What is the Gram Sabha in the context of the Panchayati Raj system in India?

The correct answer is The deliberative assembly of all eligible village residents.

Key Points

• Gram Sabha refers to the assembly of all eligible voters in a village-level administrative unit within the Panchayati Raj system in India.
• It serves as a primary democratic institution, where decisions regarding village development, welfare activities, and local governance are deliberated upon.
• The Gram Sabha is responsible for approving the annual budget and development plans prepared by the Gram Panchayat.
• It ensures transparency and accountability in the functioning of the Gram Panchayat by allowing villagers to question and scrutinize its activities.
• As per Article 243A of the Indian Constitution, every Gram Sabha is a statutory body functioning at the village level.

Additional Information

• Panchayati Raj System:
  • It is a decentralized form of governance in India, introduced through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992.
  • It consists of three tiers: Gram Panchayat (village level), Panchayat Samiti (block level), and Zilla Parishad (district level).
  • The system aims to empower rural areas and ensure participatory democracy.
• Article 243:
  • Articles 243 to 243-O in the Indian Constitution deal with the Panchayati Raj institutions.
  • These articles provide the framework for the composition, powers, and functions of Panchayati Raj bodies.
• Role of Gram Sabha:
  • It acts as a watchdog over the Gram Panchayat, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  • The Gram Sabha can approve or reject plans, schemes, and budgets proposed by the Gram Panchayat.
  • It provides a platform for villagers to voice their concerns and actively participate in governance.
• Importance of Gram Sabha:
  • Promotes direct democracy at the grassroots level.
  • Encourages participation from marginalized and underprivileged sections of society.
  • Acts as a medium for collective decision-making on local issues.