What is the Panchayati Raj?
The Panchayati Raj is a system of local self-government in rural India. The word ‘Panchayat’ refers to a village council. This system brings governance closer to the people, allowing them to participate actively in decision-making processes.
Tip
Definition: Panchayati Raj is a form of self-government where local people play a vital role in addressing local issues, promoting development, and ensuring government schemes reach the grassroots level.
The Three-Tier System
The Panchayati Raj system is organized into three levels, forming a pyramid structure. This is often referred to as the Three-Tier System.
Visualizing the Structure
The following diagram illustrates the hierarchy of the Panchayati Raj institutions, from the village level at the bottom to the district level at the top.
Roles of the Three Tiers
Together, these institutions cover almost all aspects of life in the district:
- Agriculture & Housing
- Road Maintenance
- Water Resource Management
- Education & Health Care
- Social Welfare & Cultural Activities
The system works from the bottom up, meaning the foundation is the village.