constitution established the division of power between the national and state legislatures. Local government is provided for by the 73rd and 74th constitutional amendments. The national Ministry for Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation; Ministry for Urban Development; and Ministry for Rural Development are all responsible for local government. Scheduling of local elections varies from state to state. There has been a trend towards devolution of union and state power to local government. National development plan The Vision 2020 report – published by the Planning Commission in December 2002 – provides the framework for development planning. The Twelfth Five-Year Plan , covering the period 2012–17, works in conjunction with nationwide consultations by organisations representing citizens’ groups, notably women’s, dalits’ and youth organisations. The Plan aims to achieve an average growth rate of eight per cent over the five years covered. I n d i a The Eleventh Plan, covering the period 2007–12, aimed for faster and more inclusive growth than previous plans. Inclusiveness was to be achieved by ensuring that growth was broad-based and combined with programmes aimed at overcoming deficiencies in critical areas, for example by increasing access to health, education and other essential services. Governance Improving governance is seen as essential to achieving better outcomes for government policies and programmes. The Planning Commission’s mid-term appraisal of the Twelfth Plan, to be conducted by the end of 2014, expects to recommend giving priority to government spending on education and health care. Further information National Portal of India: india.gov.in Commonwealth Secretariat: www.thecommonwealth.org Commonwealth Governance: www.commonwealthgovernance.org Commonwealth Governance Handbook 2014/15 175
CEP template 2012
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