Autonomy of Local Bodies.

WE have already referred to the decision of the Government of India to give full effect to the recommendation of the Decentralisation Commission regarding the freedom of local bodies in the preparation of their budgets. Among other proposals, are the following: They are generally-speaking to be allowed to introduce taxes up to the maximum prescribed by the law without further sanction. The services for which they pay are to be under their control. Grants-in-aid are nominally to take the form of a lump grant or a percentage contribution towards specific services rather than be more definitely earmarked. Greater freedoms is to be given as regards sanctioning works and with the exception of certain specified appointments such as municipal secretaries, engineers, health officers etc. are to have, subject to certain general rules, a free control over their employees.