essay on panchayati raj 500 words

Essay on Panchayati Raj System in India

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100 Words Essay on Panchayati Raj System in India

Introduction.

The Panchayati Raj System is a crucial part of India’s rural self-governance. It was established to empower villages and make them self-sufficient.

The system consists of three levels: the Gram Panchayat (village level), the Panchayat Samiti (block level), and the Zilla Parishad (district level).

The Panchayati Raj System helps in local decision-making, managing natural resources, and implementing development schemes.

Significance

This system is significant as it promotes democratic participation, social justice, and economic development at the grassroots level.

The Panchayati Raj System is a cornerstone of rural development and local governance in India. It ensures people’s participation in their own governance.

250 Words Essay on Panchayati Raj System in India

The Panchayati Raj System, a cornerstone of India’s democratic framework, is a three-tier system of rural local self-governance. Instituted by the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992, it empowers rural citizens, promoting participatory democracy and grassroots development.

Structure and Functioning

The system encompasses the Gram Panchayat at the village level, the Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and the Zila Parishad at the district level. Each tier is elected by the people and is responsible for implementing developmental programmes, maintaining law and order, and addressing grievances.

Empowerment and Decentralisation

The Panchayati Raj System fosters decentralisation by transferring power, responsibilities, and resources from the central and state governments to local bodies. It encourages community participation, enabling citizens to directly influence policies affecting their lives.

Women and the Panchayati Raj System

The system has significantly contributed to gender equality by reserving one-third of seats for women. This has given women a platform to voice their concerns and participate actively in the democratic process.

Challenges and the Way Forward

Despite its merits, the system faces challenges like lack of financial autonomy, inadequate training of elected representatives, and dominance of local elites. To address these, measures like capacity building, fiscal decentralisation, and promoting social auditing are crucial.

500 Words Essay on Panchayati Raj System in India

Introduction to the panchayati raj system.

The Panchayati Raj System in India is a three-tier system of local self-government that plays a crucial role in rural administration. Introduced by the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992, it marked a new chapter in the decentralization of power, bringing governance closer to the rural populace.

The Structure of Panchayati Raj System

The Panchayati Raj System operates on three levels: the Gram Panchayat at the village level, the Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and the Zila Parishad at the district level. Each tier has its elected representatives, known as Panchs and Sarpanchs, who are responsible for executing various development programs and maintaining law and order in their respective regions.

Role and Responsibilities of the Panchayati Raj Institutions

Significance of the panchayati raj system.

The Panchayati Raj System is a cornerstone of Indian democracy, fostering participatory governance by enabling direct participation of the people in the administration. It empowers marginalized sections of society, including women and backward classes, by reserving seats for them. This system also promotes accountability and transparency in governance, as decision-making is localized and accessible to the public.

Challenges and Issues

Despite its merits, the Panchayati Raj System faces several challenges. These include inadequate financial resources, lack of administrative capacity, and political interference. The devolution of powers to PRIs is not uniform across states, leading to disparities in their functioning. Furthermore, the limited awareness of Panchayat representatives about their roles often hampers the system’s effectiveness.

The Way Forward

The Panchayati Raj System is a significant step towards decentralization of power in India, promoting grassroots democracy. Despite the challenges, it continues to play a vital role in rural development and governance. By addressing the issues and strengthening the system, the Panchayati Raj can truly become an embodiment of self-governance, bringing about a transformative change in the rural landscape of India.

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Panchayati Raj System: Evolution of Local Self-Government in India

Last updated on February 10, 2024 by ClearIAS Team

The Panchayati Raj system is a vital component of India’s democratic governance, allowing citizens to participate in decision-making at the local level and contributing to the country’s rural development and grassroots democracy. Read here to learn more about the system.

We know there is a government in India at the Center and State levels. But there is another important system for local governance. The foundation of the present local self-government in India was laid by the Panchayati Raj System (1992).

But the history of Panchayati Raj starts from the self-sufficient and self-governing village communities. In the time of the Rig-Veda (1700 BC), evidence suggests that self-governing village bodies called ‘sabhas’ existed. With time, these bodies became panchayats (councils of five persons).

Panchayats were functional institutions of grassroots governance in almost every village. They endured the rise and fall of empires in the past, to the current highly structured system.

Also read: Punchhi Commission Report

Table of Contents

What is the Panchayati Raj System?

The Panchayati Raj system in India is a decentralized form of government that aims to bring governance closer to the grassroots level by establishing elected local self-government institutions in rural areas.

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The term “Panchayati Raj” literally translates to “rule by the five,” where “panch” means “five” and “raj” means “rule.” These institutions play a vital role in local governance, rural development, and participatory democracy.

The Panchayati Raj system in India is organized into a three-tier structure, comprising:

• Gram Panchayat (Village Level): This is the lowest tier and represents a single village or a group of villages. It is the basic unit of the Panchayati Raj system.
• Panchayat Samiti (Block/Mandal Level): The Panchayat Samiti is the intermediate tier that covers a block or a mandal, which typically consists of several villages.
• Zila Parishad (District Level): At the top of the hierarchy is the Zila Parishad, which covers an entire district. It coordinates and supervises the activities of the lower tiers.

History of local administration

The history of local administration in India is a long and diverse one, shaped by the evolution of political, cultural, and administrative systems over millennia. India has a rich tradition of local governance dating back to ancient times, and this system has evolved through various dynasties, empires, and colonial periods.

Ancient Period:

• In ancient India, the political landscape was divided into numerous Janapadas, or small kingdoms and republics. These Janapadas had their systems of local governance, with councils and assemblies known as “Sabhas” and “Samitis” that handled administrative and judicial matters.
• Under the Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE), Emperor Ashoka established a system of local administration with officials known as “Mahamatras” responsible for the welfare of the people in various regions. He also inscribed edicts on pillars and rocks to communicate his policies to the local population.

Medieval Period:

• Feudal System: During the medieval period, India experienced the emergence of feudalism . Feudal lords and local chieftains governed their territories with varying degrees of autonomy. The Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire introduced the system of “jagirs” or land grants to nobles in exchange for revenue collection and military service.
• Local Chiefs and Rajas: Regional rulers, such as Rajas and Zamindars, exercised local authority and governed their territories independently, often collecting revenue from peasants.

Colonial Period:

• The British East India Company and later the British Crown introduced a centralized administrative system that significantly altered local governance. They established a revenue collection system, where land revenue was collected directly from peasants or through intermediaries known as zamindars .
• The British also introduced local self-government institutions such as municipalities and panchayats. The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (1919) and the Government of India Act (1935) allowed for some degree of local representation in governance.

The village panchayat, as a system of administration, began in the British days, as their offer to satisfy the demands for local autonomy.

They opened up the governance of the lowest levels to the citizens. The GoI Act, of 1935 also authorizes the provinces to enact legislation .

Evolution of local self-government in India

Even though such minor forms of local governance were evident in India, the framers of the constitutions, unsatisfied with the existing provisions, included Article 40 among the Directive Principles , whereby:

“The state shall take steps to organize village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as units of self-government.”

Later, the conceptualization of the system of local self-government in India took place through the formation and effort of four important committees from the year 1957 to 1986. It will be helpful if we take a look at the committee and the important recommendations put forward by them.

Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957)

Originally appointed by the Government of India to examine the working of two of its earlier programs, the committee submitted its report in November 1957, in which the term ‘ democratic decentralization ‘ first appears.

The important recommendations are:

• Establishment of a three-tier Panchayati Raj system – gram panchayat at the village level (direct election), panchayat Samiti at the block level, and Zila Parishad at the district level (indirect election).
• District Collector to be the chairman of Zila Parishad.
• Transfer of resources and power to these bodies to be ensured.

The existing National Development Council accepted the recommendations. However, it did not insist on a single, definite pattern to be followed in the establishment of these institutions. Rather, it allowed the states to devise their patterns, while the broad fundamentals were to be the same throughout the country.

Rajasthan (1959) adopted the system first , followed by Andhra Pradesh in the same year. Some states even went ahead to create four-tier systems and Nyaya panchayats , which served as judicial bodies.

Ashok Mehta Committee (1977-1978)

The committee was constituted by the Janata government of the time to study Panchayati Raj institutions. Out of a total of 132 recommendations made by it, the most important ones are:

• Three-tier system to be replaced by a two-tier system.
• Political parties should participate at all levels in the elections.
• Compulsory powers of taxation are to be given to these institutions.
• Zila Parishad is to be made responsible for planning at the state level.
• A minister for Panchayati Raj is to be appointed by the state council of ministers.
• Constitutional recognition to be given to Panchayati Raj institutions.

Unfortunately, the Janata government collapsed before action could be taken on these recommendations.

G V K Rao Commitee (1985)

Appointed by the Planning Commission, the committee concluded that the developmental procedures were gradually being taken away from the local self-government institutions, resulting in a system comparable to ‘grass without roots’.

• Zila Parishad is to be given prime importance and all developmental programs at that level are to be handed to it.
• Post of DDC (District Development Commissioner) to be created acting as the chief executive officer of the Zila Parishad.
• Regular elections are to be held

L M Singhvi Committee (1986)

Constituted by the Rajiv Gandhi government on ‘Revitalisation of Panchayati Raj institutions  for Democracy and Development, its important recommendations are:

• Constitutional recognition for PRI institutions.
• Nyaya Panchayats to be established for clusters of villages

Though the 64th Constitutional Amendment bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha in 1989 itself, the Rajya Sabha opposed it. It was only during the Narasimha Rao government’s term that the idea finally became a reality in the form of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, of 1992 .

Panchayati Raj System: 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment acts, 1992

The acts of 1992 added two new parts IX and IX-A  to the constitution. It also added two new schedules – 11 and 12 which contain the lists of functional items of Panchayats and Municipalities.

It provides for a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj in every state – at the village, intermediate, and district levels.

Read: Panchayati Raj

What are Panchayats and Municipalities?

• Panchayat and Municipality are the generic terms for the governing body at the local level. Both exist as three-tier systems – at the lower, intermediate, and upper levels.
• The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act provides for a Gram Sabha as the foundation of the Panchayati Raj system. It is essentially a village assembly consisting of all the registered voters in the area of the panchayat. The state has the power to determine what kind of powers it can exercise, and what functions it has to perform at the village level .
•  Nagar Panchayat  for a transitional area between a rural and urban area.
•  Municipal Council for a small urban area.
•  Municipal Corporation for a large urban area.
• Municipalities represent urban local self-government.
• Most of the provisions of the two acts are parallel, differing only in the fact that they are being applied to either a Panchayat or a Municipality respectively.
• Each Gram sabha is the meeting of a particular constituency called a ward.
• Each ward has a representative chosen from among the people themselves by direct election .
• The chairperson of the Panchayat or Municipality at the intermediate and district level is elected from among these representatives at the immediately lower level by indirect election .

Types of Urban Local Self-Governments

There are eight types of urban local governments currently existing in India:

• Municipal Corporations.
• Municipality.
• Notified area committee.
• Town area committee.
• Cantonment board.
• Port trust.
• Special purpose agency

How are the elections held in the local government bodies?

• All seats of representatives of local bodies are filled by people chosen through direct elections.
• The conduct of elections is vested in the hands of the State election commission.
• The chairpersons at the intermediate and district levels shall be elected indirectly from among the elected representatives at the immediately lower level.
• At the lowest level, the chairperson shall be elected in a mode defined by the state legislature.
• Seats are reserved for SC and ST proportional to their population.
• Out of these reserved seats, not less than one-third shall be further reserved for women.
• There should be a blanket reservation of one-third of seats for women in all the constituencies taken together too (which can include the already reserved seats for SC and ST).
• The acts bar the interference of courts in any issue relating to the election of local bodies.

What are the Qualifications needed to be a member of the Panchayat or Municipality?

Any person who is qualified to be a member of the state legislature is eligible to be a member of the Panchayat or Municipality.

“ But he shall not be disqualified on the ground that he is less than 25 years of age if he has attained the age of 21 years”

This  means that, unlike the state legislature , a person needs to attain only 21 years of age to be a member of a panchayat/municipality .

What is the duration of the Local Government bodies?

• The local governing bodies are elected for a term of five years.
• Fresh elections should be conducted before the expiry of the five-year term.
• If the panchayat/municipality is dissolved before the expiry of its term, elections shall be conducted within six months and the new panchayat/municipality will hold office for the remainder of the term if the term has more than six months duration.
• And for another five years if the remaining term is less than six months.

What are the Powers invested in these Local Self-Government bodies?

The powers of local bodies are not exclusively defined. They can be tailor-fitted by the state governments according to the environment of the states. In general, the State governments can assign powers to Panchayats and Municipalities that may enable them to prepare plans for economic development and social justice. They may also be authorized to levy, collect, or appropriate taxes.

To conclude, local self-government is one of the most innovative governance change processes our country has gone through. The noble idea of taking the government of a country into the hands of the grassroots level is indeed praiseworthy.

However, like any system in the world, this system is also imperfect. Problems of maladministration and misappropriation of funds are recurring. But this shall not stand in the way of efficient governance; and if these ill practices are rooted out, there would be no comparisons around the world to our system of local self-government.

Read: Finances of Panchayati Raj institutions

Article by: Unnikrishna Varma

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Reader Interactions

February 4, 2017 at 10:44 pm

Amazing wonderful info about 73rd nd 74th article excellent

February 5, 2017 at 12:15 am

thanku sir excellent…….

February 5, 2017 at 9:11 am

helpful post….. thank you ClearIAS for easing aspirant’s job. 🙂

February 5, 2017 at 9:40 am

Excellent sir

February 5, 2017 at 3:58 pm

easy and useful

February 5, 2017 at 10:15 pm

February 5, 2017 at 10:23 pm

The way it describes itself is easy to remember.

February 6, 2017 at 3:29 pm

Easy way to get the knowledge and remember . excellent work .

February 6, 2017 at 4:28 pm

very very nice

February 9, 2017 at 4:30 pm

Thank you, very nice

February 11, 2017 at 11:05 am

Please explain further about the need for a three-tiered system of governance at lower levels viz lower intermediate and higher

Also explain about the need for various types in urban bodiesviz.,municipality, municipal corporation, port trustetc,.-

February 26, 2017 at 10:24 pm

August 28, 2017 at 12:08 am

Super nd detailed information thnx

September 18, 2017 at 11:50 am

Is a gram sabha(formed by one or more villages according to its population) and gram panchayat same? or do we have a gram panchayat for each village irrespective of the number of villages in the gram sabha

November 29, 2018 at 12:10 pm

gram sabha is same Total number of electors are the member of gram sabha.

November 28, 2017 at 7:33 pm

why panchayati raj system is partyless

August 31, 2018 at 7:40 pm

Interesting and easy sir

November 7, 2018 at 11:09 am

where are thungon commitee and gadgil commitee

November 21, 2018 at 11:38 am

How many part of local govt in india

January 16, 2019 at 9:27 pm

greatly defined in brief.

April 15, 2019 at 4:13 pm

Can somebody enlighten me by telling when and where did the first Panchayat Elections took place?

May 24, 2019 at 11:57 pm

Ashok Mehta Committee recommended “a two-tier system” not “three-tier system”. Please edit the info.

August 8, 2019 at 6:11 pm

Nice sir useful to write my civics project

September 3, 2019 at 10:33 pm

Very useful and impotant information…many many thanks for this …

April 15, 2024 at 10:28 pm

Very useful information and content thanks a lot..

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• Panchayati Raj

Panchayati Raj - 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act

A three-tier structure of the Indian administration for rural development is called Panchayati Raj. The aim of the Panchayati Raj is to develop local self-governments in districts, zones and villages.

Panchayati Raj UPSC Notes Download PDF Here

Panchayati Raj is an important topic and questions are often asked from this section for the IAS exam . This article will provide you with evolution, various committees set-up for Panchayati Raj, salient features of the 73 rd Constitutional Amendment Act, functions of Gram Panchayat, and other details regarding this topic for the polity and governance segment of the UPSC syllabus .

