Panchayati Raj – Class 6 Civics Questions and Answers
Introduction: Panchayati Raj is one of the most important topics in Class 6 Civics. It explains how villages in India are governed at the grassroots level and how democracy works directly among people. Here you will find well-structured, exam-oriented questions and answers for Panchayati Raj with detailed explanations. This is designed for both quick revision and deep understanding, ensuring you can score well in school tests and competitive exams.
Short Answer Questions
Q1: What is Panchayati Raj?
Answer: Panchayati Raj is a system of rural local self-government in India. It is a three-tier structure consisting of the Gram Panchayat at the village level, the Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and the Zila Parishad at the district level. It allows villagers to directly participate in decision-making and development of their area.
Q2: Name the three levels of the Panchayati Raj system.
Answer: The three levels are: 1. Gram Panchayat (village level) 2. Panchayat Samiti (block level) 3. Zila Parishad (district level)
Q3: Who is the head of the Gram Panchayat?
Answer: The head of the Gram Panchayat is called the Sarpanch, who is elected by the members of the Gram Sabha.
Q4: What is a Gram Sabha?
Answer: Gram Sabha is the meeting of all adult residents (above 18 years) of a village. It is the general body that discusses and approves the work plans, budgets, and development schemes for the village.
Q5: Mention one key function of the Gram Panchayat.
Answer: One key function of the Gram Panchayat is to maintain basic amenities in the village, such as drinking water, sanitation, and street lighting.
Long Answer Questions
Q6: Explain the importance of Panchayati Raj in rural development.
Answer: Panchayati Raj plays a crucial role in rural development by:
- Ensuring local participation in decision-making.
- Identifying and addressing the immediate needs of the village.
- Implementing government schemes effectively.
- Promoting social justice and equality.
- Creating transparency in the use of public funds.
Q7: How are Gram Panchayat members elected?
Answer: Members of the Gram Panchayat, including the Sarpanch, are elected directly by the adult residents of the village through secret ballot. The elections are usually held every five years. This democratic process ensures fair representation of all sections of the village, including women and marginalized groups.
Q8: Differentiate between Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat.
Answer:
| Gram Sabha | Gram Panchayat |
|---|---|
| It is a meeting of all adult villagers. | It is an elected body of representatives. |
| It approves plans and budgets. | It implements plans and policies. |
| It meets at least twice a year. | It functions regularly to carry out developmental work. |
Q9: Describe the functions of the Panchayat Samiti.
Answer: The Panchayat Samiti operates at the block level and coordinates activities of various Gram Panchayats under its jurisdiction. Its functions include:
- Implementing development programs in agriculture, health, and education.
- Supervising village-level projects.
- Managing block-level resources and funds.
Higher-Order Thinking Questions
Q10: Why is the participation of women in Panchayati Raj important?
Answer: Participation of women ensures that issues affecting them—such as health care, sanitation, education for girls, and safety—are addressed effectively. Reservation of seats for women in Panchayati Raj has led to more inclusive decision-making and greater attention to social welfare programs.
Q11: How does Panchayati Raj promote democracy at the grassroots level?
Answer: Panchayati Raj promotes grassroots democracy by allowing people to directly voice their needs and concerns in the Gram Sabha, elect their representatives, and hold them accountable. It ensures that governance is not only for the people but also by the people at the local level.
Extra Practice Questions
- What is the tenure of the Gram Panchayat?
- Write two sources of income for a Gram Panchayat.
- Explain the role of Zila Parishad in rural governance.
- How does the Gram Panchayat ensure transparency in its functioning?
- Why is the Gram Sabha considered the foundation of Panchayati Raj?
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