Question

Define panchayati raj.

Answer 1

In India, the system of local self-government known as Panchayati Raj exists. In Hindi, the phrase "Panchayati Raj" literally translates as "rule by five elders" and describes a form of government wherein rural communities are governed by local village councils or panchayats. In 1959, India implemented the Panchayati Raj system, as suggested by the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee. Subsequently, the system was incorporated into the Indian Constitution and has experienced multiple modifications throughout time.

Every village is divided into smaller administrative units called wards under the Panchayati Raj system, and a Panchayat member represents each ward. The villagers themselves choose the members of the Panchayat, who are in charge of a variety of duties like overseeing neighbourhood infrastructure, making sure that everyone has access to necessities like water and sanitary facilities, and encouraging local economic growth.