NCERT Class 6 Social Science Chapter 11
Grassroots Democracy — Part 2: Local Government in Rural Areas
This chapter focuses on Panchayati Raj, the three-tier system of local self-governance in rural India established by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment in 1992. Students learn about the structure, powers, functions, and elections of Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, and Zila Parishad. The chapter emphasizes how rural local bodies empower communities to manage their own development.
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Key Terms
- Gram Panchayat
- The lowest tier of the Panchayati Raj system, functioning at the village level, consisting of elected representatives called Panchs and headed by a Sarpanch.
- Gram Sabha
- The assembly of all adult voters of a village, which is the foundational unit of democracy in rural India, meeting periodically to approve plans and accounts of the Gram Panchayat.
- Sarpanch
- The elected head of the Gram Panchayat, who chairs meetings and represents the village in official matters. Also called Pradhan in some states.
- Panchayat Samiti
- The intermediate tier of Panchayati Raj functioning at the block or taluk level, coordinating the work of several Gram Panchayats.
- Zila Parishad
- The highest tier of the Panchayati Raj system functioning at the district level, overseeing development activities for the entire district.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three tiers of Panchayati Raj?▾
The three tiers of Panchayati Raj are: Gram Panchayat at the village level, Panchayat Samiti at the block/intermediate level, and Zila Parishad at the district level. This three-tier structure was established by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment in 1992.
What is the difference between Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat?▾
Gram Sabha consists of all adult voters registered in the village electoral roll and is the general body. Gram Panchayat is the executive committee of elected representatives that manages village affairs. The Gram Panchayat is accountable to the Gram Sabha and must present its plans and accounts to it.
What functions does a Gram Panchayat perform?▾
A Gram Panchayat performs functions including maintaining village roads, drains, and streetlights; managing drinking water supply; overseeing primary education and health facilities; implementing government schemes; maintaining records of births and deaths; and collecting local taxes.
What is reservation in Panchayati Raj elections?▾
The 73rd Amendment mandated reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes proportional to their population, and one-third of all seats (including Sarpanch positions) for women. This ensures representation of marginalized groups in local governance.
How are Gram Panchayat members elected?▾
Gram Panchayat members (Panchs) are directly elected by adult voters of the village every five years. The Sarpanch may be directly elected by voters or elected by the Panchs, depending on the state. Elections are conducted by the State Election Commission.
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