SSC CPO 2025 PYQ — Question 54

Answer: 73rd Amendment

Explanation:

• Constitutional status was granted to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) through the 73rd Amendment Act of the Indian Constitution, 1992. This amendment added a new Part IX and the 11th Schedule to the Constitution. Its primary objective was to strengthen local self-government in rural India and to extend democracy to the grassroots level. This Act came into force on April 24, 1993; consequently, 'National Panchayati Raj Day' is celebrated every year on April 24.

Additional Points:

• Three-tier Structure: This amendment made a mandatory provision for a three-tier structure at the village level (Gram Panchayat), intermediate level (Panchayat Samiti), and district level (Zila Parishad).
• Reservation: At least one-third (33%) of the seats in Panchayats were reserved for women. Additionally, reservations were provided for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in proportion to their population.
• State Election Commission: A provision was made for the constitution of a State Election Commission in each state to ensure regular elections for the Panchayats.

Potential Questions and Answers:

Question: When is National Panchayati Raj Day celebrated in India?
Answer: April 24.

Question: Which Schedule was added to the Constitution by the 73rd Amendment?
Answer: The 11th Schedule (which comprises 29 subjects).

Question: Which committee first recommended the Panchayati Raj system in India?
Answer: The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957).