Book excerpt: It Is Usually Assumed That Local Government Was Basic Form Of Government In South Asia Till 5Th Century B.C. Available Evidence On The Power And Functions Of Local Government In Ancient Bengal Is Extremely Scanty.The Present Book Encompasses Important Readings On Local Self Government In Bangladesh.Major Topics Given Elaborate Treatment Herein Are: Local Government; Local Government Problem And Reform; Functions Of Local Government; Community Development And Local Government; The Council Structure Of East Pakistan; Pattern Of Financing Of Local Government; Gram Sarkar; Problem Of Participation; District Administration And Politics; District Administration: Framework And Pattern Etc.It Is Hoped, The Matter Contained Herein Will Prove Of Utmost Use To New And All Concerned.