EVOLUTION OF LOCAL GOVERNANCE: FROM ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS TO COLONIAL RULE IN THE INDIAN SUBCONTINENT

Abstract

The local government system in the Indian subcontinent has undergone significant evolution throughout its history, characterized by diverse political structures and administrative frameworks. In ancient times, the subcontinent witnessed the emergence of sophisticated urban civilizations, such as the Indus Valley Civilization, in addition to that over reliance on agricultural setup, local government system was also directed towards improving rural life. Hence ancient time period accompanied both rural and urban settings to manage local government system.

During the Mughal era (1526–1857), the subcontinent experienced a centralized form of governance under the rule of emperors who established a hierarchical administrative system known as the Mansabdari system. Local governance was delegated to appointed officials, such as the zamindars and jagirdars, who were responsible for collecting taxes and maintaining law and order at the grassroots level.

The British colonial period (1757–1947) marked a significant transformation in the local government system, as the British East India Company and later the British Crown imposed a centralized bureaucratic administration. The introduction of the District Collector and the implementation of the Ryotwari and Zamindari systems further consolidated British control over local governance, albeit with limited representation for indigenous populations.