Question 59 from UPSC CSE 2015 - Polity

Question

The fundamental object of Panchayati Raj system is to ensure which among the following?
1. People's participation in development
2. Political accountability
3. Democratic decentralization
4. Financial mobilization
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. 1 and 3 only

Strategy: Select statements that define the fundamental objectives of Panchayati Raj, prioritizing democratic decentralization and people's participation while excluding secondary outcomes like political accountability and financial mobilization.

Key Info: **Key Details**

The Panchayati Raj system, constitutionalized through the 73rd Amendment Act, 1992, establishes a three-tier structure of local self-government in rural India. Its primary objectives include:

- **Democratic Decentralization**: The system embodies decentralization of authority, empowering local bodies to make decisions for their constituency. Article 40 (Directive Principles) and Part IX of the Constitution underpin this.
- **People's Participation in Development**: Panchayats provide a platform for grassroots involvement in decision-making, ensuring that development plans reflect local needs and priorities.
- **Political Accountability**: While accountability is enhanced through electoral and participatory mechanisms, it is a consequence rather than the fundamental aim.
- **Financial Mobilization**: Panchayats have power to levy and collect local taxes, but financial mobilization is an enabling function, not the primary goal.

Key Institutions: Gram Panchayat (village level), Panchayat Samiti (block level), and Zila Parishad (district level). The 11th Schedule enumerates 29 subjects transferable to Panchayats, and State Finance Commissions recommend fiscal devolution.

The essence of Panchayati Raj is participatory democracy and local self-governance, aligning with Gandhian ideals and recommendations of various committees (e.g., Balwant Rai Mehta Committee, Ashok Mehta Committee).

Answer

Option A: 1, 2, and 3 only

Answer

Option B: 2 and 4 only

Answer

Option D: 1, 2, 3, and 4

The fundamental object of Panchayati Raj system is to ensure which among the following? People's participation in development Political accountability Democratic decentralization Financial mobilization Select the correct answer using the code given below.

The fundamental object of Panchayati Raj system is to ensure which among the following?

People's participation in development

Political accountability

Democratic decentralization

Financial mobilization
Select the correct answer using the code given below.