Question

State the main features of Panchayati Raj System.

Hint:

List the constitutional basis, three-tier structure, reservation, and devolved powers of Panchayati Raj.

Answer 1

Step 1: Constitutional basis:
The Panchayati Raj System was given constitutional status by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1993, making it a uniform, mandatory structure of rural local self-government across states.

Step 2: Three-tier structure:
It has a three-tier structure: the Gram Panchayat at the village level, the Panchayat Samiti at the block/intermediate level, and the Zila Parishad at the district level.

Step 3: Elections and reservation:
It mandates regular elections every five years and reserves seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and women (at least one-third, now often half, of seats), ensuring representation of marginalised groups.

Step 4: Devolution of powers:
It devolves powers over local planning, development schemes, and implementation of welfare programmes to these elected local bodies, promoting grassroots democratic participation.

Final Answer:
Panchayati Raj is a constitutionally mandated, three-tier (village-block-district) system of rural local self-government, with regular elections, reserved seats for SCs/STs/women, and devolved powers for local planning and development.