Three Tier PR Structure — Set 13

Correct Answer: B. B. Karnataka

In Karnataka, the head (chairperson) of the Gram Panchayat is called Adhyaksha. Karnataka uses Adhyaksha for the head at all three levels: Gram Panchayat (Adhyaksha), Taluk Panchayat (Adhyaksha), and Zila Panchayat (Adhyaksha). This consistent naming across levels is unique to Karnataka. In Bihar, the head is called Mukhiya; in Maharashtra it is Sarpanch or President; in Rajasthan it is Sarpanch.

Correct Answer: B. B. Gram Panchayat (executive committee)

The Gram Panchayat (the elected executive committee headed by the Sarpanch/Mukhiya/Pradhan) is responsible for day-to-day administration of the village. While the Gram Sabha is the plenary body that makes major decisions, the Gram Panchayat executive handles ongoing administration including implementing schemes, maintaining records, collecting taxes, and managing village assets. The Gram Panchayat meets regularly and is accountable to the Gram Sabha for its decisions and actions.

Correct Answer: B. B. Gram Sabha is the plenary body; Gram Panchayat is the executive body accountable to it

The Gram Sabha is the plenary (general) body comprising all adult voters, while the Gram Panchayat is the executive body elected by the Gram Sabha's voters. The Gram Panchayat is accountable to the Gram Sabha for all its decisions, plans, and expenditures. The Gram Sabha approves the Gram Panchayat's annual plan and budget, and monitors implementation through Social Audits. The Gram Panchayat implements the decisions and resolutions of the Gram Sabha.

Correct Answer: B. B. Administration of tribal areas

The Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution deals with the administration and control of Scheduled Tribes in Scheduled Areas (tribal areas in mainland India). Areas covered under the Fifth Schedule are known as 'Scheduled Areas.' These areas have special governance provisions because tribal communities have distinct cultures and traditional governance systems. PESA Act 1996 was enacted to extend Panchayati Raj to these Fifth Schedule areas while respecting tribal customs and rights.

Correct Answer: B. B. Grants from central and state governments

For most Gram Panchayats in India, grants from central and state governments are the most important revenue source. Own-source revenue generation through local taxes and fees is very low for most Gram Panchayats. Finance Commission grants (from both central and state Finance Commissions) form a significant part of Panchayat income. MGNREGA funds, PM Awas Yojana, and other scheme funds also flow through Gram Panchayats. Building own-source revenue capacity is a key challenge for Panchayati Raj.

Correct Answer: B. B. Gram Panchayats and Common Service Centers

The Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana (AABY) for life insurance of rural landless households was implemented with Gram Panchayats playing a key role in identifying and enrolling beneficiaries. Gram Panchayats and Common Service Centers (CSCs) were the primary delivery channels. The scheme has since been merged with the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY). This shows how Gram Panchayats serve as last-mile delivery agents for government welfare schemes.

Correct Answer: A. A. e-Gram Swaraj and PFMS

Digital governance initiatives for Gram Panchayats include e-Gram Swaraj (for planning and accounting), PFMS (Public Financial Management System for fund tracking), Aadhaar-based authentication for service delivery, MGNREGA mobile monitoring apps, and the National Panchayat Portal. The e-Gram Swaraj platform integrates Gram Panchayat Development Plans with fund tracking and reporting. These digital initiatives aim to bring transparency, efficiency, and accountability to Panchayat operations.

Correct Answer: B. B. Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin

The Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G), launched on 2 October 2014, is the scheme under which individual household latrines (IHHL) or toilets are constructed in rural India. Gram Panchayats play a central role in implementation by identifying beneficiaries, ensuring quality construction, and promoting behavior change to use toilets. The mission aimed to make India open defecation free. Gram Panchayats receive funds for community sanitation complexes and solid waste management as well.

Correct Answer: B. B. Hyderabad

The National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) is located in Hyderabad, Telangana. It is an apex national-level institution under the Ministry of Rural Development for training, research, and consultancy in rural development and Panchayati Raj. NIRDPR trains officials, Panchayat representatives, and development practitioners from across India and other developing countries. It was formerly known as National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD) before adding Panchayati Raj to its name.

Correct Answer: B. B. Ranking and evaluating Panchayat performance

The Gram Panchayat Performance Assessment System (GPAS) is an initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj to rank and evaluate the performance of Gram Panchayats across India. The system assesses Panchayats on key indicators related to governance, delivery of services, financial management, and development outcomes. The assessment helps identify best practices and areas needing improvement. High-performing Panchayats are recognized through awards like the Panchayat Sashaktikaran Puraskar.