in decision-making?

A) Representative DemocracyB) Oligarchic GovernmentC) Participatory DemocracyD) Autocratic Rule

Answer:C) Participatory Democracy

Explanation:Participatory democracy allows citizens to directly participate in decision-making processes, enhancing community engagement.

Question 43:What role does local self-government play in addressing environmental concerns at the community level?

A) Global Climate NegotiationsB) Local Environmental RegulationsC) International Conservation TreatiesD) National Energy Policies

Answer:B) Local Environmental Regulations

Explanation:Local self-government can enact and enforce regulations to address local environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.

Question 44:Which principle emphasizes the importance of equal distribution of resources and services among various regions within a country?

A) SubsidiarityB) EqualizationC) FederalismD) Centralization

Answer:B) Equalization

Explanation:Equalization ensures a fair distribution of resources and services, reducing disparities among different regions within a country.

Question 45:What term refers to the voluntary association of municipalities for addressing common issues and promoting regional development?

A) Central AuthorityB) Municipal CoalitionC) Regional CooperationD) Federal Partnership

Answer:C) Regional Cooperation

Explanation:Regional cooperation involves municipalities working together to address common issues and promote development in a collaborative manner.

Question 46:What is a potential challenge associated with local self-government structures?

A) Increased EfficiencyB) Lack of Local AccountabilityC) Centralized Decision-MakingD) Limited Citizen Participation

Answer:B) Lack of Local Accountability

Explanation:One challenge can be the potential lack of local accountability, which may arise if there are insufficient mechanisms for oversight.

Question 47:Which level of government is responsible for education policies and schools in a local area?

A) Municipal GovernmentB) State GovernmentC) Federal GovernmentD) International Government

Answer:B) State Government

Explanation:Education policies and schools are typically under the jurisdiction of state governments, ensuring consistency in educational standards.

Question 48:What is a common function of local self-government related to public safety and order?

A) National DefenseB) International PolicingC) Local Law EnforcementD) Foreign Affairs

Answer:C) Local Law Enforcement

Explanation:Local self-government often oversees and manages local law enforcement agencies to maintain public safety and order.

Question 49:Which aspect of local self-government is crucial for promoting economic development within a community?

A) Centralized Economic PlanningB) Local EntrepreneurshipC) Foreign InvestmentD) International Trade Agreements

Answer:B) Local Entrepreneurship

Explanation:Promoting local entrepreneurship is crucial for economic development within a community, fostering job creation and sustainability.

Question 50:How does local self-government contribute to social cohesion within a community?

A) Cultural HomogenizationB) Community EngagementC) Exclusionary PoliciesD) Centralized Decision-Making

Answer:B) Community Engagement

Explanation:Community engagement facilitated by local self-government enhances social cohesion by involving residents in decision-making and fostering a sense of belonging.

Quick links :

Featured articles:

Social sharing ⬇️