The basic idea behind decentralisation is that there are a large number of problems and issues which are best settled at the local level. People have better knowledge of problems in their localities. They also have better ideas on where to spend money and how to manage things more efficiently. Besides, at the local level it is possible for the people to directly participate in decision making.  This helps to inculcate a habit of democratic participation. Local government is the best way to realise  one important principle of democracy, namely local self-government.