Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Sociology

Chapter

Social Change and Development in India: The Constitution and Social Change

Question:

Which of the following is an incorrect statement about Panchayati Raj?

Options:

Panchayati Raj translates to "Governance by five individuals"

At the base of the structure stands "Gram Sabha"

The 74th Amanedment provided a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj

Election to these bodies are conducted every five years.

Correct Answer:

The 74th Amanedment provided a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj

Explanation:

In 1992 grassroots democracy or decentralised governance was ushered in by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment. This act provided constitutional status to the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). Panchayati Raj translates literally to ‘Governance by five individuals’. It is compulsory now for local self-government bodies in rural and municipal areas to be elected every five years.  The 73rd Amendment provided a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj for all states having a population of over twenty lakhs.

The structure is like a pyramid. At the base of the structure stands the unit of democracy or Gram Sabha. This consists of the entire body of citizens in a village or grama. It is this general body that elects the local government and charges it with specific responsibilities. The Gram Sabhas ideally ought to provide an open forum for discussions and village-level development activities and play a crucial role in ensuring inclusion of the weaker sections in the decision-making processes.