Question

Write an essay on Panchayati Raj.

Hint:

For an essay question, a clear structure is key. Start with an introduction (definition), move to the body (constitutional basis, structure, key features), discuss significance and challenges, and end with a concise conclusion.

Answer 1

Introduction:
Panchayati Raj is a system of rural local self-government in India. It is a cornerstone of India's democracy, aiming to build democracy at the grassroots level and to decentralize power, planning, and development. The term 'Panchayati Raj' signifies the governance by a council of five elected members.
Constitutional Basis and Structure:
The modern Panchayati Raj system was given constitutional status through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992. This landmark act mandated the establishment of a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj in every state:

Gram Panchayat at the village level.

Panchayat Samiti (or Block Samiti/Mandal Parishad) at the intermediate/block level.

Zila Parishad at the district level.
Key Features:
The 73rd Amendment introduced several crucial features to strengthen these institutions:

Regular Elections: It mandated direct elections to all seats in panchayats at all three levels every five years.

Reservation of Seats: It provided for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in proportion to their population. Furthermore, it mandated that not less than one-third of the total seats must be reserved for women.

State Finance Commission: It required the constitution of a State Finance Commission in each state to review the financial position of the panchayats and recommend the distribution of funds.

Devolution of Powers: The act outlined a list of 29 subjects in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution that could be devolved to panchayats, including agriculture, rural housing, and poverty alleviation.
Significance and Challenges:
Panchayati Raj is significant as it promotes democratic decentralization, ensures the participation of marginalized groups like women and SCs/STs in governance, and allows for local-level planning based on local needs. However, the system faces challenges such as inadequate funds (the '3 Fs': Funds, Functions, and Functionaries), political interference, and lack of awareness among citizens.
Conclusion:
Despite its challenges, the Panchayati Raj system remains a vital experiment in grassroots democracy, empowering millions of people in rural India and making governance more inclusive and participatory.