Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Panchayati Raj, meaning ‘rule by the village council’, embodies the system of rural local self-government in India. While the concept dates back to ancient India, modern attempts at establishing PRIs began after independence. However, these early efforts lacked constitutional sanction and faced various challenges. The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, marked a watershed moment, providing a constitutional framework for PRIs and aiming to revitalize rural governance. This amendment fundamentally altered the structure of PRIs, moving them from being state-subject dependent entities to constitutionally recognized institutions with defined powers and responsibilities.
Pre-73rd Amendment Scenario: A Fragmented Landscape
Before 1992, the status of PRIs was largely dependent on the will of state governments. Several committees like the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1956) and the Ashok Mehta Committee (1978) recommended strengthening PRIs, but their recommendations weren’t uniformly implemented. Key issues included:
- Lack of Regular Elections: Elections were often delayed or not held at all.
- Limited Devolution of Powers: PRIs lacked sufficient financial and functional autonomy.
- Dominance of Bureaucracy: PRIs were often controlled by state-level bureaucrats.
- Social Inequalities: Existing structures often reinforced existing social hierarchies.
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992: A Transformative Step
The 73rd Amendment added Part IX to the Constitution, titled “The Panchayats,” and Schedule XI dealing with the powers, authority, and responsibilities of Panchayats. Key provisions include:
- Constitutional Recognition: PRIs were given constitutional status, making them institutions of self-government.
- Three-Tier System: The Act mandated a three-tier system of Panchayats at the village, intermediate (block/taluka), and district levels, except in states with a population below 20 lakh.
- Regular Elections: Elections to PRIs were to be held every five years.
- Reservation of Seats: Reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women (at least one-third of seats) was mandated.
- Devolution of Powers: State legislatures were directed to devolve powers and responsibilities upon the Panchayats, as specified in Schedule XI.
- State Finance Commission: The Act provided for the constitution of State Finance Commissions to review the financial position of Panchayats and make recommendations regarding their finances.
Changing Structure of Panchayati Raj Institutions
1. Composition and Structure
The 73rd Amendment led to a more representative structure of PRIs. The mandatory reservation for women and marginalized communities significantly increased their participation in local governance. The three-tier system ensured a wider reach of local governance to the grassroots level. However, the actual implementation of the three-tier system varies across states.
2. Functions and Responsibilities
Schedule XI of the Constitution lists 29 subjects that can be devolved to Panchayats. These include agriculture, land improvement, irrigation, water management, health and sanitation, education, social welfare, and poverty alleviation. The extent of devolution varies significantly across states. Some states have devolved more functions than others, leading to disparities in the effectiveness of PRIs.
3. Finance and Resource Mobilization
The 73rd Amendment emphasized the need for financial autonomy for PRIs. State Finance Commissions were established to recommend measures for strengthening the financial position of Panchayats. Sources of funding for PRIs include:
- State Government Grants: The primary source of funding.
- Taxes and Duties: PRIs can levy taxes on property, professions, and trades.
- Central Government Schemes: Funds are allocated through various centrally sponsored schemes.
- Own Funds: Revenue generated through user charges and other sources.
Despite these provisions, PRIs continue to face financial constraints, hindering their ability to effectively implement development programs.
4. Challenges and Issues
Despite the significant progress made since the 73rd Amendment, PRIs continue to face several challenges:
- Inadequate Devolution of Funds and Functions: Many states have been reluctant to fully devolve powers and resources to PRIs.
- Lack of Capacity Building: Elected representatives and officials often lack the necessary skills and training to effectively manage local governance.
- Political Interference: PRIs are often subject to political interference from state-level politicians and bureaucrats.
- Social Inequalities: Despite reservation, marginalized communities often face barriers to effective participation in PRIs.
- Superimposition of Central Schemes: Focus on centrally sponsored schemes sometimes overshadows locally identified needs.
| Feature | Pre-73rd Amendment | Post-73rd Amendment |
|---|---|---|
| Constitutional Status | No constitutional recognition | Constitutional recognition (Part IX) |
| Regularity of Elections | Irregular, often delayed | Mandatory every 5 years |
| Reservation | Limited or no reservation | Mandatory reservation for SCs, STs, and women |
| Financial Autonomy | Limited financial powers | Emphasis on financial devolution through State Finance Commissions |
Conclusion
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, undeniably revolutionized the structure of Panchayati Raj Institutions in India. It provided a constitutional framework, ensured regular elections, and promoted inclusive representation. However, realizing the full potential of PRIs requires addressing the persistent challenges related to financial devolution, capacity building, and political interference. Strengthening PRIs is crucial for achieving truly decentralized and participatory governance, fostering sustainable rural development, and empowering local communities. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adaptive policy-making are essential to ensure the long-term success of Panchayati Raj.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.