Question

Which of the following powers and responsibility are delegated to Panchayats?
(A). to prepare plans and schemes for economic development
(B). to promote schemes that will enhance social justice
(C). to levy, collect and appropriate taxes, duties, tolls and fees
(D). to help in the devolution of governmental responsibilities especially that of finances to local authorities
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

When answering questions about Panchayati Raj, focus on the specific articles of the 73rd Amendment. Article 243G (Powers, authority and responsibilities of Panchayats) and Article 243H (Powers to impose taxes by, and Funds of, the Panchayats) are key. Distinguish between the functions of the Panchayat and the overall goals of the system.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Concept Identification:
The query concerns the specific authorities and duties granted to Panchayats by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992. These are detailed in Part IX of the Constitution.
Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
Evaluation of each assertion against constitutional provisions:
- (A) To formulate plans and programs for economic advancement: This is a fundamental Panchayat role as stipulated in Article 243G. State legislatures can empower Panchayats to function as self-governing bodies, including economic planning. This statement is accurate.
- (B) To advance initiatives promoting social justice: Article 243G also mandates this as a principal responsibility, encompassing the execution of social justice programs. This statement is accurate.
- (C) To impose, collect, and utilize taxes, duties, tolls, and fees: Article 243H grants state legislatures the authority to permit Panchayats to levy, collect, and appropriate these charges. This statement is accurate.
- (D) To facilitate the decentralization of governmental duties...: This statement articulates the objective or the principle of the Panchayati Raj system, not a direct power conferred upon a Panchayat. Panchayats are recipients of this decentralization, not the entities responsible for its execution. The state government and the State Finance Commission (under Article 243I) are responsible for this process. Consequently, this is not a direct power of the Panchayat itself.
Step 3: Conclusion:
The direct powers and responsibilities conferred upon Panchayats are (A), (B), and (C).