This book advances the understanding of local governance in the context of myriad changes unfolding in the age of globalization, examining the concept of local governance using international reports and other diverse resources to derive meaningful insights into the imminent need of local governance. This volume adds to our understanding of functioning of Panchayati Raj institutions in the context of globalization. It examines the ground realities of Panchayati Raj institutions in Thane district of Maharashtra, evaluating the efficacy and efficiency of these institutions – whether the objectives laid down in the 73rd Amendment Act have been realized or not. Through the assessment of selected villages, the book covers a host of important issues including electoral process and practices, functioning of Gram Sabha, people’s empowerment and deepening of democratic values. Throughout the volume, an attempt is being made to deepen the understanding of the importance of local governance as a medium to advance humanitarian values, percolation of equality and building a strong community life. Contents 1 Introduction 2 Decoding Decentralization, Local Governance and Good Governance 3 Evolution of Panchayati Raj Instituions in India 4 Panchayati Raj in Maharashtra 5 Practising Local Governance: Some Issues 6 Panchayati Raj Institutions as the Central Processing Units of Democracy