CAPF AC 2020 Q74: Indian Polity – Local Government & Panchayati Raj
Which of the following is/are correct in relation to the Panchayats?
1. Only the Parliament may endow Panchayats with powers and authority
2. A state may devolve powers to Panchayats in preparation of plans for economic development and social justice
3. A state may devolve powers to Panchayats in implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 3
- (c) 2 and 3
- (d) 3 only
Answer: (c) 2 and 3
Explanation
Powers of Panchayats (Article 243G)
How to think: Panchayats are a State subject.
So it is the State Legislature, not Parliament, that gives them powers.
That makes statement 1 false.
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Only the Parliament may endow Panchayats with powers and authority | Incorrect | The Legislature of a State may do so by law |
| 2. A State may devolve powers in preparation of plans for economic development and social justice | Correct | Article 243G(a) |
| 3. A State may devolve powers in implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice | Correct | Article 243G(b) |
Facts to know:
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Amendment | 73rd Amendment, 1992 |
| Part | Part IX, Articles 243 to 243-O |
| Schedule | Eleventh Schedule with 29 subjects |
| In the State List | Local government is Entry 5 |
Answer: (c) 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 1 is wrong; the State Legislature, not Parliament, endows the powers.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 3 is right, but statement 1 on Parliament is wrong.
- (c) CORRECT. A State may devolve powers for both preparing plans and implementing schemes.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 3 is right, but statement 2 is right as well.
Key point
Article 243G: the State Legislature may endow Panchayats with powers to prepare plans and implement schemes for economic development and social justice, including the 29 subjects of the Eleventh Schedule.
Remember
Panchayat powers come from the State Legislature (Article 243G).
Common mistakes
- Thinking Parliament gives powers to Panchayats; local government is a State subject.
- Believing the transfer of powers is compulsory; the Article says a State may.
- Mixing up the Eleventh Schedule (Panchayats, 29) with the Twelfth (Municipalities, 18).
Exam tip
The word only in statement 1 is the trap. Once it falls, options (a) and (b) fall with it.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Article 243G and the Eleventh Schedule
- NCERT Class XI Political Science — Indian Constitution at Work (Local Governments)