CSE exam aspirants must refer to the details discussed further below in this article, important from the examination perspective.

Introduction to Panchayati Raj

Rural development is one of the main objectives of Panchayati Raj and this has been established in all states of India except Nagaland, Meghalaya and Mizoram, in all Union Territories except Delhi. and certain other areas. These areas include:

• The scheduled areas and the tribal areas in the states
• The hill area of Manipur for which a district council exists and
• Darjeeling district of West Bengal for which Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council exists

Evolution of Panchayati Raj

The Panchayati system in India is not purely a post-independence phenomenon. In fact, the dominant political institution in rural India has been the village panchayat for centuries. In ancient India, panchayats were usually elected councils with executive and judicial powers. Foreign domination, especially Mughal and British, and the natural and forced socio-economic changes had undermined the importance of the village panchayats. In the pre-independence period, however, the panchayats were instruments for the dominance of the upper castes over the rest of the village, which furthered the divide based on either the socio-economic status or the caste hierarchy.

The evolution of the Panchayati Raj System, however, got a fillip after the attainment of independence after the drafting of the Constitution. The Constitution of India in Article 40 enjoined: “The state shall take steps to organise village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as units of self-government”.

There were a number of committees appointed by the Government of India to study the implementation of self-government at the rural level and also recommend steps in achieving this goal.

The committees appointed are as follows:

• Balwant Rai Mehta Committee
• Ashok Mehta Committee
• G V K Rao Committee
• L M Singhvi Committee

Balwant Rai Mehta Committee & Panchayati Raj

The committee was appointed in 1957, to examine and suggest measures for better working of the Community Development Programme and the National Extension Service. The committee suggested the establishment of a democratic decentralised local government which came to be known as the Panchayati Raj.

Recommendations by the Committee:

• Three-tier Panchayati Raj system: Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad.
• Directly elected representatives to constitute the gram panchayat and indirectly elected representatives to constitute the Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad.
• Planning and development are the primary objectives of the Panchayati Raj system.
• Panchayat Samiti should be the executive body and Zila Parishad will act as the advisory and supervisory body.
• District Collector to be made the chairman of the Zila Parishad.
• It also requested for provisioning resources so as to help them discharge their duties and responsibilities.

The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee further revitalised the development of panchayats in the country, the report recommended that the Panchayati Raj institutions can play a substantial role in community development programmes throughout the country. The objective of the Panchayats thus was the democratic decentralisation through the effective participation of locals with the help of well-planned programmes. Even the then Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, defended the panchayat system by saying, “. . . authority and power must be given to the people in the villages …. Let us give power to the panchayats.”

Ashok Mehta Committee & Panchayati Raj

The committee was appointed in 1977 to suggest measures to revive and strengthen the declining Panchayati Raj system in India.

The key recommendations are:

• The three-tier system should be replaced with a two-tier system: Zila Parishad (district level) and the Mandal Panchayat (a group of villages).
• District level as the first level of supervision after the state level.
• Zila Parishad should be the executive body and responsible for planning at the district level.
• The institutions (Zila Parishad and the Mandal Panchayat) to have compulsory taxation powers to mobilise their own financial resources.

G V K Rao Committee & Panchayati Raj

The committee was appointed by the planning commission in 1985. It recognised that development was not seen at the grassroot level due to bureaucratisation resulting in Panchayat Raj institutions being addressed as ‘grass without roots’. Hence, it made some key recommendations which are as follows:

• Zila Parishad to be the most important body in the scheme of democratic decentralisation. Zila Parishad to be the principal body to manage the developmental programmes at the district level.
• The district and the lower levels of the Panchayati Raj system to be assigned with specific planning, implementation and monitoring of the rural developmental programmes.
• Post of District Development Commissioner to be created. He will be the chief executive officer of the Zila Parishad.
• Elections to the levels of Panchayati Raj systems should be held regularly.

L M Singhvi Committee & Panchayati Raj

The committee was appointed by the Government of India in 1986 with the main objective to recommend steps to revitalise the Panchayati Raj systems for democracy and development. The following recommendations were made by the committee:

• The committee recommended that the Panchayati Raj systems should be constitutionally recognised. It also recommended constitutional provisions to recognise free and fair elections for the Panchayati Raj systems.
• The committee recommended reorganisation of villages to make the gram panchayat more viable.
• It recommended that village panchayats should have more finances for their activities.
• Judicial tribunals to be set up in each state to adjudicate matters relating to the elections to the Panchayati Raj institutions and other matters relating to their functioning.

All these things further the argument that panchayats can be very effective in identifying and solving local problems, involve the people in the villages in the developmental activities, improve the communication between different levels at which politics operates, develop leadership skills and in short help the basic development in the states without making too many structural changes. Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh were the first to adopt Panchayati raj in 1959, other states followed them later.

Though there are variations among states, there are some features that are common. In most of the states, for example, a three-tier structure including panchayats at the village level, panchayat samitis at the block level and the zila parishads at the district level-has been institutionalized. Due to the sustained effort of the civil society organisations, intellectuals and progressive political leaders, the Parliament passed two amendments to the Constitution – the 73 rd Constitution Amendment for rural local bodies (panchayats) and the 74 th Constitution Amendment for urban local bodies (municipalities) making them ‘institutions of self-government’. Within a year all the states passed their own acts in conformity to the amended constitutional provisions.

Also read: Caste system and Panchayati Raj

73 rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992

Significance of the Act

• The Act added Part IX to the Constitution, “The Panchayats” and also added the Eleventh Schedule which consists of the 29 functional items of the panchayats.
• Part IX of the Constitution contains Article 243 to Article 243 O.
• The Amendment Act provides shape to Article 40 of the Constitution, ( directive principles of state policy ), which directs the state to organise the village panchayats and provide them powers and authority so that they can function as self-government.
• With the Act, Panchayati Raj systems come under the purview of the justiciable part of the Constitution and mandates states to adopt the system. Further, the election process in the Panchayati Raj institutions will be held independent of the state government’s will.
• The Act has two parts: compulsory and voluntary. Compulsory provisions must be added to state laws, which includes the creation of the new Panchayati Raj systems. Voluntary provisions, on the other hand, is the discretion of the state government.
• The Act is a very significant step in creating democratic institutions at the grassroots level in the country. The Act has transformed the representative democracy into participatory democracy.

Salient Features of the Act

• Gram Sabha: Gram Sabha is the primary body of the Panchayati Raj system. It is a village assembly consisting of all the registered voters within the area of the panchayat. It will exercise powers and perform such functions as determined by the state legislature. Candidates can refer to the functions of gram panchayat and gram panchayat work, on the government official website – https://grammanchitra.gov.in/.
• Three-tier system: The Act provides for the establishment of the three-tier system of Panchayati Raj in the states (village, intermediate and district level). States with a population of less than 20 lakhs may not constitute the intermediate level.
• Election of members and chairperson: The members to all the levels of the Panchayati Raj are elected directly and the chairpersons to the intermediate and the district level are elected indirectly from the elected members and at the village level the Chairperson is elected as determined by the state government.
• The Chairperson of a Panchayat and other members of a Panchayat, whether or not elected directly from territorial constituencies in the Panchayat area, have the right to vote in Panchayat meetings.
• For SC and ST: Reservation to be provided at all the three tiers in accordance with their population percentage.
• For women: Not less than one-third of the total number of seats to be reserved for women, further not less than one-third of the total number of offices for chairperson at all levels of the panchayat to be reserved for women.
• The state legislatures are also given the provision to decide on the reservation of seats in any level of panchayat or office of chairperson in favour of backward classes.
• before the expiry of its five-year duration.
• in case of dissolution, before the expiry of a period of six months from the date of its dissolution.
• Under any law for the time being in force for the purpose of elections to the legislature of the state concerned.
• Under any law made by the state legislature. However, no person shall be disqualified on the ground that he is less than 25 years of age if he has attained the age of 21 years.
• Further, all questions relating to disqualification shall be referred to an authority determined by the state legislatures.
• The commission is responsible for superintendence, direction and control of the preparation of electoral rolls and conducting elections for the panchayat.
• The state legislature may make provisions with respect to all matters relating to elections to the panchayats.
• the preparation of plans for economic development and social justice.
• the implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice as may be entrusted to them, including those in relation to the 29 matters listed in the Eleventh Schedule.
• Authorize a panchayat to levy, collect and appropriate taxes, duties, tolls and fees.
• Assign to a panchayat taxes, duties, tolls and fees levied and collected by the state government.
• Provide for making grants-in-aid to the panchayats from the consolidated fund of the state.
• Provide for the constitution of funds for crediting all money of the panchayats.
• Finance Commission: The state finance commission reviews the financial position of the panchayats and provides recommendations for the necessary steps to be taken to supplement resources to the panchayat.
• Audit of Accounts: State legislature may make provisions for the maintenance and audit of panchayat accounts.
• Application to Union Territories: The President may direct the provisions of the Act to be applied on any union territory subject to exceptions and modifications he specifies.
• The hill area of Manipur for which a district council exists
• Darjeeling district of West Bengal for which Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council exists. However, Parliament can extend this part to these areas subject to the exception and modification it specifies. Thus, the PESA Act was enacted.
• Continuance of existing law: All the state laws relating to panchayats shall continue to be in force until the expiry of one year from the commencement of this Act. In other words, the states have to adopt the new Panchayati raj system based on this Act within the maximum period of one year from 24 April 1993, which was the date of the commencement of this Act. However, all the Panchayats existing immediately before the commencement of the Act shall continue till the expiry of their term, unless dissolved by the state legislature sooner.
• Bar to interference by courts: The Act bars the courts from interfering in the electoral matters of panchayats. It declares that the validity of any law relating to the delimitation of constituencies or the allotment of seats to such constituencies cannot be questioned in any court. It further lays down that no election to any panchayat is to be questioned except by an election petition presented to such authority and in such manner as provided by the state legislature.

PESA Act of 1996

The provisions of Part IX are not applicable to the Fifth Schedule areas. The Parliament can extend this Part to such areas with modifications and exceptions as it may specify. Under these provisions, Parliament enacted Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, popularly known as PESA Act or the extension act.

Objectives of the PESA Act:

• To extend the provisions of Part IX to the scheduled areas.
• To provide self-rule for the tribal population.
• To have village governance with participatory democracy.
• To evolve participatory governance consistent with the traditional practices.
• To preserve and safeguard traditions and customs of tribal population.
• To empower panchayats with powers conducive to tribal requirements.
• To prevent panchayats at a higher level from assuming powers and authority of panchayats at a lower level.

As a result of these constitutional steps taken by the union and state governments, India has moved towards what has been described as ‘multi-level federalism’, and more significantly, it has widened the democratic base of the Indian polity. Before the amendments, the Indian democratic structure through elected representatives was restricted to the two houses of Parliament, state assemblies and certain union territories. The system has brought governance and issue redressal to the grassroot levels in the country but there are other issues too. These issues, if addressed, will go a long way in creating an environment where some of the basic human rights are respected.

After the new generation of panchayats had started functioning, several issues have come to the fore, which have a bearing on human rights. The important factor which has contributed to the human rights situation vis-a-vis the panchayat system is the nature of Indian society, which of course determines the nature of the state. Indian society is known for its inequality, social hierarchy and the rich and poor divide. The social hierarchy is the result of the caste system, which is unique to India. Therefore, caste and class are the two factors, which deserve attention in this context.

Thus, the local governance system has challenged the age old practices of hierarchy in the rural areas of the country particularly those related to caste, religion and discrimination against women.

The Panchayati Raj system constitutes an integral part of the IAS prelims and UPSC mains syllabus . Aspirants preparing for the upcoming CSE must be aware of the administrative set in the country.

UPSC Questions related to Panchayati Raj

What is the importance of panchayati raj.

Panchayati Raj institutes village local government that plays a significant role in the development of villages especially in areas like primary education, health, agricultural developments, women and child development and women participation in local government, etc.

Which state in India has no Panchayati Raj institution?

All states of India have Panchayati Raj systems except Nagaland, Meghalaya and Mizoram, in all Union Territories except Delhi; and certain other areas.

What are the features of Panchayati Raj?

• Gram Sabha: Gram Sabha is the primary body of the Panchayati Raj system. It is a village assembly consisting of all the registered voters within the area of the panchayat.
• Three Tier System: village, intermediate and district levels.
• Election of members and chairperson: The members to all the levels of the Panchayati Raj are elected directly and the chairpersons to the intermediate and the district levels are elected indirectly.

What are the 3 stages of Panchayati Raj?

The 3 stages or levels of the Panchayati Raj system in India are -Village Panchayat, Block Panchayat and District Panchayat.

Furthermore, candidates can also acquaint themselves with the information and preparation strategy of previous year UPSC toppers and accordingly chalk out a preparation plan to excel in the examination.

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• The Evolution of Panchayati Raj in India

The Evolution of Panchayati Raj in India  Blogs Home

• 24 Apr 2023

Panchayati Raj is a system of local governance in India that aims to promote democratic participation at the grassroot level. The term "Panchayati Raj" literally means "rule by five" and refers to a system of village councils that traditionally existed in rural India. As a matter of fact, the PRI was constitutionalized through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, of 1992. As a result, the concept of the Panchayati Raj system can be looked at from various different perspectives.

Panchayati Raj system from a political perspective and socio-economic angle

According to Schedule 11 of the constitution, the Panchayati Raj system in India can be viewed as a tool for democratic decentralization and grassroots political participation.

It provides an opportunity for local communities to have a say in decision-making processes and to take ownership of their own development.

One of the key political benefits of the Panchayati Raj system is that by allowing people to elect their own representatives and participate in decision-making processes.

Another key socio-economic benefit of the Panchayati Raj system is that it helps to promote rural development. And that is by devolving power to the local level, the system enables local communities to take ownership of their own development needs and to work together to address them.

As a result, it provides access to basic services like healthcare, education, and sanitation, as well as promotes sustainable rural livelihoods.

Consequently, the political benefit of the Panchayati Raj system is that it can help to reduce corruption and improve accountability. By devolving power to the local level, the system can help prevent corruption and power abuse by higher-level officials.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic benefit of the Panchayati Raj system is that it can help to promote social justice. By giving marginalized communities a greater voice in decision-making processes, the system can help to address longstanding social and economic inequalities. This can help to promote greater social cohesion and inclusivity and to reduce social tensions and conflicts.

Lastly, the Panchayati Raj system can also help to promote social and political equality.

With this let us look at the power structure and the hierarchy of the Panchayati system

Organizational Structure

The Panchayati Raj system in India is a three-tiered system consisting of Gram Panchayats (village level), Panchayat Samitis (block level), and Zila Parishads (district level). The flowchart of the system can be represented as follows:

Henceforth, there is devolution of power from higher levels of government to the local level which allows for greater participation and accountability at the grassroots level. So far, the modern Panchayati Raj system has undergone several stages of evolution.

Evolution of the Panchayati Raj System

The Panchayati Raj system in India has undergone several changes since its inception in the 1950s. The system has evolved over time with the introduction of new laws, amendments, and policies.

Here is a brief overview of the evolution of the Panchayati Raj system in India:

• Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957): The committee recommended the establishment of a three-tier Panchayati Raj system consisting of Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and Zila Parishads.
• Ashok Mehta Committee (1977): The committee recommended the establishment of a two-tier Panchayati Raj system consisting of Gram Panchayats and Zila Parishads.
• Constitutional Amendment (73 rd Amendment) Act, 1992: This amendment gave constitutional status to the Panchayati Raj system and added a new Part IX to the Constitution, which contains provisions relating to Panchayats. It provided for a three-tier system of Panchayats - Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and Zila Parishads. It also provided for the reservation of seats for women and scheduled castes and tribes.
• Constitutional Amendment (74 th Amendment) Act, 1992: This amendment provided for a similar system of local self-government for urban areas, known as Nagar Palikas or Municipalities.
• Amendments to the Panchayati Raj Act: Several amendments have been made to the Panchayati Raj Act, including the provision for the establishment of State Finance Commissions, which determine the allocation of resources to Panchayats.

