Local self-governing institutions like village panchayats have existed in India since ancient times. However, the modern form of local government in India was largely a creation under British rule. During the British period, local governments gradually lost their autonomy and became more centralized and subject to control by the provincial and central governments. After independence, the constitution did not adequately address urban local bodies. It was only in 1992 with the 74th constitutional amendment that urban local governments received proper recognition and status in India.