The story of Sukhipur and Dhukipur was told to rural women through a 'phad'. Which message did the campaign most importantly convey?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → It is not enough merely to cast a ballot, contest or win elections
Option (1) Elected local bodies are given control of local resources — Incorrect. Handing powers and finances to local bodies is part of what Panchayats receive under Panchayati Raj. The phad campaign spoke to voters about how and why to choose a leader.
Option (2) It is not enough merely to cast a ballot, contest or win elections — Correct. The phad story of the sad and the happy village showed that it is not enough merely to vote, stand for election or win. Voters must also know why they choose a person and what that person stands for.
Option (3) Posts in panchayats are reserved for women — Incorrect. Reservation of seats for women is a rule of the 73rd Amendment. The story did show two women Pradhans, but its main message was about informed voting and honest leaders.
Option (4) Elections to panchayats must be held at regular intervals — Incorrect. Regular elections are part of the Panchayati Raj system. The campaign took elections as given and stressed choosing the right person, with integrity.
NCERT (2026-27): “Panchayati Raj in Tribal Areas … “… This innovative method of story telling was very effective in bringing awareness to unlettered women. Most importantly the campaign conveyed the message, that it was not enough to merely vote, or to stand for election, or to win. But important to know why is one voting for a particular person, what are the traits to look for, and what does he or she stand for .The value for integrity is also emphasised through the story and song media of the ‘phad’.” |