Devolution

noun

/ˌdevəˈluːʃən/

The transfer of legislative, executive, and financial powers from a central authority to subnational units (states or local bodies), enabling them to make decisions autonomously within a defined domain without requiring central government approval for each action.

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments sought to deepen democratic devolution by entrusting Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies with funds, functions and functionaries, yet genuine empowerment remains contingent on States actually ceding fiscal and administrative authority.

Synonyms

decentralisationdelegationtransferdispersal (of power)distributionhandover

Antonyms

centralisationconsolidationconcentrationunification

🌱 Word Family

devolve (v), devolved (adj), devolving (v pres.p), devolutionary (adj), devolutionist (n)

🔡 Root

Latin devolvere = to roll down; de- = down + volvere = to roll; noun suffix -tion

📜 Etymology

From Latin devolvere ("to roll down"), from de- ("down") + volvere ("to roll"). Used in political science from the 19th century to describe the delegation of central government powers.

🧠 Memory Hook

De- (down) + volve (roll, as in "revolve") — power is rolled DOWN from the centre to the regions and localities.

🏛️ Governance 📖 Seen in: Decentralisation and Governance Outcom...

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