Question : Distribution of Functions among Various PRIs

(a) whether Panchayati Raj scheme is defective as the distribution of functions between the structures at different levels has not been made along scientific lines;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the blending of development and local self-Government functions has significantly curtailed the autonomy of the local self Government institutions;
(d) if so, the details thereof;
(e) whether the Government has any proposal to restructure the existing Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs); and
(f) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PANCHAYATI RAJ
(SHRI PARSHOTTAM RUPALA)

(a) & (b): Panchayats being ‘Local Bodies’ is a State subject mandated under Part IX and List II (State List) of Seventh Schedule (Article 246) of the Constitution of India. The Panchayati Raj system has been structured according to the relevant provisions in the Constitution. Article 243G of the Constitution allows discretion to the States in the matter of devolution of powers (Functions, Functionaries and Finances) to Panchayats including distribution of powers among the various tiers of Panchayats. Because of differential in the devolution/distribution of powers, the functioning of Panchayati Raj system varies from State to State.
(c) & (d): No. Article 243(G) of the Constitution mandates preparation and implementation of plans/schemes for economic development and social justice by Panchayats. Through this process, Panchayats are expected to evolve into institutions of local self-government. There is substantial devolution of funds exclusively to Gram Panchayats by the Fourteenth Finance Commission, which are to be utilized through preparation of Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) keeping in view the local felt needs. Thus GPDP provides an opportunity to vitalize Gram Panchayat, the most critical tier of Panchayati Raj system. It has also provided an opportunity for involvement of community in setting local developmental agenda and finding local solutions to development issues.

(e) : No.

(f) : In view of reply to part (e) above, does not arise.

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