Volume : 7, Issue : 3, MAR 2021

DECENTRALIZED GOVERNANCE IN ANCIENT BHARATA: A CRITICAL STUDY OF LOCAL INSTITUTIONS AND THEIR CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE

DR. SUNIL KUMAR SUROTHIYA

Abstract

Ancient Bharata embodies a long-standing tradition of decentralized governance through local institutions such as the Sabha, Samiti, and Panchayat. Contrary to the modern misconception of ancient India as dominated by centralized monarchies, early Indian polity nurtured participatory and community-centered administrative mechanisms. This paper examines the structure, functioning, and philosophical foundations of these institutions, drawing upon sources including the Vedas, Dharmashastras, and Arthasastra. It also evaluates their relevance in contemporary democratic governance, particularly in strengthening grassroots institutions. The study argues that ancient decentralized systems offer valuable insights toward enhancing accountability, inclusivity, and sustainability in modern local self-governance.

Keywords

DECENTRALIZATION, SABHA, SAMITI, PANCHAYAT, LOCAL GOVERNANCE, DEMOCRACY, ARTHASASTRA, ANCIENT BHARATA.

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