Previous Year Question
How many levels are there in the Panchayati Raj system of India?
Correct Answer: B
Detailed Solution
The general constitutional structure of Panchayati Raj in India is three-tiered. Under Article 243B(1) of the Constitution, Panchayats are to be constituted at three levels—
Village level — Gram Panchayat
Intermediate/Block level — Panchayat Samiti
District level — Zila Parishad
The official text of the Constitution expressly provides for Panchayats at the village, intermediate and district levels.
This structure received constitutional status through Part IX, inserted by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj also describes local self-government as creating a three-tier governmental structure in India.
Important fact: Article 243B(2) provides an exception. A State having a population not exceeding 20 lakh need not constitute Panchayats at the intermediate level. Therefore, three tiers represent the general constitutional model, but all three levels are not compulsory in every State.