Synopsis This book captures the process and implications of decentralilzed governance established at grassroots level in Tamil Nadu after the Introduction of the 73rd Constitutional amendment. It analyses the whole electoral process to the local bodies and highlights the achievements of ten Gram Panchayats with the support of the communities on social development issues. Further dealing with the development initiatives of the Panchayats and the people, the book portrays the linkages between the traditional and the formal panchayats for effective delivery of services to the people. Also, it addresses various issues concerning capacity building of Panchayat leaders, performance of dalit leaders and problems of women representatives. The book will be useful for policy makers, development workers and researchers.