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

Which of the following is NOT among the development activities of the…

Which of the following is NOT among the development activities of the Panchayats?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 2

The correct answer is Option (2) → Control of cattle pounds

Option (1) Construction of roads — A development activity. Construction of roads is the first of the development activities of the Panchayats.

Option (2) Control of cattle pounds — Not a development activity. Control of cattle pounds is one of the social welfare responsibilities of the Panchayats. It looks after village welfare and does not build anything new.

Option (3) Promotion of small cottage industries — A development activity. The Panchayats promote small cottage industries as part of their development work. This adds to income and work in the village.

Option (4) Construction of wells and tanks — A development activity. Construction of wells and tanks is a development activity of the Panchayats, along with roads and schools.

NCERT (2026-27): “Powers and Responsibilities of Panchayats …
to prepare plans and schemes for economic development to promote schemes that will enhance social justice to levy, collect and appropriate taxes, duties, tolls and fees help in the devolution of governmental responsibilities, especially that of finances to local authorities Social welfare responsibilities of the Panchayats include the maintenance of burning and burial grounds, recording statistics of births and deaths, establishment of child welfare and maternity centres, control of cattle pounds, propagation of family planning and promotion of agricultural activities. The development activities include the construction of roads, public buildings, wells, tanks and schools. They also promote small cottage industries and take care of minor irrigation works. …”