Which of the following Statements is not power and responsibility delegated to the Panchayats?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → To make sure that endogamy is practiced amongst rural youth
Option (1) To prepare plans and schemes for economic development — A power of the Panchayats (Incorrect). Panchayats were given the power to prepare plans and schemes for economic development.
Option (2) To promote schemes that will enhance social justice — A power of the Panchayats (Incorrect). They are to promote schemes that will enhance social justice, so that weaker sections share in development.
Option (3) To levy, collect and appropriate taxes, duties, tolls and fees — A power of the Panchayats (Incorrect). To function as institutions of self-government they need money, so they may levy, collect and appropriate taxes, duties, tolls and fees.
Option (4) To make sure that endogamy is practiced amongst rural youth — Not a power of the Panchayats (Correct). Endogamy means marriage only within one’s own caste group, a rule of the caste system. A constitutional body meant to promote social justice has no role in enforcing caste rules of marriage.
Note: The chapter ‘The Story of Indian Democracy’ of the pre-rationalised NCERT, the textbook of 2022, has been renamed ‘The Constitution and Social Change’ in the NCERT book (2025-26). Its section on the powers and responsibilities of Panchayats is still there.
NCERT (2025-26): “Powers and Responsibilities of Panchayats … According to the Constitution, Panchayats should be given powers and authority to function as institutions of self-government. It, thus, requires all state governments to revitalise local representative institutions. The following powers and responsibility were delegated to the Panchayats:
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