Which was the first state of India to
introduce the Panchayati Raj?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Rajasthan.

The Panchayati Raj system was first introduced in India in the state of Rajasthan on October 2, 1959, at Nagaur district. This initiative was a part of India's efforts to establish decentralized governance and empower local self-government institutions.

Key Details:
Inauguration:
The system was inaugurated by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in Nagaur, Rajasthan.

Significance:

• Marked the beginning of institutionalized local self-governance in India.
• Aimed to promote grassroots democracy and rural development.

Balwantrai Mehta Committee:
The Panchayati Raj system was introduced based on the recommendations of the Balwantrai Mehta Committee (1957).
The committee suggested a three-tier structure:

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

Other Options:
Gujarat:

• Introduced the Panchayati Raj system shortly after Rajasthan, in 1960.

Madhya Pradesh:

• Implemented Panchayati Raj later but has one of the most extensive systems today.

Tamil Nadu:

• Known for its progressive implementation of Panchayati Raj, particularly after the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992).

Additional Information:
The Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are decentralized governance systems at the rural level in India. They form the backbone of grassroots democracy, enabling local self-governance and decision-making for rural development. PRIs were institutionalized through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, which provided a robust framework for their establishment and functioning.

Constitutional Framework:
73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992:

• Added Part IX (Articles 243–243O) to the Constitution.
• Added the 11th Schedule, listing 29 functional areas under the jurisdiction of PRIs.