PR Committees & Balwantrai — Set 1

Correct Answer: A. Cash leases, share-cropping leases, and tenant leases

The correct answer is Cash leases, share-cropping leases, and tenant leases. Agricultural leases include cash leases, share-cropping, and tenant leases. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Usually 1-5 years, renewable or fixed terms

The correct answer is Usually 1-5 years, renewable or fixed terms. Agricultural leases typically run for 1-5 years with renewal options. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Cultivate the land, pay rent, and maintain property

The correct answer is Cultivate the land, pay rent, and maintain property. Tenants must cultivate the land, pay rent, and maintain property. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. By mutual agreement, government notification, or agricultural value

The correct answer is By mutual agreement, government notification, or agricultural value. Rent is fixed through mutual agreement or government-regulated rates. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Security of tenure, fair rent, and rights to improvements

The correct answer is Security of tenure, fair rent, and rights to improvements. Tenant laws protect security, rent fixation, and improvement rights. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: B. Constitutional status and judicial support for PRIs

The L.M. Singhvi Committee (1986) recommended granting constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions, establishing Nyaya Panchayats for dispute resolution, and ensuring independent finances. The committee's recommendation for constitutional status was implemented through the 73rd Amendment in 1992. It also recommended that village panchayats be given more financial powers and Gram Sabhas be strengthened.

Correct Answer: B. Revitalizing PRIs and making them effective development agencies

The G.V.K. Rao Committee (1985) was appointed to review Panchayati Raj institutions in the context of rural development and poverty alleviation. The committee found that PRIs had become ineffective 'grass without roots.' It recommended revitalizing PRIs, transferring more functions and funds, regular elections, and making the DM the principal coordinator at district level.

Correct Answer: B. Recommended democratic decentralization through three-tier PRIs

The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) made a landmark recommendation of democratic decentralization through a three-tier Panchayati Raj system. The committee recommended Gram Panchayat at village level, Panchayat Samiti at block level, and Zila Parishad at district level with Panchayat Samiti as the pivotal unit. This recommendation shaped India's rural governance for decades.

Correct Answer: B. Ashok Mehta Committee

The Ashok Mehta Committee (1977-78) recommended direct elections to PRIs with political party participation. This was a departure from the earlier approach of non-partisan local elections. The committee also recommended two-tier structure, regular elections, reservation for SC/ST, transfer of planning and implementation of development programs to PRIs, and financial devolution.

Correct Answer: B. State Election Commission

Under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment (Article 243-K), a State Election Commission is responsible for superintendence, direction, and control of preparation of electoral rolls and conduct of elections to Panchayats. The State Election Commissioner is appointed by the Governor and can only be removed like a High Court judge. This ensures independence of the State Election Commission.