Question

With regard to the working of a Municipal Corporation answer the following question.

Giving examples, state how are compulsory functions distinguished from optional functions.

Answer 1

From the following, we can better understand the difference between compulsory functions and optional functions.
Compulsory Functions:
Public Health and Sanitation:

1. It undertakes the responsibility of maintaining hospitals and dispensaries, cleaning public lanes, and preventing the sale of rotten food-stuffs and adulterated milk, etc.
2. Electricity and Water Supply: It provides safe drinking- water and electricity for domestic and commercial use.
3. Education and Sports: The Municipalities establish primary and secondary .schools. They also provide facilities to young boys and girls to develop their aptitude for sports.
4. Public Works: The public works mainly’ include the construction of roads, shopping centers, and community halls.
5. Registration of Births and Deaths: The Municipals Boards maintain an account of births and deaths in the city.

Optional Functions:

1. Transport Facilities: Local authorities may manage a bus service for carrying people from one place to another.
2. Cultural Activities: Municipal Corporations may establish libraries and museums. Cultural activities like— drama, music, and painting are also encouraged by Municipal Corporations.
3. Sports and Recreation: The Corporation organises fairs, exhibitions, and wrestling events. Recreational facilities may also be provided.
4. Welfare Services: Municipal Corporations are expected to launch family welfare schemes and to undertake poverty alleviation programmers. The Corporation can look after the public distribution system too.