How many subjects that are directly related to the functioning of Gram Panchayats have been listed under the 11th Schedule of the Indian Constitution?

The correct answer is 29.

Key Points

• The 11th Schedule of the Indian Constitution was added by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act in 1992.
• It contains a list of 29 subjects that are directly related to the functioning of Gram Panchayats.
• These subjects include agriculture, land improvement, minor irrigation, animal husbandry, fisheries, social forestry, and rural housing, among others.
• The inclusion of these subjects aims to empower Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) by devolving greater authority and responsibilities for effective local governance.
• The 11th Schedule is crucial for the decentralization of power to the grassroots level, ensuring that local issues are addressed efficiently by local self-governments.

Additional Information

• 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act:
  • It was passed in 1992 and came into effect on 24th April 1993.
  • This act provided a constitutional status to the Panchayati Raj institutions in India.
  • It aimed at decentralization and local self-governance in rural areas.
  • The Act mandates the establishment of Panchayats at the village, intermediate, and district levels.
• Gram Panchayat:
  • It is the basic unit of local self-government in India.
  • Comprises elected representatives from the village.
  • Responsible for local administration and development activities in the village.
  • It is headed by a Sarpanch.
• Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs):
  • They are the cornerstone of local self-governance in India.
  • PRIs include Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and Zilla Parishads.
  • They work to implement development programs and schemes in rural areas.
  • The 73rd Amendment Act provided constitutional status to these institutions.
• Devolution of Powers:
  • It refers to the transfer of powers from the central government to local governments.
  • Aimed at enhancing the efficiency and responsiveness of local governance.
  • Key for empowering local bodies like Panchayats to handle local issues.
  • Includes administrative, financial, and legislative powers.