Lucknow, June 23 -- In a move aimed at strengthening grassroot urban governance, the state government has granted enhanced financial autonomy to urban local bodies, allowing nagar panchayats to independently execute development projects worth up to Rs 1 crore. Nagar palikas (municipal councils) will now be able to carry out works up to Rs 2 crore without prior departmental approval. The decision follows a significant amendment to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) of 2021 by the Urban Development Department, reflecting a broader push towards decentralisation and administrative efficiency in line with the 74th Constitutional Amendment. Commenting on the reforms, principal secretary, urban development, Amrit Abhijat said, "This move will significantly enhance the financial independence of urban bodies, leading to faster decision-making, better quality control, and more effective service delivery."...