In which year was 'Panchayati Raj' first set up?

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (B) 1959
Explanation:
→ Panchayati Raj was first set up in 1959 in the state of Rajasthan on the recommendations of the Balwantrai Mehta Committee (1957).
→ The system was introduced to promote democratic decentralization and enable people’s participation in local governance.
→ It established a three-tier structure: Gram Panchayat at the village level, Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and Zilla Parishad at the district level.
→ Later, the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions across India.
Information Booster:
→ First implemented in Rajasthan in 1959.
→ Based on Balwantrai Mehta Committee recommendations (1957).
→ Introduced to ensure decentralized and participatory governance.
→ Three-tier structure: Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zilla Parishad.
→ Aimed at planning and executing development programs at the local level.
→ 73rd Amendment (1992) later constitutionalized Panchayati Raj.
→ Promotes grassroots democracy and local self-governance.