EVOLUTION OF PANCHAYAT RAJ SYSTEM IN INDIA

The evolution of the Panchayati Raj system in India is marked by several milestones and legislative developments aimed at promoting local self-governance and decentralization of power. The journey has witnessed constitutional amendments, committee reports, and state-level initiatives.

Pre-Independence Era:

1. Historical Roots:
   • The concept of local self-governance has historical roots in traditional village councils known as Panchayats, which played a role in local dispute resolution and administration.

Post-Independence Era:

1. Balwantrai Mehta Committee (1957):
   • The idea of Panchayati Raj was formally recognized with the appointment of the Balwantrai Mehta Committee in 1957.
   • The committee recommended the establishment of democratic Panchayati Raj institutions at the village, block, and district levels.
2. Ashok Mehta Committee (1977):
   • The Ashok Mehta Committee was appointed in 1977 to review the functioning of Panchayati Raj institutions.
   • It recommended a two-tier system of Panchayati Raj with elected representatives at the village and district levels.

Constitutional Amendments:

1. 73rd Amendment Act (1992):
   • The Panchayati Raj system gained constitutional status with the passage of the 73rd Amendment Act in 1992.
   • This amendment added Part IX to the Constitution, which provides for Panchayats at the village, intermediate, and district levels.
2. Salient Features of the 73rd Amendment:
   • The amendment mandated the establishment of a three-tier system of Panchayats.
   • It included provisions for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women.
   • It granted constitutional status to the Gram Sabha, which was empowered to participate in decision-making at the village level.
3. Eleventh Schedule:
   • The Eleventh Schedule was added to the Constitution, listing 29 subjects over which Panchayats have the power to legislate.
4. State Legislation:
   • States were required to enact legislation to devolve powers to Panchayats and implement the constitutional provisions.

74th Amendment Act (1992):

1. Urban Local Bodies:
   • The 74th Amendment Act, passed in conjunction with the 73rd Amendment, provided constitutional status to Urban Local Bodies (Municipalities).
   • It added Part IX-A to the Constitution, outlining provisions for Municipalities.

Subsequent Developments:

1. National Common Minimum Programme (NCMP) – 2004:
   • The NCMP highlighted the need for further strengthening Panchayati Raj institutions, including increasing financial devolution.
2. Fourteenth Finance Commission (2015):
   • The Fourteenth Finance Commission recommended a higher devolution of funds to states, with a significant portion allocated to local bodies, including Panchayats.
3. Rural Development Schemes:
   • Panchayats have played a crucial role in the implementation of various rural development schemes, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Ongoing Challenges and Reforms:

1. Capacity Building:
   • Ongoing efforts focus on capacity building for Panchayat members to enhance their governance skills and decision-making abilities.
2. Financial Autonomy:
   • Ensuring financial autonomy for Panchayats remains a challenge, and efforts continue to increase the devolution of funds to local bodies.
3. Participation of Marginalized Groups:
   • Efforts are made to enhance the participation of women, Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Panchayati Raj institutions.
4. Inclusive Governance:
   • Emphasis is placed on making Panchayats more inclusive, responsive, and accountable in addressing the needs of local communities.

The evolution of the Panchayati Raj system in India reflects a commitment to decentralization, local self-governance, and community empowerment. Legislative amendments and ongoing reforms aim to address challenges and strengthen the role of Panchayats in the democratic governance of rural areas.