This amendment mandated the establishment of three-tier Panchayati Raj institutions. This amendment also devolved several powers and functions to Panchayati Raj institutions, including local planning, social justice, and economic development.

Some people view the Panchayati Raj system as a positive development. That has brought governance closer to the people and has empowered local communities to participate in decision-making processes. They believe that the system has helped to improve the delivery of basic services. Markedly, it has helped to promote social justice and create opportunities for economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

Nonetheless, some people are critical of the Panchayati Raj system. Pointing to challenges such as corruption, nepotism, and the domination of local elites in decision-making processes. They argue that the system has not been effective in addressing deep-rooted social and economic inequalities. And also, that there is a need for greater accountability and transparency in the functioning of the system.

Akai Negi has done her Masters in Political Science after completing her graduation from DU. She has a keen interest in writing, blogging and journaling. When it comes to writing, she likes to do research and investigate topics of interest.

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Power to the people—the journey of Panchayati Raj Institutions

In 1993, institutions of self-government, known as panchayati raj institutions (pris), were first institutionalised in india. 2018 marks 25 years since they came into existence..

The thought process behind the Panchayati Raj system was to make democracy functional at the local level, and driven by citizens’ needs and participation. It was therefore introduced as a three-tier system that decentralised governance, decision making, and local development.

However today, the question remains: to what extent did the PRIs achieve the above stated goals? Before we get to that however, let’s look at the way PRIs took shape.

How did PRIs come into being?

While the panchayat is an old concept in India—through its presence as caste-based panchayats in villages—the structure, processes, and functions of the PRI system today are totally different.

Mahatma Gandhi was among the first and most important leaders to advocate for Panchayati Raj. His vision of a village panchayat was a small self-sufficient republic with individual freedom, opportunities for all, and full participation of the people.

Dr Tribhuban Panda, Sarpanch, Dundelmal Gram Panchayat, Kalahandi district, Odisha with other PRI members | Photo courtesy: Dr Tribhuban Panda

While the idea seemed revolutionary at the time, it was Gandhi’s endorsement of it that perhaps explains why the PRI system was partially accepted by the makers of our constitution. PRIs were mentioned in Article 40 only as a Directive Principle of State Policy in 1950. It stated that steps shall be taken to organise village panchayats, and endow them with the powers and authority necessary for them to act as units of self-government.

However, around the same time, the central government took a different route to facilitate local development, launching the Community Development Programme (CDP) as a pilot in 1952. The CDP tried to push an expert-driven, top-down development processes, moving away from the idea of organising village communities and self-government.

The CDP, however, was not very successful, despite strong government backing. The reason for this was that under CDP, people were neither involved nor did they participate in their own development. In fact, this was why the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee was formed five years later,  in January 1957, to review both the CDP and the National Extension Service , and suggest measures for improvement.

The committee’s report recommended that, “the government should divest itself completely of certain duties and responsibilities and devolve them to a body which will have the entire charge of all development work within its jurisdiction, reserving to itself only the functions of guidance, supervision and higher planning”.

A three tier elected self-government known as the Panchayati Raj Institution was suggested—with specific duties and responsibilities outlined—thereby formalising what was earlier just a statement of intent in Article 40.

Following the Government of India’s acceptance of these recommendations, various states started adopting the PRI system, with Rajasthan leading the pack in 1959, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, and other states shortly after. Between 1959 and 1988 various committees were formed to study the PRI system and suggest recommendations, which ultimately culminated in Panchayati Raj Institutions being officially recognised through the passing of 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act.

How do PRIs function?

The amendment made it obligatory for the states to establish PRIs in accordance with the act, and the Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, and Zilla Parishad were introduced as elected local bodies. The Sarpanch, also known as panch or pradhan in different states became the elected head of the Panchayat through a formal electoral process.

Ms Ranjita Suna, Sarpanch, Luhasinga Gram Panchayt monitors a school in her Panchayat | Photo courtesy: Fakira Rout

The Gram Sabha is recognised as the people’s parliament at the village level—the lowest level of administration and comprises all adult members of the village. It has the power to plan, approve, and monitor various development programmes for its village. It has a constitutional mandate, and the elected PRIs are accountable to the Gram Sabha.

There have been further iterations since, such as the Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act of 1996, which gave greater autonomy to people residing in tribal and forest areas.

Why are PRIs important, and what have they achieved till date?

There were two basic ideas behind introducing such a system. First, it would decentralise the democratic set up by widening political representation of different social groups, especially women. Second, it would enable the building of efficient local institutions that could plan, execute, and monitor their communities’ development through a participatory approach.

Today, 25 years on, these initial ideas must be seen as success indicators of the PRI system in India.

1. Decentralising the democratic process

In India, election to these local bodies has been carried out on a regular basis, in most cases, freely and fairly. Though some states have seen allegations of violence, these are primarily law and order issues.

Further, the formation of 2,49,016 Gram Panchayats, 6,603 Intermediate Panchayats and 606 Zilla Panchayats indicates the reach of decentralised governance in India. Out of 32 states, 19 have taken measures and reserved 50% of seats for women in these local bodies.

As per the available data, in 2014, there were 29,50,128 elected Panchayati Raj representatives (the recent figures would be around three million), of which 19% were from Scheduled Caste, 12% from Scheduled Tribe communities, and 46% were women. The PRI system has therefore definitely deepened political representation in the country.

The PRI system has therefore definitely deepened political representation in the country.

This inclusion and representation of women, scheduled tribes and castes is critical given that the socio-cultural systems in India are mostly caste and gender biased. Equal representation is essential if we have to focus on particular developmental issues and bring in equity.

2. The devolution of power

The second idea is critical, as it not only speaks to the role played by PRIs, but also reflects the willingness of both the central and state governments to give real power to these institutions. Without this devolution of power, decentralised self-government has no meaning.

The 73rd   Amendment provisioned for 29 subject matters in the 11th schedule , over which PRIs would have complete power to plan, execute, and monitor. However, the current status of these differs across states. The funds, function and functionaries that form the three main components of the devolution of power vary, and thereby weaken the system in many respects.

The devolution of power reflects the willingness of both the central and state governments to give real power to these institutions.

A devolution report   published by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in 2015-16, mentioned that devolution has two main aspects: the operational core that includes funds, function, functionaries, and the support system that includes capacity building of PRIs, operationalising constitutional mechanisms and introducing systems of transparency and accountability.

From the reflections of the report, it can be concluded that the real devolution still has a long way to go. In terms of devolving function, functionary and finance, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka top the list, whereas Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, and Jharkhand are at the bottom.

Mr Dashrath Duruka, Sarpanch, Sherpalli Gram Panchayat, Malkangiri District, Odisha seeking clarifications on ICDS service from an ICDS worker in a Gram Sabh | Photo courtesy: Jitendra Rath

What are the gaps?

Despite the well-thought through provisions, there are several problems in how PRIs function in practice.

• State leadership and officials are unwilling to provide real power to local elected leaders.
• Institutional structures like the district planning boards, created to expedite decentralised planning, are either non-functional or do not give priority to PRIs.
• Limited efforts have been made to empower elected PRI representatives with their constitutional functions; the focus has mostly been on trainings on the schemes and programmes.
• The state and central government have also started creating separate structures or units for implementing specific projects on education, health, and so on; this limits the role and powers of the PRIs.

As a result, in many cases, PRI representatives have become mere implementers and followers where as the idea was to build them as local leaders leading local development.

What steps can be taken to make PRIs truly effective?

The time has come to move from political representation to power devolution. There is a need for the state political leadership to accept the importance of PRIs, and devolve power to them as mandated in the Constitution of India. Building the capacities of the PRIs not as mere implementers of the projects but as planners and evaluators would help strengthen the institution.

There is also a need for elected local leaders to come together with their constituents, and demand more control and autonomy as enshrined to them by the Constitution of India.

It was in 1993 that institutions of self-government, known as Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), were first institutionalised in India. 2018 marks 25 years since they came into existence through the […]

Jitendra has been in the social development sector since 2004. He has worked with various organisations including Child Rights and You (CRY), and Oxfam India. He was also an advocacy intern with National Centre for Advocacy Studies, Pune. Based out of Odisha, Jitendra writes extensively in the regional newspapers, web portals and magazines on various developmental issues. His areas of interest are child rights and governance.

Sameet has over a decade of experience working in the development sector. He started his journey in the sector working as a researcher with Supreme Court Commissioners on right to food and went on to work with national and international organisations such as Child Rights and You (CRY), and Action Aid. He has a masters degree in social work. His areas of interest are food, nutrition, education, governance and programme management.

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Essay on Panchayati Raj System | India

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Here is an essay on ‘Panchayati Raj System’ for class 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. Find paragraphs, long and short essays on ‘Panchayati Raj System’ especially written for school and college students.

Essay on Panchayati Raj System

Essay Contents:

• Essay on the Gram Sabha

Essay # 1. Introduction to Panchayati Raj System :

Rural development had engaged the attention of the Indian leadership even before Independence. The goals of development in general and rural development in particular have been placed in the Constitution and the Five Year Plans. The Constitution has laid down the goal in terms of building a socialist, secular and democratic society.

In order to realize these goals it become necessary to devise institutional mechanisms, mobilize resources (both human and material), and transform existing institutional structures and value patterns with a view to build a new social and economic order based on the values of equality, freedom and justice.

Changing the existing institutional structures and social relationships is not an easy task. Thus, it became necessary to simultaneously initiate two processes- one for reorienting and, if necessary, even restructuring existing institutional structure and secondly, of building new institutional structures which could provide a base for the accomplishment of new goals.

The philosophy of development that emerged in India after Independence emphasized the involvement of the people into a structure that would enable them to actively participate in the process of decision-making. In order to bring democracy to the grass roots level and involve people in decision-making, an experiment was made with the devolution of power to the elected representatives and allocation of responsibility and financial resources as it was felt that this would be a major institutional device for the development of rural areas.

Democratic Decentralisation and Panchayati Raj :

In order to evaluate the working of Community Development Programme and to suggest ways and means to overcome the shortfalls of the programme, the Study Team on Community Projects and National Extension Service with Balvantray Mehta as Chairman was appointed by the Committee on Plan Projects of the Planning Commission in 1957. The committee observed that one of the least successful aspects of CD and NES work is its attempt to evoke popular initiative and recommended Democratic Decentralisation.

The word ‘Democracy’ is derived from the Greek word ‘demos’ meaning the people and kratos meaning authority, i.e. in democracy all authority originates from the people. Decentralisation means distribution of functions and powers from a central authority to regional and local authorities. Democratic Decentralization means that the government which has derived its authority from the people redistributes it to some extent to the people for decision and action at the local level. This is popularly known as Panchayat Raj in India.

The policy of democratic decentralization envisages:

1. The establishment of elected and organically linked democratic bodies at the village, block and district level;

2. The entrustment of all planning and developmental activities to these bodies; and

3. Transfer of adequate resources to these bodies to enable them to discharge duties.

Panchayati Raj system came into existence in 1959 with the twin objectives of democratic decentralization and local participation in plan programmes. The states of Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh became the pioneers. The other states followed and by the end of a decade Panchayati Raj had been established in different states of the country. It was hailed as a revolutionary and historical step in the context of development.

The Balvantray Mehta report recommended a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj Institutes (PRI) with the village Panchayat at the lowest level, a Zilla Parishad at the apex (district level), and a Panchayat Samiti at the intermediate (block level).

Asoka Mehta Committee (1977) again evaluated the Panchayati Raj Institute (PRI). They abolished three tire system of PRI and introduced two tires by abolishing middle tire i.e. Panchayat Samiti. During the decade of 1990, it was realised that without constitutional power, the self-government can’t be fruitful; therefore the Central Government passed the 73 rd Constitutional Amendment Act in 1992, which became effective from 20 th April 1993 (from the date of publication in the Gazette of India). The Act again introduced three tire system of PRI.

Essay # 2. Features of 73 rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992   Regarding Panchayati Raj System :

Constitutional Status:

The 73 rd Constitutional Amendment Act was passed in 1992 but became effective from 20 th April, 1993 after being published in the Gazette of India. This was included as Part IX of the Constitution of India. The rights and duties of the Panchayats have been included in schedule XI of the Constitution.

Three Leveled Systems:

The Legislature of a state may, by law, make provisions for three leveled system of panchayat at village level, intermediate level and district level.

The representatives are elected for 5 years by the electorate of a Panchayat area.

Reservation of Seats:

Some seats in the Panchayat shall be reserved for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Women. The number of reserved seats for Schedules Castes and Scheduled Tribes will be proportionate to the ratio of population of SCs and STs to total population of the Panchayat area. One third of the total seat will be reserved for women. It will include the reserved seats for SCs and STs.

Responsibility:

Panchayats have two main responsibilities:

1. To plan for economic development and social justice.

2. To implement these plans.

Powers and Authorities:

According to the Constitution, Panchayats shall be given powers and authority to function as institutions of self-government.

The following powers and responsibilities are to be delegated to Panchayats at the appropriate level:

1. Preparation of Plan for economic development and social justice.

2. Implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice in relation to 29 subjects given in Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution

3. To levy, collect and appropriate taxes, duties, tolls and fees.

It may also provide the Panchayat for making grants-in-aid to form the Consolidated Fund of the State. These funds can be used for implementing the plans.

Constitution of Finance Commission:

Finance Commission has to be constituted in every state to review the financial position of the Panchayats and to make recommendation to the Governor regarding the allocation of fund to be Panchayats.

Essay # 3. Organizational Structure of Panchayati Raj System :

A. Organisational Structure of Gaon Panchayat :

This is at the lowest level.

It consists of:

(a) One president – directly elected by people.

(b) One vice president – to be elected from among the members of Gaon Panchayat.

(c) Ten members – directly elected by people.

The Office of the president is of great importance. He is charged with the responsibility of supervision and coordination of the activities of the Panchayat. He is an ex-officio member of the Panchayat Samiti and participates in its decision-making as well as in the election of the Pradhan and of the members of various Standing Committees.

He acts as the executive head of the Panchayat, represents it in the Panchayat Samiti as its spokesman and coordinates its activities and those of other local institutions like cooperatives. The Panchayat secretary and the village Level Worker are the two officers at the Panchayat level to assist the President in administration.

As the funds of the Panchayats are meager, the Panchayat Secretary is usually appointed by the Panchayat, on part-time basis. He mainly assists the Panchayats in recording decisions, keeping minutes, preparing budget estimates and reports, and does other sundry jobs like preparing notices, explaining circulars, or legal provisions, helping in organising Gram Sabha meetings etc.

B. Organizational Structure of Panchayat Samiti :

This is at the middle level.

(a) One president – to be elected by the elected members of the Panchayat Samiti.

(b) One vice president – to be elected by the elected members of the Panchayat Samiti.

(c) Members:

(i) One member from each Gaon Panchayat area to be directly elected by people.

(ii) President of the Gaon Panchayats falling within the jurisdiction of the Panchayat Samiti.

(iii) Members of Parliament and Legislative Assembly.

As the Chief Executive Officer of the Panchayat Samiti, the Block Development Officer is responsible for implementing the resolutions of the Samiti and its Standing Committees. He prepares the budget of the Samiti and places it before the Samiti for approval. He prepares the annual report of the Samiti and sends it to the Zilla Parishad and the State Government. He receives policy guidance from the Panchayat Samiti and is responsible to the President of the Samiti for his actions.

C. Organizational Structure of Zilla Parishad :

It is at the top level.

(a) One president – elected from among the directly elected members of Zilla Parishad.

(b) One vice president – elected from among the directly elected members of Zilla Parishad.

(i) Members directly elected from the Zilla Parishad constituencies of the district,

(ii) Presidents of the Panchayat Samiti.

(iii) Members of House of People and Member of Legislative Assembly.

