Introduction

• A Panchayat in India is a significant institution that empowers local self-governance at the grassroots level.
• Enshrined in the Constitution of India, this decentralized system aims to promote democratic principles, social justice, and equitable development by involving citizens in decision-making processes.
• The term "Panchayati Raj" literally translates to "rule of the village council" in Sanskrit, reflecting its roots in traditional village governance structures.

What is the Journey of Panchayats in India?

• Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957):
  • The Panchayati Raj system was first recommended by the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee in 1957.
  • It emphasized the establishment of a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj institutions at the Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and Zila Parishads.
• Ashok Mehta Committee (1977):
  • Recommended a two-tier system of Panchayati Raj, eliminating the intermediary tier at the block level.
  • It stressed the decentralization of powers and functions to strengthen local self-governance and recommended the constitution of Gram Panchayats and Zila Parishads.
• Constitutional Amendment:
  • The 73^rd Amendment Act of 1992 was enacted which provided constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions.
  • It established a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj at the village, intermediate (block), and district levels.
  • 73^rd Amendment provided reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women in Panchayati Raj institutions.
  • It brought formation of State Election Commissions to conduct regular elections.
  • It led to devolution of powers and responsibilities to Panchayats and Municipalities.

What is the Major Provision of Constitution of India, 1950 Regarding Panchayats?

• Directive Principles of State Policy:
  • Article 40: It states that 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 local self-government.
• Part IX – Panchayats:
  • Article 243: Definitions
    • This article defines District, Gram Sabha, Intermediate Level, Panchayat, Panchayat Area, Population and Village.
  • Article 243A: Gram Sabha
    • It states that a Gram Sabha may exercise such powers and perform such functions at the village level as the Legislature of a State may, by law, provide.
  • Article 243B – 243O: Panchayat
    • These articles provide for the establishment and composition of Panchayats at the village, intermediate, and district levels.
    • They outline the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women in Panchayats. These articles also detail the powers, authority, and responsibilities of Panchayats.

What is the Constitution of Panchayat?

• Constitution of Panchayats is mentioned under Article 243B of the Constitution of India, 1950.
• There shall be constituted in every State, Panchayats at the village, intermediate and district levels in accordance with the provisions of this Part.
• Notwithstanding anything in the aforementioned clause, Panchayats at the intermediate level may not be constituted in a State having a population not exceeding twenty lakhs.

What are the Functions of Panchayats?

• Local Planning and Development:
  • Panchayats are responsible for formulating and implementing plans for economic development and social justice at the local level.
  • This includes planning for agriculture, infrastructure, health, education, and poverty alleviation.
• Resource Mobilization:
  • Panchayats have the power to mobilize resources through taxes, fees, and grants.
  • This financial autonomy empowers them to undertake local development projects and address the specific needs of their communities.
• Social Justice:
  • Panchayats play a crucial role in promoting social justice by addressing issues related to land distribution, poverty alleviation, and the welfare of marginalized communities.
  • Reservations for SCs, STs, and women in Panchayat elections aim to ensure their representation and participation in decision-making.
• Dispute Resolution:
  • Panchayats act as local dispute resolution forums, helping to settle conflicts and maintain social harmony within the community.
• Implementation of Government Programs:
  • Panchayats are instrumental in the effective implementation of government programs and schemes at the grassroots level. They serve as a bridge between the government and the local population.

What are the Impacts of Panchayat on Democracy?

• Local Empowerment:
  • Panchayati Raj empowers local communities by giving them a say in decision-making processes.
  • This enhances the accountability of elected representatives to the people they serve.
• Social Inclusion:
  • Reservations for marginalized communities in Panchayat elections contribute to social inclusion and representation.
  • It provides a platform for historically disadvantaged groups to actively participate in governance.
• Rural Development:
  • Panchayats play a pivotal role in planning and implementing rural development initiatives, addressing the specific needs of villages and fostering local economic growth.
• Democratic Values:
  • The Panchayati Raj System promotes democratic values at the grassroots level, instilling a sense of civic responsibility and participation among citizens.
• Conflict Resolution:
  • By acting as local dispute resolution forums, Panchayats contribute to maintaining social harmony and resolving conflicts within communities.