Panchayati Raj: Decentralized Governance in India
Panchayati Raj: Decentralized Governance in India
Panchayati Raj is a decentralized system of governance in India, established to empower local self-government at the grassroots level. It plays a vital role in rural development and involves the participation of people in decision-making. The system operates under the framework of the Constitution of India, particularly following the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, which provided it constitutional status.
Historical Background
- Ancient Period: The concept of village-level governance has existed in India since ancient times, with village panchayats playing a crucial role in managing local affairs.
- British Era: The system weakened during British rule, as centralized administration became dominant.
- Post-Independence: Efforts to revive the Panchayat system began with the recommendations of the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957), which introduced the concept of a three-tier structure of Panchayati Raj.
Structure of Panchayati Raj
Panchayati Raj operates on a three-tier structure in most states, while some have a two-tier system due to specific conditions.
Gram Panchayat (Village Level)
- Composition: Elected representatives from the village.
- Head: Sarpanch (elected by the villagers).
- Functions:
- Implementing government schemes.
- Maintaining village infrastructure (roads, water supply, sanitation).
- Managing local resources like grazing land and water bodies.
Panchayat Samiti (Block Level)
- Composition: Representatives from the Gram Panchayats within the block.
- Head: Elected Chairperson.
- Functions:
- Coordinating activities of Gram Panchayats.
- Planning and implementation of development programs like health, education, and agriculture.
Zila Parishad (District Level)
- Composition: Members elected from the Panchayat Samitis in the district.
- Head: Elected Chairperson.
- Functions:
- Formulating district-wide development plans.
- Supervising and coordinating the functioning of Panchayat Samitis and Gram Panchayats.
- Implementing large-scale rural development projects.
Salient Features of the 73rd Amendment Act
- Constitutional Provisions:
- Added Part IX and Schedule XI to the Constitution.
- Empowered Panchayats to perform functions related to 29 subjects (e.g., agriculture, health, education).
- Mandatory Elections:
- Regular elections every five years for all levels of Panchayati Raj.
- Reservation of Seats:
- Seats reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women (at least 33%).
- State Election Commission (SEC):
- Established to conduct free and fair elections.
- State Finance Commission:
- Set up to recommend financial allocations to Panchayats.
- Gram Sabha:
- *Direct participation of villagers in governance.*
- Responsible for approving the annual budget and developmental plans of the Gram Panchayat.
Significance of Panchayati Raj
- Decentralized Governance:
- Promotes democratic participation and empowers citizens.
- Efficient Administration:
- Local issues are addressed more effectively as governance is closer to the people.
- Socio-Economic Development:
- Plays a critical role in implementing rural development programs like MGNREGA, housing schemes, and sanitation drives.
- Empowerment of Women:
- Reserved seats for women have increased their active participation in governance.