Essay # 4. Standing Committees of Panchayati Raj System:

I. Standing Committees of Gaon Panchayat :

There are three standing committees of Gaon Panchayat, they are:

(a) Development committee.

(b) Social justice committee and

(c) Social welfare committee.

Members – Each committee shall consist of not less than three or more than four members elected from among the elected members of the Gaon Panchayats.

Functions – The standing committee shall perform the functions relating to the development of the rural areas and its people to the extent powers are delegated from the Gaon Panchayat.

II. Standing Committees of Zilla Parishad :

There are four standing committees of Zilla Parishad. These are general standing committee, finance and audit committee, social justice committee and planning and development committee.

Members – Each standing committee shall consist of such number of members not exceeding five including the Chairman as specified by the Zilla Parishad from amongst its members whose terms will be one year at a time.

Functions – Standing committees shall perform functions to the extent; powers are delegated to them by the Zilla Parishad.

III. Standing Committees of Panchayat Samiti :

There are three standing committees of Panchayat Samiti. These are general standing committee; finance, audit and planning committee and social justice committee.

Members – Each standing committee shall consists of such number of members not exceeding six including the Chairman, as may be specified by the Panchayat Samiti and chosen by the Panchayat Samiti from amongst its members.

Functions – The standing committee shall perform the functions relating to the development of the rural areas and its people to the extent powers are delegated from the Anchalik Panchayat.

Essay # 5. Power and Functions of Panchayati Raj System:

I. Power and Functions of Gram Panchayat :

Gaon Panchayats have two-fold functions-civic and developmental. Civic functions include sanitation, water supply, construction and maintenance of roads, lighting, maintenance of burial grounds, primary education etc. In addition, the Panchayat also acts as the agent of the Panchayat Samiti in executing schemes of development at the village level. Powers are vested to Gram Panchayat to perform various functions.

Some important functions are as follows:

i. Prepare annual plan and annual budget for Gram Panchayat area, organising relief operation during natural calamities, removing encroachment from public places, organizing voluntary services and collecting donations for public works and maintaining vital statistics of the villages.

ii. Identification and implementation of programmes of below Rs.50,000/- in collaboration with agriculture cooperation, irrigation and allied departments. Development of waste land, grazing land etc.

iii. Improvement of local breed of live stocks, development of fodder land etc.

iv. Development of village’s fisheries.

v. Planting of roadside trees, social forestry etc.

vi. Organising awareness camp, exhibition, training programmes etc. on agriculture, Khadi and village industries etc. and works for their development.

vii. Construction of rural housing and allotment of land for constructing residential house

viii. Protecting drinking water scheme/plant.

ix. Construction of rural road, drain etc.

x. Rural electrification including selection of site for electrification, providing and maintenance of lighting system at public places.

xi. Increasing source for non-conventional energy including improved chullah maintenance of implements of non-conventional energy source installed at rural areas.

xii. Increasing awareness and participation of rural peoples for income generating and poverty eradication programmes, selection of beneficiaries for such programme.

xiii. Increasing awareness and participation of rural people for primary and middle school education. Confirming the attendance of teachers and students for such school.

xiv. Implementing adult education programme and non-formal education

xv. Establishing rural library

xvi. Propagating social and cultural activities.

xvii. Controlling cattle-buffalo market

xviii. Maintaining village sanitation.

xix. Implementing family welfare programme, preventive and controlling measures against epidemics.

xx. Involvement in women and child development programmes.

xxi. Participating in welfare programme for physically and mentally handicap persons.

xxii. Any other functions as instructed by Panchayat and Rural Development Department

II. Power and Functions of Panchayat Samiti :

The Panchayat Samitis are entrusted with developmental functions. They have executive responsibilities in the matter of primary education, health, sanitation and communication. They also supervise the work of Village Panchayat. The Panchayat Samiti is the most powerful body entrusted with developmental functions like planning for increased agricultural production, animal husbandry, and village industries; improvement and construction of irrigation wells, promotion of cooperatives, provision of hostels for Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes/Backward Classes, planting of trees, input supplies and their distribution, women and child welfare, family planning etc.

Powers are given to panchayat samiti to carry out the different functions out of which some are listed below:

i. Preparing annual plan for its activities and submitted to Zilla Parishad for incorporating in its district plan. Compilation of annual plans of Gram Panchayats under its jurisdiction and sending to Zilla Parishad, preparation of annual budget of Panchayat Samiti and sending to Zilla Parishad for its approval.

ii. Helping in relief operations during natural calamities.

iii. Identification and implementation of different agricultural schemes (between Rs.50,000/ to Rs.1,00,000/-) in collaboration with agriculture, co-operation, irrigation and allied departments, storage and distribution of pesticides, farmer’s training etc.

iv. Helping governments and Zilla Parishad for their land development and land conservation programmes.

v. Assisting Governments and Zilla Parishad to construct and protecting minor irrigation projects, to implement watershed development programmes etc.

vi. Planning for implementing poverty eradication programmes.

vii. Protecting veterinary services, preventing epidemics against livestock’s.

viii. Expanding fisheries.

ix. Development of village and cottage industries

x. Implementation of house building programmes and distribution of land for residential house.

xi. Construction and maintenance of rural water supply schemes.

xii. Tree plantation at road side and other social forestry.

xiii. Expansion of non-conventional energy source

xiv. Development of primary and middle school building etc.

xv. Organizing training for village craftsman etc.

xvi. Development of social and cultural programmes etc.

xvii. Encouraging voluntary organization to involve in women and child development programmes.

xviii. Implementing programmes for physically and mentally retarded peoples.

xix. Expanding the programmes for welfare of SC, ST, OBC and other weaker section.

xx. Expanding rural electrification.

III. Power and Functions of Zilla Parishad :

It should be the function of a Zilla Parishad to prepare plans for economic development and social justice of the district and ensure the co-ordinated implementation of such plan. The Zilla Parishad exercise general supervision over the working of the Panchayat Samities and advises the government on the implementation of the developmental schemes. They have some specific executive function in the establishment, maintenance and expansion of secondary, vocational and industrial school. Zilla Parishad is mainly entrusted with coordinating and planning functions along with a few executive functions.

Some of the important functions of Zilla Parishad are examination and approval of the budgets of Panchayat Samities, distribution of funds between the various Block, coordination and consolidation of Block plans of the activities of Panchayat Samities.

Some important functions of zilla parishad are:

i. Implementing agriculture related programmes for its development.

ii. Implementing various schemes for development of irrigation, ground water and watershed.

iii. Development of horticulture

iv. Maintaining of statistic of panchayats, their activities etc.

v. Implementing and maintenance of rural electrification schemes

vi. Programme for soil conservation

vii. Development of regulated market

viii. Gradation of agricultural products and quality maintenance.

ix. Social forestry

x. Animal husbandry and dairy farm development

xi. Development of minor forest products, energy and fodder

xii. Development of fisheries

xiii. Development of small, cottage and food processing industries

xiv. Development and maintenance of rural road

xv. Development and maintenance of hospital etc.

xvi. Construction of rural house

xvii. Promotion of primary and middle school education

xviii. Welfare of weaver section

xix. Implementing poverty eradication programme

xx. Promotion of small savings

Essay # 6. Sources of Income for Panchayat :

The main sources of income of panchayat are:

1. Share in land revenue.

2. Revenue earned from the settlement of trade and commerce.

3. House taxes & other taxes.

4. Fees for providing amenities, cess and tolls.

5. Contribution and grants.

6. Fine and penalties etc.

Rural people have got a noble duty to ensure that the Panchayati Raj bodies can mobilize resources from the above sources so that these bodies can work for the socio economic development of the areas.

Essay # 7. Gram Sabha :

“Gram Sabha” means a body consisting of persons registered in the electoral rolls relating to a village comprised within the area of “Gram Panchayat”.

The Gram Sabha has been designed to be the place where villagers will discuss development issues, plan accordingly, initiate development programmes and select beneficiaries for the schemes. All the illegible voters of the village are the members of the Gram Sabha. Generally meeting of Gram Sabha is held at an interval of three months.

Functions of Gram Sabha – Gram Sabha shall consider the following matters and may make recommendations and suggestions to the Gaon Panchayats;

1. To report in respect of development programme of the Gaon Panchayat relating to the preceding year and development programme proposed to be undertaken during the current year.

2. The promotion of unity and harmony among all sections of society in the villages;

3. Such other matters as may be prescribed.

Related Articles:

• Relationship between Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti | Panchayati Raj
• Essay on Panchayati Raj | India | Public Administration
• Essay on Panchayats | India | Panchayati Raj | Public Administration
• Essay on Zila Parishad | India | Panchayati Raj | Public Administration

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[Commentary] Tracing Panchayati Raj’s role in deepening democracy and decolonising governance over 30 years

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• This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Constitution Amendments that led to the three-tier Panchayati Raj structures.
• The 73rd Amendment further led to legislation for its extension into tribal areas (Scheduled Areas) and the Forest Rights Act.
• Tracing the history of 30 years, the saga of decentralisation without democratisation is the story of hope to despair, writes C.R. Bijoy in this commentary.
• The views expressed in this commentary are of the author.

Three decades ago, in 1992, the Constitution 73rd (on Panchayat Raj) and 74th Amendment Acts (on Nagarpalika or urban local bodies) were enacted. These were the first definitive steps to extend and establish political democracy as the bulwark of governance across the country. These amendments were to give expression to Article 40 of the Constitution which enshrines one of the Directive Principles of State Policy, which requires the State to take steps to organise village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as units of self-government.

It took the ruling class, seeped in feudal values and dependent on the command and control line departments for governance, over four decades to repose faith in the people to govern themselves. The colonial administration, established to govern a subjugated land and her peoples, that India had inherited, was finally to be disbanded, once and for all, or so it was thought.

In retrospect

India has a long history of ‘democratic’ institutions from ancient times. Marked by shared sovereignty, the separation of power and authority left the villages to a great extent to function as self-governing village republics.

Charles T. Metcalfe, the acting Governor-General of India (1835-38) recorded that “The village communities are little republics, having nearly everything that they can want within themselves…Dynasty after dynasty tumbles down. Revolution succeeds to revolution…. but the village communities remain the same……This union of the village communities, each one forming a separate little state in itself, has contributed more than any other cause to the preservation of the peoples of India.”

Creation of intermediary structures, primarily for collection of taxes and delivery of services, rapidly grew under the British undermining the authority of the gram sabhas. The Government of India Act of 1919 introduced local self-governing institutions with popular mandate and control over local affairs. Village Panchayat Acts were enacted in Madras, Bombay, Central Provinces, Berar, Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Bihar, Assam and Punjab. The Government of India Act of 1935 introduced provincial autonomy and elected governments.

Yet, Panchayat Raj did not find a place in the draft Constitution. The debate, whether the village was “a sink of localism, a den of ignorance, narrow mindedness and communalism” (Dr. B.R. Ambedkar) or whether “Indian independence must begin at the bottom, ensuring that every village has to be self-sustained and capable of managing its affairs” (M.K. Gandhi) resulted in Article 40 in the Directive Principles of State Policy of the Constitution which was not enforceable. This was left for the future governments to deal with.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, many states created a new three-tier system. Most got neglected except in Gujarat and Maharashtra. West Bengal saw a fresh lease of life in 1973. A two-tier system was adopted in West Bengal in 1978 followed by Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala. Panchayat elections were regularly conducted only in Maharashtra and Gujarat (since early 1960s) and later West Bengal (since 1978).

Numerous official committees examined the issue of effective rural governance. The Balawant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) recommended the transfer of decision-making powers from the state to the village panchayats; the National Development Council (1958) wanted democracy to be extended to the grassroots and peoples participation in all governmental processes and development; the Ashok Mehta Committee (1977) proposed a two-tier system with the district panchayats to be the power centre below the state; and the G.V.K. Rao committee (1985) recommended a three-tier structure. Recognising the gram sabhas to be incarnation of the direct democracy, the L.M. Singhvi Committee (1986), favoured a new chapter to be brought in through constitutional amendment, with the gram sabha as the base of de-centralised democracy.

Read more: Thirty years after the Rio Summit the green report card is not fully in the red

The amendments

The Constitution (64th Amendment) Bill of 1989 proposing insertion of Article 243 in the Constitution making the three-tier structure mandatory in all states along with the Constitution (65th Amendment) Bill to endow urban local bodies passed in the Lok Sabha on October 13, 1989 could not get through the Rajya Sabha. A combined Bill of 1990 too was kept on hold as the government changed. Finally, the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act on Panchayat Raj and Constitution (74th Amendment) Act on Nagarpalika were passed on December 22 and 23, 1992 respectively. Ratified by all the state assemblies except West Bengal, the Acts were notified on April 24, 1993 and June 1, 1993 respectively.

Two new parts were added to the Constitution: Part IX ‘The Panchayats’ and Part IXA ‘The Municipalities’. The Acts transferred 29 subjects to the panchayats and 18 subjects to the municipalities. The states were to make suitable enactments within a year to be in conformity with these amendments. Rural governance was to be handed over to a three-tier Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs), and urban governance to three types of municipalities, one each for the large and smaller urban areas, and towns in transition from rural to urban area.

Whither rural governance?

About 66 to 69% of India’s population lives in the villages, which cover about 90% of the land mass in the country and come within the ambit of rural governance structures . A total of 255,278 village panchayats, 6,683 intermediate panchayats and 662 district panchayats in 755 districts cover some 6.5 lakh (650,000) villages.

As the subject of ‘local government’ is under the State list in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, the States were to enact suitable laws for operationalising Panchayats. Most States enacted panchayat laws or amended existing ones by 1994. The PRIs were to be completely in charge of planning and implementation with the government departments its executive arms. However, the 73rd Amendment, in letter and spirit, went missing in these state legislations. The colonial administration retained its hold over governance.

The Ministry of Panchayat Raj (MoPR) was born in 2004. In 2006-07 the MoPR started assessing the extent the 29 subjects were devolved to PRIs through a Devolution Index (DI) consisting of framework, functions, finances and functionaries under the Panchayat Empowerment & Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS). To this was added ‘accountability’ and ‘capacity building’ in 2013. This was to gauge state performance in empowering the PRIs. The states were ranked accordingly. The national average Panchayat Raj DI was found to be 42.38 in 2010-11 , 41.9 in 2011-12 , 38.5 in 2012-13 and 39.92 in 2013-14 .

The assessment was carried out by National Council for Applied Economic Research during 2006-07 to 2008-09, and the Indian Institute of Public Administration during 2009-10 to 2012-13. Rapid assessment of the status of devolution of powers and resources was carried out by Tata Institute of Social Sciences in 2014-15 and 2015-16. The Adjusted Index of Policy Adjusted Against Practice of States ranged from 0.20 to 0.77 averaging 0.39 on a scale of one in 2014-15 . The Notional Improved Index of Policy Adjusted Practice ranged from 0.01 to 0.65 averaging 0.16 on a scale of one in 2015-16 . This abysmal record seems to have led MoPR to simply give up assessing devolution altogether since then. April 24 of every year was declared to be the National Panchayati Raj Day in 2010.

Read more: [Commentary] Mapping the potential of Community Forest Resource Rights in central India

Lack of adequate devolution, excessive control by bureaucracy, tied nature of funds and non-harmonisation with other laws were key attributes to the non-performance of PRIs. Gram sabhas were made functionally unviable by constituting them at the gram panchayat level with too large a population, as an ornamental afterthought. Powers are vested in the elected bodies above the gram sabhas while retaining departmental hegemony. Instead of popular democracy as envisaged in the Constitution, the state laws promoted ‘Collector Raj.’ Instead of PRIs taking over the departments, the PRIs became appendages and extension of the departments. Whatever little powers remained were centralised; the gram sabhas met ritualistically two to four times a year rather than becoming the authority to direct the structure above which is what decentralisation is all about.

