Q1. With reference to the evolution of Panchayati Raj in India, which of the following committees suggested that the Zila Parishad should be the executive body responsible for planning at the district level, departing from the “advisory” role suggested by previous committees?
A. Balwant Rai Mehta Committee
B. Ashok Mehta Committee
C. G V K Rao Committee
D. L M Singhvi Committee
Answer [B]
- Explanation:
- While the Balwant Rai Mehta committee suggested the Zila Parishad be advisory, the Ashok Mehta Committee (1977) recommended that the Zila Parishad should be the executive body and made responsible for planning at the district level.
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992:
- It is mandatory for all states to constitute a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj without exception.
- The Act provides for the reservation of not less than one-third of the total number of offices of chairpersons at all levels for women.
- The Act brought the Panchayati Raj institutions under the justiciable part of the Constitution.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer [B]
- Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect because states with a population below 20 lakhs are not required to constitute the intermediate level. Statements 2 and 3 are factual highlights of the 73rd Amendment mentioned in your text.
Q3. Under the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996, what is the primary objective of the legislation?
A. To replace traditional tribal customs with modern administrative laws.
B. To empower the District Collector to override tribal council decisions for development.
C. To provide self-rule for the tribal population and safeguard their traditions.
D. To ensure that higher-level Panchayats have supreme authority over Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas.
Answer [C]
- Explanation:
- PESA was enacted specifically to extend Part IX to Scheduled Areas while preserving and safeguarding the traditions and customs of tribal populations.
Q4. Regarding the disqualification of a member of a Panchayat, consider the following:
- A person can be disqualified if they have not attained the age of 25 years.
- All questions relating to disqualification shall be referred to the State Election Commission as the final authority.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer [D]
- Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect because the Act specifically states that no person shall be disqualified on the ground of age if they have attained 21 years. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Act says disqualification questions shall be referred to an authority determined by the state legislature, not necessarily the State Election Commission.
Q5. Which of the following areas are exempted from the application of Part IX of the Constitution unless specifically extended by Parliament?
- The state of Mizoram.
- The hill areas of Manipur for which district councils exist.
- The Scheduled Areas in the states.
How many of the above are correct :
A. One only
B. Two only
C. All Three
D. None
Answer [C]
- Explanation:
- According to Article 243M of the Indian Constitution, Part IX (The Panchayats) does not automatically apply to the States of Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Mizoram, the hill areas of Manipur for which District Councils exist, and the Scheduled Areas. All three options listed are exempted from Part IX, unless specifically extended by Parliament.
