In which article of the Indian Constitution Panchayati Raj is described?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is: (a) 40

Article 40 of the Indian Constitution falls under the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) and emphasizes the establishment of Panchayati Raj institutions. It directs the state to organize village panchayats and empower them to function as units of self-government.

Key Points:

• Article 40:
  • It states: “The State shall take steps to organize village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as units of self-government.”
  • This provision laid the groundwork for the decentralization of governance in India.

Implementation:

• The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions by adding Part IX and Schedule 11 to the Constitution.
• This amendment mandates the establishment of Panchayats at the village, intermediate, and district levels.

Additional Information:

• Article 45: Relates to the provision for free and compulsory education for children (now modified by the 86th Amendment).
• Article 36: Provides the definition of the term State for the purposes of DPSPs.
• Article 35: Relates to legislation required for giving effect to certain provisions of the Constitution.