The conflict-ridden contestation for control between the political executive of the central and the state governments, and the colonial administration, in the absence of their harmonious integration, created an extra-legal market space. Steeped in murky dealings and flouting laws with impunity, this became the coveted space where the spoils are conceived and shared with abandon. The electoral democracy reduced itself to an unruly ride to occupy this nefarious market space rather than to govern. The colonial administration continued to be empowered through numerous other laws.

The failure to deepen democracy and decolonise governance in the context of the frenzy of ‘growth’ in the cauldron of globalisation intensified the spread of resource conflicts and ecological devastations. The people are perpetually pitted against the various arms of the state. The natural resource-dependent people are displaced and driven into dire poverty, forcing them to migrate to the uncouth urban enclaves for survival.

Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, hill areas of Manipur, hill areas of Darjeeling district in West Bengal, and the scheduled areas and tribal areas referred to in Article 244 (1) and (2) of the Constitution were exempted from the application of the 73rd Amendment.

The special Constitutional provisions under Article 371A for Nagaland  and 371G for Mizoram  provide exclusive power to their state assemblies on matters concerning religious or social practices, customary law and procedure of the concerned communities, administration of civil and criminal justice in areas covered by customary law, and ownership and transfer of land and its resources. Their legislative assemblies could have extended the provisions of the 73rd Amendment through state laws if they so desired; but they did not. They preferred their local traditional governance systems with modifications.

Nagaland has tribal council for each tribe, area council, range council and village council. The 16 tribes in Nagaland occupy a distinct territory governed through their diverse traditional self-rule systems. A number of public services as school education, primary health care and electricity services are ‘delegated services’ under the control of village authorities. Mizoram too has elected village councils replacing earlier traditions of hereditary chieftainship.

Read more: Participatory governance needs to be more effective for just transitions in India

Similar arrangements exist in the Sixth Schedule Areas, dominated by tribal populations. Often referred to as a state within a state, the Sixth Schedule provides the district or regional councils legislative, executive and judicial powers over a number of subjects. This includes control over land though not covering reserve forests, and to allot, occupy or use, or set apart land for any purpose that would promote the interests of the inhabitants of any village or town. The Sixth Schedule area covers 1.7% of the land mass with 0.6% of the population and 4.2% of the scheduled tribes in the country. Such areas are in Assam (six of the 21 districts), Meghalaya (except for the municipality and cantonment of Shillong), Tripura (about 68% of the State) and Mizoram (three districts).

Consequently, 16,096 traditional bodies are officially recognised as the governance authorities in Andaman and Nicobar Islands (201), Assam (469), Manipur (3,657), Meghalaya (9,017), Mizoram (834), Nagaland (1,289), Tripura (628) and West Bengal (1).

PESA: Democracy and governance redefined

The 73rd Amendment required the Parliament to extend its provisions through a legislation to the Areas notified under the Fifth Schedule and Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The Union Government did not initiate any legislative process for the Sixth Schedule Areas. The Ministry of Rural Development constituted the Bhuria Committee to outline the salient features of the law for extending the provisions of the 73rd Amendment to the Scheduled Areas in 1994.

Their report of 1995 outlined the powers, functions and procedures for gram sabha, gram panchayats, intermediate panchayats and autonomous district councils in Scheduled Areas. While vastly decentralising the powers, the Committee adopted the Sixth Schedule pattern with legislative, judicial and executive powers over certain subjects. Responding to the National Front for Tribal Self-Rule, a national coalition of Adivasis movements, the Parliament enacted the Provisions of the Panchayat (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act in 1996 PESA ).

PESA made historically distinct departures. First it defined the gram sabha as the hamlet or group of hamlets in contrast to the absurdly unwieldly gram sabha at the gram panchayat level of the PRIs. Then it defined gram sabha powers with a caveat that the structures above shall not encroach into its powers. This is possible only if the structures above the gram sabhas are autonomous in their own domains. Therefore, the structure above at the district level were to be patterned on the Sixth Schedule.

The gram sabhas are to prevent land alienation, restore illegally alienated lands, own minor forest produce, control minor water bodies and minor minerals within their territorial jurisdiction, manage village markets, control institutions and functionaries in all social sectors, restrict sale/consumption of liquor, safeguard and preserve the traditions and customs of the people, their cultural identity, community resources and the customary mode of dispute resolution amongst others. This became the first law in the country that redefined democracy with people at the centre of power instead of the elected members.

None of the state PESA amendments fully complied with the PESA provisions. Quite predictably, all the states without exception ignored the provision to adopt the Sixth Schedule pattern with the autonomous district council in charge.

Chhattisgarh was carved out of from Madhya Pradesh in 2000 and Telangana from Andhra Pradesh in 2014 along with some Scheduled Areas. The ten states relevant for PESA did not bother to operationalise the laws for over a decade. Rules were notified only since 2011 in six States. Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand, where the bulk of tribal peoples live with rich natural resources above and below ground, for these very reasons, are yet to notify Rules.

Most state and central subject laws were not amended to comply with PESA. The self-rule gram sabha was stuck into the emasculated mainstream PRI structure making self-rule administratively unviable. Nevertheless, people’s assertion of village self-rule as a legally legitimate political right emboldened the masses. In 2017-19, the Adivasis in disgust, despair and anger, launched the Pathalgarhi movement erecting stone slabs to demarcate the area of their villages’ jurisdiction in Jharkhand, declaring their autonomy and self-rule. This soon spread to adjacent States. The states responded with heavy police crackdowns and filing cases on a few thousands including sedition cases on a few hundreds.

The Fifth Schedule Areas cover 77,564 villages of 22,040 panchayats in 664 blocks. A total of 45 districts are fully covered and 63 districts are partially covered. Covering 11.3% of the land mass with 5.7% of the total population, 35.2% of the scheduled tribe population of the country live here.

FRA: Ushering in democracy in the forests

The mindless mid-2002 order of the Environment Ministry (MoEFCC) to summarily evict ‘all encroachments which are not eligible for regularisation’ triggered a wave of violent evictions across the country. People were evicted from 1,524 square kilometres of forests between May 2002 and March 2004 alone.

The resistance to this illegal order and the struggle for democracy in the forests coalesced into the Campaign for Survival and Dignity , a nation-wide coalition of forest dwellers organisations. The PESA framework provided the legal opening to formulate a mechanism to finally undo the by now officially acknowledged ‘historical injustice’, leading to the enactment of Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 ( FRA ).

Read more: When conservation efforts collide with tribal rights in Maharashtra

Departing from the usual empowering of the colonial administration, the law empowered the hamlet level gram sabhas as in PESA, to determine and approve the individual and community rights that they have been customarily enjoying. It provided for the demarcation of the ‘customary common forest land within the traditional or customary boundaries of the village or seasonal use of landscape’ which the gram sabhas are to protect, preserve, regulate and manage. Gram sabha consent for forest diversion for any purpose became mandatory.

The MoEFCC reckoned in 2009 that around 400,000 square kilometres of community forest resources are to be assigned ‘ to village level democratic institutions’ . As on December 2021, 64,361.67 square kilometres of forests were recognised and titled under FRA. This is perhaps the largest ever tenurial rights recognition in contemporary history anywhere in the world.

What the states could not do since independence were achieved when the gram sabha became the statutory authority to determine rights. FRA went steps ahead of PESA without any ambiguity in detailing a governance law to usher in democratic governance over the forest by forest dwellers. This is evidence enough why people’s democracy works, works fast and well.

In March 2010, the MoPR proposed three sets of amendments to the Constitution combining elements of the Sixth Schedule and Fifth Schedule where Panchayat Raj is applicable. It proposed a unified elected district council replacing the district panchayat, with representation from all rural and urban areas (excluding metropolitan areas) with powers over all subjects under panchayats and municipalities. The district council will be responsible for planning for the whole district consolidating the plans prepared by panchayats and municipalities, and for all the local functions. The district planning committee, comprising officials and experts, will assist this council. The district collector is to be the chief executive officer accountable to the elected district council.

The powers of the gram sabha under the PESA were proposed to be inserted as a new Schedule to the Constitution. The PESA provisions were to be added to the powers of the traditional village bodies of the Sixth Schedule Areas. But strikingly, this is yet to catch the popular attention.

The author examines resource conflicts and governance issues. An independent researcher, he works with mostly people’s initiatives on resource rights and democratic governance, such as forest rights, village self-rule and autonomy.

Banner image: Gram sabha meeting at Mendhalekha. Photo by Mendhalekha/ Wikimedia Commons

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• Development of Panchayati Raj

What is Panchayati Raj According to Constitutional Perspective?

It is very essential to have local self-government for the real development of the country because local levels are the real areas where the policies and programs are to be executed and where the government will come to know the problems and issues in the existing policies etc. Therefore, India also brought local government through the 73 rd and 74 th Amendment Acts of the Constitution which includes both - the Panchayats and the Municipalities. 

Development of Panchayati Raj Institution

Various committees have been formed to discuss the local governments or the Panchayati Raj system. For example Balwant Rai Mehta Committee and Ashok Mehta Committee of 1957. During the period of P.V. Narsimha Rao, 73 rd Constitutional Amendment Act was passed by the Parliament in 1992 along with the 74 th Constitutional Amendment Act also which added Part IX, i.e., The Panchayats and Part IX-A, i.e., The Municipalities respectively. Balwant Rai Mehta Committee was managed by the Government of India to look at the working of two of its very earlier programs. The committee submitted its very purposeful report in 1957. The word democratic decentralization first appeared there.

Their important recommendations were: Establishment of a three-tier Panchayati Raj system – i.e., gram panchayat at the village level, Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and Zila Parishad at the district level. 

The District Collector had to be the chairman of the Zila Parishad. Transfer of these resources and power to these bodies is to be ensured. The existing National Development Council accepted those recommendations which were made. However, they did not insist on a single and definite pattern which was to be followed in the establishment of these institutions. It allowed the states to devise their own pattern while the broad fundamentals were the same throughout the country. Rajasthan adopted the system first, followed by Andhra Pradesh in the very same year. Some states even went ahead to create four-tier systems with Nyaya panchayats, which served as various judicial bodies. The powers of a panchayat are not exclusively defined. They can be fitted by the state governments according to the environment of the place. In general, the State governments can assign powers to the Panchayats which enables them to prepare plans forthe economic development and social justice. They may also be authorized to levy and collect appropriate taxes. 

The G V K Rao Committee was established  by the Planning Commission. The committee concluded that the developmental procedures had to be taken away from the local self government institutions, which will result in a system comparable to ‘grass without roots’. Zila Parishad has to be given the prime importance and all developmental programs at that level are to be handed to it. Post of the District Development Commissioner is to be created  for acting as the chief executive officer of the Zila Parishad. Regular elections have to be held.

L M Singhvi Committee (1986)

It has been constituted by the Rajiv Gandhi government on the ‘Revitalisation of Panchayati Raj institutions  for Democracy and Development’. Its important recommendations are the constitutional recognition for PRI institutions, Nyaya Panchayats had to be established for those for villages. The 64th Constitutional Amendment bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha in 1989. Rajya Sabha opposed it. It was only during the term of Narasimha Rao government that the idea finally became a reality in the form of the 73 rd and 74 th Constitutional Amendment acts in the year 1992.

(Image will be Uploaded Soon)

Gram Sabha is the largest as well as the primary body of the Panchayati Raj system. It is a permanent body mentioned in Article 243(b) of the Constitution of India. It is a group that is created for the welfare of the village, which consists of people who are voters of that village. There can be one village or more than one village in a Gram Sabha.

Composition 

The person who fulfills the following conditions can be the part of Gram Sabha:

It includes those persons who are more than 18 years of age and living in the village whose name is also written in the electoral roll of the village panchayat.

Powers and Functions

As per the Indian Constitution, The Gram Sabha exercises its functions and has powers as decided and Provided by the legislature of that state. The various powers and functions of  the Gram Sabha are as follows:

Implementation of the development schemes and programs of the village panchayat.

It also identifies the beneficiaries of the various programs and schemes. If they fail to do so, then this task is done by the Gram Panchayat.

It requests support from the people of the village in various welfare schemes and programs in the form of cash or kind or both.

It supports the various mass education and family welfare programs and schemes.

It considers matters relating to levy of taxes or charges, etc., or any other matter referred by the Gram Panchayat.

Hierarchy of Panchayati Raj System

India follows the three-tier structure of the Panchayati Raj in the country, i.e., at the village level, intermediate level, and district level. These are discussed below:

At the Village Level

At the village level, we have seen that the Gram Sabha is a permanent and primary body, which is headed by the Gram Panchayat. The Gram Panchayat is a temporary body that takes all the village responsibilities. 

The whole village is divided into various wards and the representative of each ward is chosen who is called Panch or Ward Member. The head of the Panchayat is called the Sarpanch who is elected by the Gram Sabha. Thus, Gram Panchayat consists of all the Panch and Sarpanch who are elected for a term of 5 years. Besides these, there is one secretary, who is not elected like these members but appointed by the Government and this secretary is also the secretary of  Gram Sabha and he calls all the meetings of the Gram Sabha and the Gram Panchayat and also keeps records of these meetings.

Functions of the Gram Panchayat

The main function of the Gram Panchayat is to implement and execute the various government schemes and programs.

Identifying the beneficiaries of various schemes and programs in case Gram Sabha fails to do so.

Levying and collection of local taxes.

Construction as well as maintenance of the public property in the village-like roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, etc.

At Intermediate Level

At the intermediate level, there is Panchayat Samiti, which is also called Anchalik or Janpad or Block Panchayat. The intermediate level is also called the block level. Here, it is looked after by the Block Development Officer (BDO), who has a number of villages under him. There is no need for an intermediate level in the States having a population of fewer than 20 lakhs as per Article 243B of the Constitution of India.

At District Level

At this level, there is Zila Parishad. All the Block development officers of the state are answerable to the Zila Parishad. All the development plans are made by the Zila Parishad at the District levels with the help of Panchayat Samiti.

Other Details 

As per Article 243 ( C ) ( 2 ) of the Constitution of India, all the seats are filled with direct elections at all levels.

Seats of SCs and STs are reserved as per their proportion of the population.

⅓ seats are reserved for women and ⅓ of all the seats reserved for SCs and STs are also reserved for women.

Difference Between Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat

The difference between the two bodies are given below:

Here, In this article, we have talked about the Panchayats. We have learnt about the development of Panchayati Raj, the Gram Panchayat system, functions of Panchayat, how village panchayat works, the Gram Panchayat definition, the difference between Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zila Parishad, and other related things. We hope these notes will help you to understand the basic unit of democracy as well as the functioning of all these bodies. Understanding how the Legislative and the Executive bodies work at the local levels can be fun but also help you know the system better and use it in real life as well.

FAQs on Development of Panchayati Raj

1. Explain the Hierarchy of the Panchayati Raj System.

India adopted the three-tier structure of the Panchayati Raj system. At the village level,  Gram Sabha is a permanent and primary body which is headed by the Gram Panchayat. The Gram Panchayat is a temporary body that takes all the village responsibilities. At the intermediate level, there is Panchayat Smiti which is also called Anchalik or Janpad or Block Panchayat. The intermediate level is also called the block level Here, it is looked after by the Block Development Officer ( BDO ) who has a number of villages under him. At the district level, there is Zila Parishad. All the Block development officers of the state are answerable to the Zila Parishad. All the development plans are made by the Zila Parishad at the District levels with the help of Panchayat Samiti.

2. How Does Village Panchayat Work?

The village panchayat works with the help of Gram Panchayat and the Gram Sabha. The main function of the Gram Panchayat is to implement and execute the various government schemes and programs. Identifying the beneficiaries of various schemes and programs in case Gram Sabha fails to do so. Levying and collection of local taxes. Construction as well as maintenance of the public property in the village-like roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, etc. Gram Sabha also implements the Panchayati raj welfare development programs. Besides these, It requests support from the people of the village in various welfare schemes and programs in the form of cash or kind or both. It supports the various mass education and family welfare programs and schemes. It considers matters relating to levy of taxes or charges, etc. or any other matter referred by the Gram Panchayat.

