The powers, authority, and responsibilities of Gram Sabhas and Panchayats are outlined in the Indian Constitution under Part IX (Articles 243 to 243O) and further elaborated upon in various state laws and rules.
- Gram Sabha Powers and Functions:
- The Gram Sabha is entrusted with several powers and responsibilities, including:
- Electing members of the Gram Panchayat.
- Approving plans, programs, and budgets of the Gram Panchayat.
- Identifying beneficiaries for various government schemes and programs.
- Overseeing and monitoring the implementation of development projects in the village.
- Discussing and resolving disputes and issues related to village development and administration.
- Participating in the planning and execution of local development schemes.
- The Gram Sabha is entrusted with several powers and responsibilities, including:
- Powers, Authority, and Responsibilities of Panchayats:
- Panchayats, including Gram Panchayats, have been granted significant powers and responsibilities under the Constitution, as outlined in Articles 243G to 243O. Some of these powers and functions include:
- Preparation of plans for economic development and social justice.
- Implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice.
- Collection of taxes, duties, tolls, and fees as assigned by the state legislature.
- Control over the implementation of various centrally and state-sponsored schemes.
- Development of infrastructure, including roads, water supply, sanitation facilities, etc.
- Promotion of education, health, and sanitation within their jurisdiction.
- Ensuring social justice, particularly through the empowerment of marginalized sections of society.
- Coordination with other levels of government for effective implementation of policies and programs.
- Panchayats, including Gram Panchayats, have been granted significant powers and responsibilities under the Constitution, as outlined in Articles 243G to 243O. Some of these powers and functions include:
- Articles related to Powers and Functions:
- Article 243G: It provides for the powers, authority, and responsibilities of Panchayats with respect to the preparation of plans for economic development and social justice.
- Article 243H: It deals with the powers and authority to impose taxes, duties, tolls, and fees by Panchayats.
- Article 243I: It outlines the powers and responsibilities of Panchayats in relation to implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice.
- Article 243ZD: It empowers the Panchayats to prepare plans for economic development and social justice as per the guidelines and instructions of the state government.
These provisions aim to empower local self-government institutions, promote decentralization, and ensure grassroots-level participation in the democratic process of governance.
