Question

Which powers and responsibilities are not endowed by the Constitution to the Panchayats?

• A. The preparation of plans for economic development
• B. The implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice
• C. Agriculture, including agricultural extension
• D. Regulation of slaughter homes and tanneries

Hint:

Panchayat items (11th Schedule) focus on rural/agrarian life, while Municipality items (12th Schedule) focus on urban infrastructure and regulation. Slaughterhouses and tanneries are typically urban regulatory concerns.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The powers and functions of Panchayats and Municipalities are listed in the Eleventh and Twelfth Schedules of the Constitution, added by the 73rd and 74th Amendments respectively.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Eleventh Schedule contains 29 functional items for Panchayats. These include:
- Preparation of plans for economic development and social justice (Option A).
- Implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice (Option B).
- Agriculture, including agricultural extension (Option C).
- Others include land improvement, animal husbandry, rural housing, etc.
The Twelfth Schedule contains 18 functional items for Municipalities (Urban local bodies).
The "Regulation of slaughter houses and tanneries" is specifically listed as item number 18 in the Twelfth Schedule. Therefore, it is a municipal function, not a panchayat function.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Regulation of slaughter homes and tanneries is a responsibility of Municipalities, not Panchayats.