3. What is the difference between panchayat and municipality?

Panchayat and Municipality are the terms for the governing body at the local level. Both exist as a part of the three tier system of the lower, intermediate and upper levels. The 73 rd Constitutional Amendment act provided for a Gram Sabha which was the foundation of the Panchayati Raj system. It is essentially a village assembly which consists of all the voters in the area of the panchayat. The state has the power to determine what kind of powers it has to exercise repeatedly, and what functions it has to perform at the village level. The 74 th Constitutional Amendment act provides for three types of Municipalities, i.e Nagar Panchayat is for a transitional area between a rural and urban area, municipal Council is for a small urban area and municipal Corporation for a large urban area. Municipalities represent the urban local self-government. Most of the provisions of the two acts are kind of  parallel. It differs only in the fact that they are being applied to either Panchayat or Municipality. Each Gram sabha is the meeting of a specifically particular constituency called ward. Each ward has to have a representative which has been chosen from among the people themselves by the direct election process. The chairperson of the Panchayat or the Municipality at the intermediate and district level are to be elected from among these representatives at the immediately lower level by indirect election

4. What is the duration of panchayat?

The local panchayats are elected for a term of five years.

Fresh elections are to be conducted before the expiry of the five-year term. If the panchayat is dissolved before the expiry of its term, elections are to be conducted within six months, and the new panchayat has to hold office for the remainder of the term if the term has more than six months duration. It will be for another five years if the remaining term is less than six months.

• Development of Panchayati Raj

The Indian government is divided into two parts the local government and the central government. Panchayat is the part of the local government. Panchayati Raj is the government at the village level that takes care of all needs of the villagers. Let us know more!

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Concept of gram sabha.

Basically, all the people in a village who are of whatever age and are registered as voters form the concept of a group for the welfare of the village which is known as Gram Sabha. So a meeting of all the adults who live in an area covered by a panchayat is called a Gram Sabha. This could be only one village or few villages.

What Does The Gram Panchayat Comprise of?

Each village is divided into smaller units called Wards . Each ward selects or elects a representative who is known as the Ward Member Or Panch . All the members of the Gram Sabah also elect a Sarpanch who is the president of the Panchayat.

It comprises of the Sarpanch and the Panch which   is elected for 5 years. Gram panchayat has a Secretary who is also the secretary of the Gram Sabah. This person is not an elected person but is appointed by the government. He is responsible for calling the meetings of the Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat and keep a record of the proceedings.

Discussion under Gram Panchayat

In the Gram Panchayat, various issues are discussed like

• Social issues
• Water problem
• BPL benefits
• Tracking misuse of money, and
• The undue favour done to a group of people

For example, if a village is having water problem what will be the alternative ways to develop. Different panch will come with different ideas like using the hand pump , checking dams and rainwater harvesting methods, making tube-wells or wells in the village. Now the Gram Sabha will select the best idea and try to work on it.

Thus the Gram Sabha is a key factor in making the gram panchayat to play its role and be responsible. It is the place where all plans for the work of the gram panchayat are placed before the people. Gram Sabha prevents the panchayat from doing wrong things like misuse of money for favouring certain people. It also keeps an eye on the elected representatives and in making them responsible to the persons who elected them.

For example, many people who are below poverty line and really in the need of BPL facilities, many times are not able to avail the facility just because of the corrupt people. At that time by keeping a track on the misuse of money and the undue favour done to certain people, Gram Panchayat plays an important role.

The Work of the Gram Panchayat includes: 

• Maintenance and construction of water resources, roads, drainage, School buildings and CPR (common property resources).
• Levy and collect local taxes.
• Execute government schemes related to employment.

Sources of Fund for Panchayat

• Collection of taxes on houses, marketplaces
• Government scheme funds for the betterment of the village received by Janpads and Zila Panchayats.
• Donations for community works etc.

Hierarchy of Panchayati Raj system

As we saw that panchayat system works as various Ward Sabha or Gram Sabha.  This Gram Sabha is headed by the Gaon Panchayat at village level and looks after the village level responsibilities.

Then we have Anchalik/ Janpad / Block or Panchayat Samiti at the block level. At the block level, we have a BDO officer who looks after a group of villages.

For example, let say if the region is having 10 villages and all those 10 villages are looked after by the Block Development Officer who is in-charge of all these 10 villages and all these 10-gram panchayats are answerable to the Panchayat Samiti.

And finally, we have Zilla Parishad at the district level . All the Block Development Officers are answerable to the Zilla Parishad or the body at the district level. The Zilla Parishad actually makes the developmental plan at the district level with the help of Panchayat Samiti.

Based on the Indian Constitution this panchayat has its own laws. The main idea is to provide more and more space for people to participate and raise their voices in the villages to bring development in the country.

Question For You

Q1. Write the main functions of Gram Panchayat?

Ans: Main functions of the Gram Panchayat are:

Q2. Name the three levels of the Panchayat.

Ans: The three levels are:

• Gaon Panchayat at the village level
• Anchalik/ Janpad / Block or Panchayat Samiti at the block level
• Zilla Parishad at the district level

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Panchayati Raj

6 responses to “development of panchayati raj”.

I wanna to know more details about Panchaty Raj not for exam

Good lecture

What do you mean pardhan in gram Panchayat?

How to call Ward members ?? Shall we call them as MC?? If not why ??

Thanks for the information

Gram panchayt

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1214 words essay on Panchayati Raj system in India

Free sample essay on Panchayati Raj system in India . The Panchayati system in India goes back to the Vedic times. It has been an integral part of a self-contained and self-sufficient rural administration.

A Panchayati consisted of five or more public representatives, selected or elected by the people. A pinch could be removed if people so liked. The Panchayati was headed by a Sarpancha or a Chief Sarpancha, who presided over the meetings and deliberations of a Panchayati. This council of panchas was fully responsible for the administration and development of a village. These five or more officials, constituting a panchayat, represented all the major sections of rural society. They administered justice, ruled over disputes, punished the guilty and looked after the welfare of the people. It functioned as a very important administrative body at various levels of villages, districts and provinces. These Panchayats or local bodies also looked after the temples, hospitals, welfare of the poor and other charitable works like digging and maintenance of ponds, wells, and the irrigation system, etc.

With the centralization of power, village panchayats came to be neglected, ensuring the rights and privileges of the ruling classes, nobility and feudal community only. These people concentrated powers in their own hands with the help of the state. This gave rise to authoritarianism, tyranny and exploitation of the rural poor, landless, and marginal farmers.

Image Source : 185.26.182.219

The reincarnation of Panchayati Raj, as a system of local self-government administered by a council or ‘Panchayat’ duly elected in a free and fair manner, is a step in the right direction. It is in keeping with the very spirit of democracy. It is essential that, to strengthen democracy, the panchayat system in India be given all possible help and encouragement. It will further help decentralisation of power and check the degeneration of democracy in a very effective manner. It has been an established fact that authoritarianism and too much concentration of power are the main obstacles in the process of democracy, which stands for full participation of the masses- in the administration through regular fair and free elections, etc. The Panchayati Raj system has been purposefully and specially designed to take care of various rural problems. It provides the administrative and legislative apparatus for implementation of the programmes of rural development.

The 64th Constitution Amendment Bill of May 15, 1989 has been a landmark in this context. It gave a new lease of life to Panchayati Raj as a truly representative system in our country. During the debate on the subject, the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi told the Lok Sabha that “Too often in the past Panchayati Raj has had functions without finances, responsibilities without authority, duties without the means for carrying them out. The Bill seeks to remove these disparities and bottlenecks and to make these rural legislatures or councils a fit and effective instrument of self-government.” The Bill also made it obligatory that elections be held regularly every five years, but various states have failed to fulfill this obligation and the Centre has had to intervene. Thus, the Bill has proved a milestone in revitalizing an ancient and time-tested democratic institution.

The Panchayati Raj system is best suited for developmental and administrative requirements of rural population and society because of wide variation in the nature of local problems. It is an inexpensive form of local self-government, which can suitably identify the local problems and issues, particularly of the poor and weaker sections of society, like scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, small, marginal and landless farmers, women and backward classes. It also ensures quick and equitable measures to solve the problems. It provides a proper forum, where local people can meet, discuss and chalk out programmes, policies and their speedy implementation. It also ensures decentralisation of power, and effective developmental activities, in which active participation of the rural masses can be envisaged.

The main objective of the system is to develop a method of decentralisation and devaluation of powers, functions and authority to the rural folk with a view to ensure rapid socio­economic progress and speedier and inexpensive justice. This is to be achieved through increasing agricultural production, development of cottage and rural industries, fuller and proper utilization of available local, natural and human resources with the active participation of the people. Besides progressive decentralisation of powers and authority, it aims at improving the living standard of the rural people in general and the weaker sections in particular.

It has a three-tier structure that includes Village Panchayats, Panchayat Semites and the Zila Parishads. While in most of the states there is a three-tier structure, in some states and Union Territories there is only a two-tier system and in some cases only one-tier structure. The village or Gram Panchayat functions at the village level. Each village has its own panchayat. In case of very small villages, there can be a common panchayat for a group of villages. The Gram Sabha or the Village Council, consisting of all the adult members of the village, elects the members of the panchayat. These members elect their chairman or head, known as Pradhan. They hold the office of the Gram Panchayat normally for a period of three years. Every panchayat has its own secretary and a Gramsevak to help it in its various functions. The panchayat chalks out the programme for agricultural production and co-operative management of the land. It also seeks to ensure a minimum standard of cultivation for raising agricultural production.

Panchayat Samitis work at the block level. These main executive bodies have all the elected Village Prashads of the Gram Panchayats as their members. The Presidents and Vice Presidents of these Samitis are elected from among these members for a period of three years. The main function of the Panchayat Samitis is to prepare, execute and co-ordinate the developmental programme at the block level. It is responsible for preparing and implementing plans for the development of agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, cottage and small scale industries, rural health by the block development officer and extension officers.

Then there are Zila Parishads. These function at the district level and are responsible for making, executing and co­ordinating the programmes of rural development for the entire district. A Zila Parishads has the presidents of the Panchayat Samitis in the district, the members of the legislative assembly (MLAs) from the district and the members of the Parliament (MPs) representing the district as its members. All these members elect their Chairman, from amongst themselves. The district collector and other government officials provide guidance and help for formation and implementation of development schemes and programmes.

Thus, the panchayat system in India assumes a very significant role because nearly 80% of its population lives in villages, spread over about 95% of its geographical area. This system is quite rational, practicable and in perfect harmony with the spirit of democracy and should be further strengthened and encouraged. It should be made economically viable and self-sufficient by providing adequate resources, funds and generous grants. The reservation of seats for women, scheduled castes and tribes in panchayats is a welcome step, for it would make the institution of panchayat more democratic, representative and balanced. The panchayat elections are conducted and supervised by the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections. All these measures ensure a bright and long lasting future of panchayat system in India.

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Essay on panchayati raj system in india (465 words).

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Panchayats have been the backbone of the Indian villages since the beginning of the recorded history. Gandhiji s dream of every village being a republic or Panchayats having powers has been translated into reality with the introduction of three-tier Panchayati Raj system to enlist people’s participation in rural reconstruction.

24th April, 1993 was a landmark day in the history of Panchayati Raj in India as on this day the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 came into force to provide constitutional status to the Panchayati Raj institutions.

The salient features of the Act are as follows:

i. To provide three-tier system of Panchayati Raj for all states having population of over 20 lakh.

ii. To hold Panchayat elections regularly for every 5 years.

iii. To provide reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and women (not less than 33 percent).

iv. To appoint State Finance Commissions to make recommendations regarding financial powers of the Panchayats.

v. To constitute District Planning Committees to prepare draft development plan for the district as a whole.

According to the Constitution, Panchayats shall be given powers and authority to func­tion as institutions of self-government.

The powers and responsibilities to be delegated to Panchayats at the appropriate level are:

1. Preparation of plan for economic development and social justice.

2. Implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice in re­lation to 29 subjects given in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution.

3. Levying and collecting the appropriate taxes, duties, tolls and fees.

The 73rd Amendment Act gives constitutional status to the Gram Sabha. The provi­sions of Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 extends Panchayats to the tribal areas of eight states, namely Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa and Rajasthan. This has come into force on 24th December, 1990. Except Rajasthan and Bihar, all states have passed laws to give effect to the provisions contained in the Act 40 of 1996.

Under the Act, Gram Sabha has been vested with powers for:

i. Ownership of minor forest produce, approval of development plans, selection of beneficiaries under various programmes.

ii. Consultation on land acquisition, manage minor water bodies, control min­eral leases, regulate/prohibit sale of intoxicants, preventing alienation of land and restoring unlawfully alienated land of STs, managing village markets, con­trolling money lending to STs, and controlling institutions and functionaries in all social sectors.

The ministry extends limited financial assistance to the states to train and create awareness among the elected members of Panchayats and functionaries. The Ministry has been providing financial assistance through the Council for Advancement of Peoples Action and Rural Technology (CAPART) to the non-governmental organizations for conducting training and awareness generation programmes on Panchayati Raj. The Ministry also commissions research and evaluation study related to Panchayati Raj from voluntary organizations institutions.

Related Articles:

• The Panchayati Raj and Decentralised Planning in India
• Panchayati Raj System: Essay on Panchayati Raj System In India

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Essay on “Panchayati Raj” Complete Essay for Class 10, Class 12 and Graduation and other classes.

Panchayati raj, 5 best essay on “panchayati raj”.

Essay No. 01

Synopsis:    Panchayat system is best suited to our rural needs and administration.  It is a right step towards devaluation and decentralization of power.  It deserves all help and encouragement as it is a truly representative and democratic system. As a fit and effective instrument of self-governance, it is matchless.  Now, Panchayati Raj institutions are there in almost all the Indian States with three tier arrangement at village, block and district levels.  There are nearly 2020 lakh Gram Panchayats, 5.5 thousand Panchayat Samitis and 371 Zila Parishads.  They have helped a lot in removing socio-economic disparities, among the rural masses.  They have also helped in the empowerment of women, backward, poor and down-trodden classes of the rural society.  Still these institutions need many reforms and more empowerment to be really effective.  Panchayats assume a very vital role because about 80 percent of Indian population lives in villages.

          Panchayats Raj institutions are democratic and so best suited to the rural population in Indian to take care of their local problems.  It is a system of local self-government run by a council or Panchayat elected democratically by the local people.  It provides the necessary administrative apparatus for the planning and execution of rural development schemes.  It is a very inexpensive system to identify and solve the local problems of the rural population.  It provides a platform where people can assemble, identify problems, and aims at decentralization of power.  Decentralization and devolution of powers are at the root of Panchayati raj.

          Panchayati Raj is nothing new to India and its history dates back to the hoary past.  It was an integral part of self-contained and self-sufficient rural planning, execution, and administration.  A Panchayat consisted of 5 or more public representatives selected or elected by the people. A panch or members of the council could be removed if people wanted it.  The Panchayat worked under a Sarpancha who presided over its meetings and deliberations.  They were fully responsible for the administration and development of a village or a group of villages.  The Panchayat administered justice, punished the offenders and decided the disputes, and looked after the welfare of the people.  The Panchayat also looked after the rest-houses, temple wells, ponds, irrigation systems, and schools.

          The re-introduction of the Panchayat system is in perfect harmony with our spirit of democracy and the aspirations of the rural public.  In order to strengthen democracy, it is imperative that the Panchayat system in the country is given all possible help and encouragement.  It effectively participation, decentralization, transparency, accountability, and fairness in the affairs of the villages.  The 64 th Constitution Amendment Bill of May 15, 1989, gave a new lease of life to Panchayati Raj as a truly representative system in India.  During the debate on the subject then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi told the Lok Sabha, “Too often in past Panchayati Raj has had functions without finances, responsibilities without authority, duties without the means for carrying them to make these rural legislatures or councils a fit and effective instrument of self-government”.  The Bill also made it obligatory that elections be held regularly every five years, but the various states have failed to fulfill this obligation and so the Centre had to intervene.

