Panchayati Raj Institutions in India [NET Political Science Notes]

Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are a vital component of India’s governance framework, enabling local self-government in rural areas. The system promotes grassroots democracy and empowers communities to participate in their governance. Established under the 73rd Amendment Act of 1992, PRIs aim to decentralise power and enhance local decision-making.

Introduction to Panchayati Raj

Panchayati Raj refers to a system of local self-governance in rural India. It is rooted in the Constitution of India under Article 40 of the Directive Principles of State Policy. The 73rd Amendment Act, enacted in 1992, granted constitutional status to PRIs, ensuring their recognition and functionality across states.

Structure of Panchayati Raj

The Panchayati Raj system is structured into three tiers:

1. Gram Panchayat: The lowest tier, functioning at the village level.
2. Panchayat Samiti: Operates at the block level, coordinating between multiple Gram Panchayats.
3. Zila Parishad: The highest tier, functioning at the district level.

Each tier has a defined composition:

• Gram Panchayat: Comprised of elected members from the village, headed by a Sarpanch.
• Panchayat Samiti: Formed by elected representatives from various Gram Panchayats, led by a Pramukh.
• Zila Parishad: Consists of elected members from Panchayat Samitis, with a Chairperson at the helm.

Functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions

PRIs perform various functions essential for local governance:

• Legislative Functions: Enact local laws and regulations.
• Executive Functions: Implement development programmes and schemes.
• Judicial Functions: Settle disputes at the village level.
• Social Functions: Promote social welfare and community development.

Powers and Responsibilities

PRIs are endowed with powers:

Financial Powers

• Collect local taxes and fees.
• Allocate funds for development projects.

Administrative Powers

• Supervise local government officials.
• Implement government schemes at the grassroots level.

Elections and Representation

Elections for PRIs are conducted by the State Election Commission. The representation framework includes:

• Reservation of Seats: 33% reservation for women, with some states increasing it to 50%.
• Reservation for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) based on population ratios.

Role in Development

PRIs play important role in rural development:

• Rural Development: Implement schemes like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
• Empowerment of Women: Increase participation of women in decision-making processes.
• Community Participation: Encourage local involvement in governance and development activities.

Challenges Faced

Despite their significance, PRIs encounter several challenges:

• Financial Constraints: Limited resources and dependence on state funds hinder effective functioning.
• Capacity Building: There is a need for training and skill development of elected representatives.
• Political Interference: Local elites and political parties often exert undue influence.
• Awareness and Participation: Low public awareness about rights and responsibilities limits engagement.

Recent Developments

In recent years, several initiatives have been introduced to strengthen PRIs:

• Digital Initiatives: Technology is being used to enhance transparency and efficiency in governance.
• Strengthening of Gram Sabhas: Efforts are underway to empower village assemblies for better governance.
• Decentralisation Efforts: A push for more autonomy and powers for local bodies is ongoing.