Given below are two statements. One is labeled as Assertion (A) and the other as Reason (R):

Assertion (A): Panchayati Raj Institutions have a 3-tier system in planning and executing development projects within their jurisdictions.

Reason (R): Panchayati Raj Act empowered local bodies' participation in the planning process.

Select the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

• The Panchayati Raj system in India follows a 3-tier structure, which includes:

  1. Gram Panchayat (Village Level)
  2. Panchayat Samiti (Block Level)
  3. Zila Parishad (District Level)

• The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) established Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), granting them constitutional status and powers for decentralized planning and execution.

• The Panchayati Raj Act provides for local body participation in decision-making and development planning, making R a valid explanation of A.

Thus, both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) correctly explains (A)

Information Booster:

• Constitutional Status: Introduced by the 73rd Amendment Act (1992).
• Decentralization of Power: Empowers local governance in rural areas.
• Five-Year Plans: Local bodies actively participate in rural development programs.
• Finance and Functions: PRIs get funding from State Governments, Finance Commissions, and local taxes.