          Now, Panchayati Raj institutions are there in almost all states and union territories though with variations in structural pattern.  It involves a three-tier arrangement—village level, block level, and district level.  Panchayat Samiti and the third tier as Zila Parishad.  The tenure of Panchayati Raj institutions ranges from 3 to 5 years.  These institutions are generally responsible for the promotion of agriculture, rural industries, maintaining common grazing grounds, village roads, tanks, wells, sanitation, and execution of the other socio-economic programs.  In some places, they also provide for IRDD (Integrated Rural Development Programme) and the execution of other rural programs like JRY (Jawahar Rojgar Yojana). There are about 2020 lakh Gram Panchayats, 5.5 thousand Panchayat Samitis, and 371 Zila Parishads.

          The 73 rd Constitution Act, 1992 has further strengthened these institutions of democracy at village levels.  Because of these institutions’ awareness about their rights and privileges among the poor, the scheduled castes and tribes have been building up and they are coming forward to challenge and remove existing socio-economic disparities and injustices.  Many of the Gram Panchayats have their Pradhans from scheduled castes, tribes, and women folk.  These institutions have generated fruitful interaction and cooperation between the people of the upper castes and the people of the backward and lower castes.  Panchayati Raj institutions have definitely helped in the empowerment of women, the weak, the poor, and the downtrodden to some extent.  And in many cases, the poor and socially weak candidates have successfully won against their rich, resourceful, and influential candidates because of their integrity, character, dedication to service, and commitment to genuine social and economic change.  But it never means that Panchayats are today totally free from the dominance of beginning, the emergence of new awareness, and leadership. However, the resistance to these changes is evident in the elections not being held in stipulated time in many states.

          Panchayats must ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability.  They should aim at a quick resolution of disputes and fair distribution of surplus land among the landless villagers.  More and more persons like women, schedule tribes and castes, marginal farmers, and landless laborers should be involved in the process.  The Panchayats should be properly empowered to raise their funds to meet their development expenses.  The 10 th Finance Commission has separately earmarked over Rs.4,000 crores for the development program through the panchayats.  The panchas and sar-panchas should be trained and their access to information be improved so that they can take firm, quick, and right decisions as to what was good for their villages.  In order to reduce central control further, more emphasis should be laid on grass-root initiatives. Both the center and the State should ensure the flow of proper funds to these institutions for their effective working and success.  These institutions of democracy at grass-root levels cannot be economical, viable, and self-sufficient unless adequate resources are at their disposal, and generous grants-in-aid are given.

          The reservation of seats, for women, scheduled castes, and tribes in Panchayats is a welcome step for it will make them really democratic, representative, and balanced.  The Panchayati Raj institutions assume a very vital role because 80 percent of the country’s population lives in villages spread over about 95 percent of its geographical area.  It is cynical to think that panchayats cannot govern and administer.  They should be given more powers and resources so that they can function more effectively.  The panchayats alone can introduce democracy at grass root levels in an appreciable and effective way.  There is no other alternative.  Only panchayats can fruitfully tackle the specific problems of the area but for this, they need functional autonomy in the true sense of the term.  It is wrong to think that Panchayat institutions posed a threat to the power structure in these states. They would rather strengthen the state structure and so there should be more and genuine development and decentralization of powers and sources.

Essay No. 02

Panchayati Raj System

The panchayat system in India goes back to the Vedic times. It has been an integral part of a self-contained and self-sufficient rural administration. A panchayat consisted of five or more public representatives, selected or elected by the people. A panch could be removed if people so liked. The panchayat was headed by a Sarpanch or a Chief Sarpancha, who presided over the meetings and deliberations of a panchayat. This council of panchas was fully responsible for the administration and development of a village. These five or more officials, constituting a panchayat, represented all the major sections of rural society. They administered justice, ruled over disputes, punished the guilty, and looked after the welfare of the people. It functioned as a very important administrative body at various levels of villages, districts, and provinces. These panchayats or local bodies also looked after the temples, hospitals, welfare of the poor, and other charitable works like digging and maintenance of ponds, wells, and the irrigation system, etc.

With the centralization of power, village panchayats came to be neglected, ensuring the rights and privileges of the ruling classes, nobility, and feudal community only. These people concentrated powers in their own hands with the help of the state. This gave rise to authoritarianism, tyranny, and exploitation of the rural poor, landless, and marginal farmers. The reincarnation of Panchayati Raj, as a system of local self-government administered by a council or ‘Panchayat’ duly elected in a free and fair manner, is a step in the right direction. It is in keeping with the very spirit of democracy. It is essential that to strengthen democracy, the panchayat System in India be given all possible help and encouragement. It will further help decentralization of power and check the degeneration of democracy in a very effective manner. It has been an established fact that authoritarianism and too much concentration of power are the main obstacles in the process of democracy, which stands for the full participation of the masses in the administration through regular fair and free elections, etc. The Panchayati Raj system has been purposefully and specially designed to take care of various rural problems. It provides the administrative and legislative apparatus for the implementation of the programs of rural development. The 64th Constitution Amendment Bill of May 15, 1989, has been a landmark in this context. It gave a new lease of life to Panchayati Raj as a truly representative system in our country. During the debate on the subject, the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi told the LokSabha that “Too often in the past Panchayati Raj has had functions without finances, responsibilities without authority, duties without the means for carrying them out. The Bill seeks to remove these disparities and bottlenecks and to make these rural legislatures or councils a fit and effective instrument of self-government.” The Bill also made it obligatory that elections be held regularly every five years, but various states have failed to fulfill this obligation and the Centre has had to intervene. Thus, the Bill has proved a milestone in revitalizing an ancient and time-tested democratic institution.

The Panchayati Raj system is best suited for the developmental and administrative requirements of the rural population and society because of the wide variation in the nature of local problems. It is an inexpensive form of local self-government, which can suitably identify the local problems and issues, particularly of the poor and weaker sections of society, like scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, small, marginal, and landless farmers, women, and backward classes. It also ensures quick and equitable measures to solve the problems. It provides a proper forum, where local people can meet, discuss and chalk out programs, policies, and their speedy implementation. It also ensures decentralization of power, and effective developmental activities, in which active participation of the rural masses can be envisaged.

The main objective of the system is to develop a method of decentralization and devaluation of powers, functions, and authority to the rural folk with a view to ensure rapid socio-economic progress and speedier and inexpensive justice. This is to be achieved through increasing agricultural production, development of cottage and rural industries, fuller and proper utilization of available local, natural and human resources with the active participation of the people. Besides progressive decentralization of powers and authority, it aims at improving the living standard of the rural people in general and the weaker sections in particular.

It has a three-tier structure that includes Village Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and the Zila Parishads. While in most of the states there is a three-tier structure, in some states and Union Territories there is only a two-tier system and in some cases only a one-tier structure. The village or Gram Panchayat functions at the village level. Each village has its own panchayat. In the case of very small villages, there can be a common panchayat for a group of villages. The Gram Sabha or the Village Council, consisting of all the adult members of the village, elect the members of the panchayat. These members elect their chairman or head, known as Pradhan. They hold the office of the Gram Panchayat normally for a period of three years. Every panchayat has its own secretary and a Gramsevak to help it in its various functions. The panchayat chalks out the program for agricultural production and cooperative management of the land. It also seeks to ensure a minimum standard of cultivation for raising agricultural production.

Panchayat Samitis work at the block level. These main executive bodies have all the elected Village Pradhans of the Gram Panchayats as their members. The Presidents and Vice Presidents of these Samitis are elected from among these members for a period of three years. The main function of the Panchayat Samiti is to prepare, execute and coordinate the developmental program at the block level. It is responsible for preparing and implementing plans for the development of agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, cottage, and small-scale industries, rural health by the block development officer and extension officers.

Then there are Zila Parishads. These function at the district level and are responsible for making, executing, and coordinating the programs of rural development for the entire district. A Zila Parishad has the presidents of the Panchayat Samitis in the district, the members of the legislative assembly (MLAs) from the district, and the members of the Parliament (MPs) representing the district as its members. All these members elect their Chairman, from amongst themselves. The district collector and other government officials provide guidance and help for the formation and implementation of development schemes and programs.

Thus, the panchayat system in India assumes a very significant role because nearly 80% of its population lives in villages, spread over about 95% of its geographical area. This system is quite rational, practicable, and in perfect harmony with the spirit of democracy and should be further strengthened and encouraged. It should be made economically viable and self-sufficient by providing adequate resources, funds, and generous grants. The reservation of seats for women, scheduled castes, and tribes in panchayats is a welcome step, for it would make the institution of panchayat more democratic, representative, and balanced. The panchayat elections are conducted and supervised by the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections. All these measures ensure a bright and long-lasting future of the panchayat system in India.

Essay No. 03

‘Panchayati Raj’ means the system of administration which is related to the development of villages. The natives of the villages enjoy the right under this system to run the administration of their respective villages and bring about their development according to their needs and desires. They organize themselves in the form of Panchayats and take independent decisions on how to run their administration and fulfill their local needs and solve their problems by means of their limited resources. They, themselves frame and enforce the developmental projects. They receive monetary grants from the government and the government officials give them both guidance and assistance. They sit together and settle their petty disputes concerning land, water, and farming. They need not hang about the courts for such purposes.

In India, the Panchayati rule was in vogue since times immemorial. This system started stumbling during the British rule because the English created headmen and informers of corrupt behavior in the villages to propagate their dictatorship. During the freedom movement, Gandhiji used to say that Panchayats should be reorganized to make the villages self-dependent and self-reliant. This burning issue also attracted the attention of the framers of our Constitution. It has been clearly laid down in Article 40 of our Constitution that the State would take measures to organize village Panchayats and strengthen them. To give a practical shape to Gandhi’s long-cherished dream, the Panchayati Raj Act was passed, first of all in U.P. in 1950 and numerous powers were bestowed on the Panchayats. The Panchayati Raj system was subdivided into Gram Sabha, Gram Panchayat, and Gram Adalat (Village Courts).

Provision has been made to set up Gram Panchayat in every village. It is also an institution for local self-rule; the courts for petty civil and criminal cases also and the pivotal center of developmental activities. Panchayat (Block) Samitis have been set up on community development block levels. They are elected by the Panchayats and in return, they impart guidance and render assistance to all the Panchayats. They keep an eye on the activities of the Panchayats. Their sole objective is to bring about all-around development of the villages located in their jurisdiction. For this purpose, they formulate community development plans and launch them in their regions.

The Zila Parishads make efforts for collective development by coordinating the activities of the Panchayat Samitis of their area. They inspect (audit) the budgets of the Panchayat Samitis and advise them and keep an eye on their activities. They can give suggestions to the government regarding the development of the villages and launch governmental plans. They can take necessary steps for the development of rural life and raise the level of their living.

The Panchayati Raj System (Gram Panchayats, Panchyat Samitis, and Zila Parishads) has set up direct democracy in India and has established the people’s own rule in the villages. Under this system, each and every citizen gets a chance of seeking training in administration, and a spirit of freedom, self-reliance, and self-confidence germinates in them. Panchayati Raj is a sort of campaign for bringing about all-around development in rural life. But it is a matter of regret that factionalism (groupism), casteism, and a sense of retaliation (ruffianism) have blurred and tarnished our glorious dream of Panchayati Raj by casting their dark shadow on it. According to the recommendations of Ashok Mehta Samiti, the administrative decentralization should be methodical and the Mandal Panchayats should have active participation in the administrative activities of the district. It was also indicated in the report that political intervention, casteism, and corruption have an upper hand in these institutions, and bureaucracy and aristocracy have a monopoly in them. Hence the Panchayati Raj has proved itself incapable and a failure in sowing the seeds of democracy on the Indian soil and to play the role of a primary school to impart education for democracy and to bring about social changes. The Constitution

73rd Amendment Act has granted Constitutional status to Panchayats. Hereafter, the state legislature will formulate laws for the structure of the Panchayats and the powers assigned to them. Panchayats shall be constituted in every State, at the village, intermediary (block), and district levels. The States with a population not exceeding 20 lakhs need not constitute intermediate-level Panchayats. All seats in a Panchayat shall be filled by direct election. Each of the Panchayati areas will be divided into constituencies of a nearly equal population. The State Legislature can frame laws to grant representation in upper institutions to the Chairmen of the Panchayats, Members of the Parliament, and Legislators. Seats for Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes shall be reserved in proportion to their population in the Panchayat area and one-third of their seats shall be reserved for their women. In the same way, one-third of the total seats of any institution shall be reserved for women. In the same manner, the offices of the Chairmen shall also be reserved. By framing laws, the State Legislature can reserve the offices of the Chairmen of Panchayati Raj Institutions in favor of Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes, women, and backward classes. Each of the Panchayati Raj Institutions shall continue for five years. By framing laws, the State Legislature can bestow powers on Panchayati Raj Institutions to frame policies for achieving economic development and social justice, to collect money, and to launch their projects. Provision has been made for a Finance Commission for the State under this Act. Provision has also been made for setting up an Election Commission in the State for conducting regular elections. This Act does not apply to many regions and States.

Let us hope that the Panchayati Raj Institution will prove as the Alladin’s Lamp for the rural uplift.

Essay No. 04

Democracy implies a distinct evaluation of power to the grassroots level in a manner so as to invite in its fold-ready contribution of the common man with an occasional control and supervision of the government. Based on this premise is the Panchayati Raj institution and edifice of a democratic society.

Structured around the smaller unit viz. the village, of the Indian sub-continent, Panchayati Raj is a powerful instrument available to over six lakh villages in India, with which they can become economically self-sufficient and politically self-governing.

Article 40 in part IV of the Directive Principles of State Policy of the constitution states: “The state should take steps to organize village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as a unit of the self-government. This provision gives the villager a right to implement only those schemes which they deem fit for their village and surrounding rural areas falling under the jurisdiction of the village panchayat

Unfortunately, there is continued domination of the upper and the moneyed class in PRIs, who have used the Panchayat to further their sectoral, class, and other vested interests. Large sums of government money are either misappropriated or wasted on non-profitable ventures. Dishonest politicians and corrupt government officials are often hands in glove with non-sincere PRI members in forming a well-organized racket of siphoning off grants meant for rural upliftment.

December 22 and 23, 1992 saw the passing of the constitution (seventy-second) amendment bill with total unanimity by the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. This bill emerged as the Constitutions (seventy-third) amendment act 1993 after being ratified by 17 state assemblies. This legislation provides constitutional status to PRIs. It seeks to make major structural changes in the Panchayati Raj so that it can truly be called the unit of democracy. It suggests reservation for SC/ST and women candidates, indirect elections to the post of chairman at the district level, uniform 5-year term, the power to levy and collect local taxes, grant in aid from state consolidated funds to panchayats, and appointment of finance commission to look into the distribution of finances among other things,

The act will give a boost to various village-level developmental activities and the Jawahar Rojgar Yojana. With assured funds at their disposal, the gram panchayats will be at liberty to decide upon the suitability and implementation of village development schemes. Therefore like any other democratic institution, gram panchayats empowered with administrative and financial powers are expected to carry out the economic development of rural India with renewed vigor and prudent foresight.

The possibility of members taking advantage of the increased flow of money cannot be ruled out. Hence a body, closely monitoring their expenditure through periodic audits and regular statements of accounts need to be constituted or built in the district level of panchayats. This body along with an impartial central accounting agency can keep a watchful eye on the erroneous expenditure of the panchayats.

The government on its part can facilitate awareness camps with the help of NGOs and other intelligence. Informed rural masses can act as checks, and counter any misuse of the office by Panchayats members. This way the goal of realizing people’s participation in community development will be successfully achieved.

