SSC Selection Post - Higher Secondary Level - 2nd August 2025 - Shift 2

Correct Answer

Local self-governance at rural level

Explanation

Through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992), constitutional status was granted to the Panchayati Raj Institutions in India. The main objective of this Act was to strengthen local self-governance at the rural level and to take the roots of democracy to the grassroot level. Under this, a new Part IX (nine) and the 11th Schedule were added to the Constitution, which included 29 subjects for the functioning of Panchayats.

From this perspective, this Act was a historic legal reform towards decentralization of power and ensuring public participation in rural development.

Key Points

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 is related to the Panchayati Raj system.

It provides constitutional recognition to local self-governance at the rural level.

Through this, Part IX and the 11th Schedule were included in the Constitution.

This Act came into effect on April 24, 1993, which is why 'National Panchayati Raj Day' is celebrated every year on April 24.

Additional Facts

The Panchayati Raj system was made a three-tier system: Gram Panchayat (Gram level), Panchayat Samiti (Intermediate level), and Zila Parishad (District level).

Under this amendment, a provision was made to reserve at least one-third ($1/3$) of the seats for women in Panchayats.

Similarly, the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) was passed to grant constitutional status to urban local bodies (Municipalities).

Important Questions

Question: Which schedule was added to the Constitution by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment?

Answer: 11th Schedule.

Question: On which date is 'National Panchayati Raj Day' celebrated every year in India?

Answer: April 24.