Panchayati Raj is the system of rural local self-government in India. It allows people to take part in local administration and development. The system became constitutional through the 73rd Amendment Act, 1992, which is an important exam topic.
Background
The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) recommended a three-tier Panchayati Raj system. Rajasthan was the first state to set up Panchayati Raj in 1959, followed by Andhra Pradesh. The system was given constitutional status only in 1992.
73rd Amendment Act, 1992
- Added Part IX to the Constitution.
- Inserted Articles 243 to 243-O.
- Added the Eleventh Schedule with 29 subjects.
- Made the three-tier system mandatory in states.
- Provided reservation for SCs, STs and women.
Three-Tier Structure
- Gram Panchayat – at the village level.
- Panchayat Samiti – at the block or intermediate level.
- Zila Parishad – at the district level.
Key Features
Elections to panchayats are held every five years. Seats are reserved for women, with at least one-third reservation (raised to 50 per cent in many states). The State Election Commission conducts panchayat elections, and the State Finance Commission reviews their finances.
Quick Revision Points
- Constitutional status given by the 73rd Amendment, 1992.
- Added Part IX and the Eleventh Schedule.
- Eleventh Schedule has 29 subjects.
- Rajasthan was the first state to start Panchayati Raj (1959).
- Three tiers: Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zila Parishad.
- Term of office is 5 years.
- Based on the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee report.