Essay No. 05

Rural Local Self-government in India is known by the popular name Panchayati Raj. It has been in operation since the early years of independence. It has the responsibility to satisfy the local needs and aspirations of the people living in rural areas i.e. villages. The establishment of Panchayati Raj in India Organization of Panchayati Raj in India came as a revolutionary step towards rural development. The launching of Community Development Programmed on 2nd October 1953 the National Extension Service was launched. These steps were designed to secure the involvement of the rural people in the process of rural development. However, the inadequate Success registered by these necessitated the need for reforms, in 1954, the government of India established the Balwant Rai Mehta committee for suggesting some major reforms. In October 1957, the Balwant Rai Mehta committee submitted its report. It suggested the organization of Panchayati Raj in rural India. It was to act both as an instrument of rural local self-government as well as an agency for community development. It recommended the creation of the three-tier Panchayati Raj- Panchayats at the village level, Panchayat Samitiesat the block level, and Zila Parishads at the district level. The National Development council accepted the recommendations of the Balwan Rai Mehta committee in 1958. The Government of India then called on all the states to implement these recommendations. On 2nd October 1959. Rajasthan came to be the first State to establish Panchayati Raj. Thereafter, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Bihar, Kerala, J & K. Himachal Pradesh, and infact all states introduced Panchayati Raj in their respective areas bypassing necessary laws. The whole of rural India came under Panchayati Raj. It still continues to be in operation.

Aims of Panchayati Raj

The main aim of the Panchayati Raj has been democratic decentralization, rural sell-government, and rural development Socioeconomic development of rural India has been a major goal. Panchyati Raj has been designed to encourage the people of rural areas in meeting their needs locally. It develops the habit of democratic living. It strengthens the foundations of Indian Democracy. Make villages self-governing and self-reliant units. Secure a sense of self-confidence among the rural people. It acts as a system of democratic education and training and undertakes rural development by involving the rural community, To Satisfy Local needs, promoting democratic living, providing political education and training, and rural development through local efforts. Working of Panchayati Raj By 1959, almost all the States had introduced Panchyati Raj in their rural areas. They quite faithfully adopted the recommendations of the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee. Almost all the states adopted the three-tier system. But within it some states like Maharashtra decided to assign the development functions to the Zilla Parishads and not to the Panchayat Samitis. However, other States decided to assign these functions to Panchayat Samities. During 1959.92 Panchayati Raj kept on working for achieving its objectives. However, its efforts were not fully successful. Its work brought to light several shortcomings which prevented it from becoming really successful. It virtually failed to produce a qualitative change in the rural life of India. Rural Illiteracy, lack of funds, poverty, inexperienced representatives, groupies, corruption, government interferences, lack of continuity in the working of Panchyati Raj institutions, and lack of interest taken by the rural people, all became responsible for the inadequate success of Panchayati Raj.

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Essay On Panchayati Raj

Panchayati Raj, a system of local self-governance in India, embodies the essence of democratic decentralization. Originating from the constitutional amendments in the 1990s, Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) were established to empower grassroots democracy and foster inclusive development. This essay aims to delve into the historical evolution, structural framework, significance, and challenges associated with Panchayati Raj, elucidating its pivotal role in shaping India's democratic fabric.

Historically, the roots of Panchayati Raj can be traced back to ancient Indian governance structures, where village councils, known as 'sabhas' or 'panchayats,' resolved local disputes and administered community affairs. However, it wasn't until the 73rd Amendment Act of 1992 that Panchayati Raj gained constitutional recognition, mandating the establishment of elected local bodies at the village, intermediate, and district levels. This landmark legislation marked a paradigm shift towards grassroots democracy, devolving powers and responsibilities to elected representatives at the grassroots level.

Structurally, Panchayati Raj Institutions comprise Gram Panchayats at the village level, Panchayat Samitis at the intermediate level, and Zila Parishads at the district level. Each tier is entrusted with specific functions, ranging from local infrastructure development and social welfare programs to resource management and rural planning. Through periodic elections, these institutions ensure democratic representation and participation, thereby fostering community engagement and accountability in decision-making processes.

The significance of Panchayati Raj transcends mere administrative decentralization; it serves as a catalyst for socio-economic empowerment and political inclusion at the grassroots level. By enabling local communities to identify their needs and priorities, PRIs facilitate targeted interventions and resource allocation, thereby addressing the unique challenges faced by rural India. Moreover, Panchayati Raj acts as a platform for marginalized sections, including women and Scheduled Castes/Tribes, to actively participate in governance and bridge the existing socio-economic disparities.

However, despite its transformative potential, Panchayati Raj encounters several challenges in its implementation. Issues such as inadequate financial resources, bureaucratic interference, and lack of capacity-building pose significant hurdles to effective local governance. Furthermore, issues pertaining to political patronage, corruption, and caste-based dynamics often undermine the principles of equity and transparency within PRIs, necessitating robust institutional reforms and capacity enhancement initiatives.

In conclusion, Panchayati Raj represents a seminal experiment in democratic decentralization, fostering grassroots democracy, and empowering local communities. While its journey has been marked by achievements and challenges alike, the enduring spirit of participatory governance continues to drive the aspirations of millions across rural India. Upholding the principles of inclusivity, transparency, and accountability, Panchayati Raj stands as a beacon of hope for democratic resurgence and inclusive development in the world's largest democracy.

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Model Essay Comparison Essay Post Classical Civilizations The post-classical period witnessed the rise and fall of several major civilizations that emerged after the decline of classical empires such as the Roman and Han dynasties. Two prominent post-classical civilizations, the Byzantine Empire and the Abbasid Caliphate, emerged in different regions of the world and left lasting legacies that shaped the course of history. The Byzantine Empire, centered around the eastern Mediterranean and the capital city of Constantinople, inherited much of the cultural, political, and administrative legacy of the Roman Empire. With its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, the Byzantine Empire served as a bastion of Christianity and a bulwark against Islamic expansion into Europe. The Byzantine Empire's political system was characterized by a centralized monarchy headed by the emperor, who wielded considerable power over the state and the Orthodox Church. Byzantine society was hierarchical, with a rigid social structure that included aristocrats, peasants, and slaves. The Byzantine Empire made significant contributions to art, architecture, and literature, preserving and adapting classical Greek and Roman traditions while also incorporating influences from the Near East and Asia. In contrast, the Abbasid Caliphate emerged in the Arabian Peninsula and rapidly expanded its influence across the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia. The Abbasid Caliphate represented the pinnacle of Islamic civilization during the post-classical period, fostering a golden age of learning, science, and culture known as the Islamic Golden Age. Under Abbasid rule, Baghdad emerged as a vibrant center of scholarship, trade, and innovation, attracting scholars, merchants, and artisans from diverse cultural backgrounds. The Abbasid Caliphate's political system was based on Islamic principles of governance, with the caliph serving as both the religious and political leader of the Muslim community. Abbasid society was characterized by religious tolerance, intellectual curiosity, and a rich cultural exchange between Muslims, Christians, Jews, and other religious communities. Despite their differences, the Byzantine Empire and the Abbasid Caliphate shared some similarities in terms of their administrative structures, economic systems, and cultural achievements. Both civilizations were characterized by a sophisticated bureaucracy that facilitated trade, taxation, and governance across vast territories. Additionally, both the Byzantine Empire and the Abbasid Caliphate made significant contributions to art, architecture, and literature, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy that continues to influence modern society. In conclusion, the Byzantine Empire and the Abbasid Caliphate represent two distinct but interconnected post-classical civilizations that emerged after the decline of classical empires. While the Byzantine Empire inherited much of the cultural and political legacy of the Roman Empire, the Abbasid Caliphate ushered in a golden age of Islamic civilization marked by intellectual curiosity, religious tolerance, and cultural exchange. By comparing and contrasting these two civilizations, we gain a deeper understanding of the diverse dynamics and complexities of the post-classical world....

Argumentative Essay : Loitering By Gang Members Essay

Loitering by gang members has long been a contentious issue in many communities, sparking debates about public safety, civil liberties, and law enforcement practices. While some argue that loitering laws unfairly target marginalized groups and infringe upon individual freedoms, others contend that these laws are necessary to deter criminal activity and maintain order in public spaces. This essay will explore both sides of the argument surrounding loitering by gang members and provide a nuanced analysis of the complexities involved. On one hand, proponents of loitering laws argue that they are essential tools for law enforcement to address potential gang-related activities and maintain public safety. Gangs often use public spaces as gathering spots to engage in illegal activities such as drug trafficking, vandalism, and violence. Loitering laws empower law enforcement officers to intervene and disperse groups that exhibit suspicious or threatening behavior, thus deterring criminal activity and preventing harm to residents and businesses in the community. Furthermore, supporters of loitering laws argue that they contribute to a sense of security and well-being among law-abiding citizens. When public spaces are free from the presence of intimidating or disruptive groups, individuals feel more comfortable using these spaces for recreational activities, socializing, and commuting. This, in turn, enhances community cohesion and fosters a positive environment for residents to live, work, and interact with one another without fear of intimidation or violence. On the other hand, opponents of loitering laws raise concerns about potential abuses of power by law enforcement and the disproportionate impact of these laws on marginalized communities, particularly people of color and low-income individuals. Critics argue that loitering laws are often used as pretexts for racial profiling and discriminatory practices, leading to harassment, unjust arrests, and infringements on civil liberties. Moreover, they contend that targeting loitering by gang members without addressing underlying social and economic factors perpetuates cycles of poverty, crime, and systemic inequality. Additionally, opponents of loitering laws highlight the importance of distinguishing between legitimate social gatherings and criminal behavior. Not all groups congregating in public spaces are engaged in illicit activities, and indiscriminate enforcement of loitering laws can create mistrust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Instead, they advocate for community-oriented approaches that address root causes of gang involvement, such as poverty alleviation, access to education and job opportunities, and youth empowerment programs. In conclusion, the debate over loitering by gang members is complex and multifaceted, touching on issues of public safety, civil liberties, racial justice, and community relations. While loitering laws can serve as valuable tools for law enforcement in combating criminal activity, their implementation must be balanced with considerations of fairness, accountability, and the broader social context. Finding solutions that address both public safety concerns and the underlying causes of gang involvement is crucial to creating safer, more inclusive communities for all residents....

• Cybersecurity and National Security
• Social Issues

Descriptive Essay : ' The Ghost ' Essay

Descriptive Essay: The Ghost In the quiet stillness of the old mansion, a presence lingers, unseen yet deeply felt. It is the ghost that haunts the halls, its ethereal presence casting a shadow over the ancient corridors. This specter, with its phantom form and mysterious aura, embodies the essence of the supernatural, captivating the imagination and sending shivers down the spine of all who encounter it. The ghost is said to wander the mansion at night, its footsteps echoing softly against the cold stone floors. Some claim to have glimpsed its translucent figure, drifting silently through the darkness like a wisp of smoke. Others speak of strange noises emanating from empty rooms, eerie whispers that seem to beckon from beyond the grave. Yet despite its eerie presence, the ghost is not malevolent but rather a melancholic spirit, forever bound to the place it once called home. Legend has it that the ghost is the restless soul of Lady Eleanor, the mansion's former mistress, who met a tragic end centuries ago. According to the tale, Lady Eleanor's heart was broken by a forbidden love, and in her despair, she took her own life, cursing herself to wander the halls of the mansion for all eternity. To this day, her ghost roams the corridors, searching in vain for the peace that eludes her. Encounters with the ghost are rare but unforgettable, leaving an indelible mark on those who dare to brave the darkness of the mansion's halls. Some visitors report feeling an inexplicable chill in the air, as if the very atmosphere is charged with the presence of the supernatural. Others claim to have seen flickering lights or heard disembodied voices, lending credence to the belief that the mansion is indeed haunted by forces beyond our understanding. In the end, whether the ghost is merely a figment of the imagination or a genuine spirit from beyond the grave remains a mystery. Yet for those who believe, the ghost serves as a reminder of the thin veil that separates the world of the living from the realm of the dead, a reminder that even in death, the past can never truly be laid to rest....

A Comparative Essay ' Yellow Wallpaper ' And Room19 Essay

"A Comparative Essay: Yellow Wallpaper and Room 19" Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper" and Doris Lessing's "To Room Nineteen" are two powerful works of literature that explore the theme of female oppression and the struggle for autonomy. Both stories depict women who are confined by societal expectations and patriarchal norms, leading to their mental and emotional breakdowns. While the settings and circumstances differ in each story, the central theme of female confinement and the quest for freedom are prevalent throughout. In "The Yellow Wallpaper," the protagonist is a woman who is confined to a room by her husband, who believes he knows what is best for her. As she becomes increasingly obsessed with the wallpaper in the room, she begins to see a woman trapped behind the pattern, symbolizing her own entrapment within the confines of her marriage and society's expectations. The story highlights the damaging effects of patriarchal control and the stifling of women's voices and agency. Similarly, in "To Room Nineteen," the protagonist Susan is a woman who appears to have it all - a successful career, a loving husband, and four children. However, she feels trapped and suffocated by the roles and expectations placed upon her by society. As she struggles to find meaning and fulfillment in her life, she retreats to Room Nineteen, where she can finally be alone and confront her inner turmoil. The story delves into the complexities of female identity and the pressures women face to conform to societal norms. Both stories highlight the psychological toll of female oppression and the consequences of denying women agency and autonomy. The protagonists in both stories ultimately experience a mental and emotional breakdown as a result of their confinement and suppression. Through their narratives, Gilman and Lessing shed light on the damaging effects of patriarchal control and the importance of women's autonomy and self-determination. In conclusion, "The Yellow Wallpaper" and "To Room Nineteen" are powerful works of literature that explore the theme of female oppression and the struggle for autonomy. Both stories depict women who are confined by societal expectations and patriarchal norms, leading to their mental and emotional breakdowns. Through their narratives, Gilman and Lessing highlight the damaging effects of patriarchal control and the importance of women's agency and autonomy in a male-dominated society....

• Human Rights
• Social Movements
• Social Inequality

Interpretive Essay : Art Museum Essay

Art museums serve as sanctuaries for creativity, where visitors can immerse themselves in the timeless beauty and profound meaning captured within the strokes of a brush or the chisel of a sculptor. As one steps into the hallowed halls of an art museum, they embark on a journey through the realms of human expression, where each artwork tells a unique story and invites interpretation. Exploring such a space is not merely an exercise in aesthetic appreciation but a profound engagement with history, culture, and the human condition. The first impression upon entering an art museum is often one of awe-inspiring grandeur. The architecture itself becomes a canvas, seamlessly blending the old and the new, providing a fitting backdrop for the masterpieces housed within. From classical columns to sleek, modernist designs, each museum offers a distinct atmosphere that sets the stage for the artistic pilgrimage ahead. As visitors traverse the labyrinthine corridors, they encounter a diverse array of artworks spanning centuries and continents. From the Renaissance masterpieces of Europe to the vibrant tapestries of Asia, each piece reflects the unique cultural milieu from which it emerged. Moreover, the arrangement of artworks within the museum is a carefully curated narrative, guiding the viewer through a chronological or thematic exploration of art history. Beyond mere visual aesthetics, art museums offer a space for contemplation and introspection. In front of a captivating painting or sculpture, viewers are encouraged to delve beneath the surface, pondering the artist's intentions and the broader socio-political context in which the artwork was created. This act of interpretation fosters a deeper understanding of both the artwork itself and the world from which it sprang forth. Moreover, art museums serve as forums for dialogue and exchange, where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together to share their interpretations and insights. Through guided tours, lectures, and interactive exhibits, visitors are invited to engage in meaningful discourse, challenging their preconceptions and expanding their horizons. In conclusion, art museums are not merely repositories of artistic treasures but vibrant hubs of cultural exchange and intellectual exploration. By providing a space for contemplation, interpretation, and dialogue, they enrich our lives and deepen our understanding of the human experience. As we navigate the labyrinth of galleries, we embark on a journey of discovery, connecting with the past, present, and future through the timeless language of art....

• Cultural Heritage and Preservation

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