05. Panchayati Raj Class 6 NCERT Notes Social Science Chapter 5 Civics

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Introduction to Panchayati Raj

The Evolution of “Panchayat“:

• The term “panchayat” derives from the assembly of five respected elders in the local community.
• This ancient system forms the basis of local governance in the Indian subcontinent.
• Panchayats are integral to the democratic government structure and facilitate decentralized administration.

Ward Members (Panch) and Gram Panchayat

Division into Wards:

• Village Panchayats are divided into smaller wards.
• Each ward elects a representative known as the Ward Member or Panch.
• The Gram Sabha also elects a Sarpanch, forming the Gram Panchayat.
• This elected body serves a five-year term.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• The Gram Panchayat includes Ward Panchs and the Sarpanch.
• The Gram Panchayat has a Secretary, responsible for meetings and records.
• The Secretary is appointed by the government, not elected.

The Significance of Gram Sabha

Convening the Gram Sabha:

• The Gram Sabha comprises all adults in the Panchayat’s jurisdiction.
• It acts as a forum for direct participation and interaction with elected representatives.
• Membership is open to those aged 18 or older with voting rights.

Key Functions:

• The Gram Sabha ensures accountability of the Gram Panchayat.
• It scrutinizes plans, prevents misuse of funds, and monitors representatives.
• A platform for discussion and decision-making at the grassroots level.

The Roles of Gram Panchayat

Developmental Initiatives:

• The Gram Panchayat implements development programs for its area.
• Its work must gain approval from the Gram Sabha.
• Committees, such as construction and development committees, aid in specific tasks.

Diverse Responsibilities:

1. Infrastructure development like water sources, roads, and schools.
2. Local tax collection and administration.
3. Execution of employment-related government schemes.

Funding the Panchayat

Sources of Funds:

1. Tax collection on properties and marketplaces.
2. Government funds through Janpad and Zila Panchayats.
3. Donations for community projects.

Three-tiered Panchayati Raj System

People’s Participation:

• The Panchayati Raj system engages citizens in governance.
• Panchs and the Gram Panchayat are accountable to the Gram Sabha.

Levels of Governance:

1. Gram Panchayat: Basic level of local government.
2. Janpad Panchayat: Block-level governance, overseeing multiple Gram Panchayats.
3. Zila Parishad: District-level planning and resource distribution.

Constitutional Variation:

• Each state has its own Panchayat laws within constitutional guidelines.

Keywords and Definitions

1. Panchayat: An assembly of local community elders, governing at the grassroots level.
2. Decentralization: Transfer of authority and decision-making from higher to lower levels of government.
3. Gram Sabha: A meeting of adults within a Panchayat’s jurisdiction for discussions and decision-making.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the origin of the term “panchayat”?

A: The term “panchayat” comes from an assembly of five wise and respected elders in the local community.

Q2: Who elects the representatives in the Gram Panchayat?

A: Representatives in the Gram Panchayat, including Ward Members and Sarpanch, are elected by the people of the Gram Sabha.

Q3: What is the role of the Gram Sabha?

A: The Gram Sabha plays a crucial role in holding the Gram Panchayat accountable, scrutinizing plans, and ensuring responsible governance.

Q4: What are the sources of funding for the Gram Panchayat?

A: The Gram Panchayat receives funds from sources such as property taxes, government schemes, and community donations.

Q5: How does the Panchayati Raj system function at different levels?

A: The Panchayati Raj system operates at the Gram Panchayat, Janpad Panchayat, and Zila Parishad levels, catering to local, block, and district governance, respectively.

Q6: What is the role of the Zila Parishad?

A: The Zila Parishad is responsible for district-level planning and overseeing the distribution of resources among Gram Panchayats.

Q7: Can the Gram Panchayat implement development programs independently?

A: The Gram Panchayat’s development initiatives need approval from the Gram Sabha, ensuring democratic decision-making.

Q8: How are representatives held accountable in the Panchayati Raj system?

A: The Gram Sabha and its direct engagement enable citizens to monitor and hold elected representatives accountable.

Q9: What is the significance of the Gram Sabha?

A: The Gram Sabha serves as a platform for direct participation, discussion, and monitoring of local governance.

Q10: Are Panchayat laws uniform across all states?

A: No, each state has its own Panchayat laws, tailored to its specific needs and within the framework of the Constitution.

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