Part IX & IXA - Panchayats & Municipalities • Article

Article 243G Simplified: Powers, authority and responsibilities of Panchayats

Article 243G empowers state legislatures to devolve powers, authority, and responsibilities to Panchayats. This enables them to function as institutions of self-government, prepare plans for economic development and social justice, and implement schemes covering the 29 subjects listed in the Eleventh Schedule.

Official Text

Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the Legislature of a State may, by law, endow the Panchayats with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as institutions of self-government and such law may contain provisions for the devolution of powers and responsibilities upon Panchayats at the appropriate level, subject to such conditions as may be specified therein, with respect to— (a) the preparation of plans for economic development and social justice; (b) the implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice as may be entrusted to them including those in relation to the matters listed in the Eleventh Schedule.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

This rule allows states to give village councils the power and money to build schools, fix roads, and help poor families. It lists 29 different subjects they can manage.

Student Mode

Article 243G forms the bedrock of democratic decentralization. It enables state legislatures to devolve powers, authority, and responsibilities to Panchayats to function as institutions of local self-government. This includes the preparation of plans for economic development and social justice, and the implementation of schemes in relation to the 29 matters listed in the Eleventh Schedule.

Example

Using the authority of Article 243G, a state government transfers control of local primary schools, water supply systems, and road maintenance (all items on the Eleventh Schedule) to the Panchayats, allowing villagers to manage their own public services.

Key Takeaway

Article 243G enables the devolution of administrative and financial powers to Panchayats to implement local development projects under the Eleventh Schedule.

FAQs

What is the role of the Eleventh Schedule under Article 243G?

The Eleventh Schedule lists 29 functional items (like agriculture, drinking water, roads, education, and health) that state legislatures can devolve to Panchayats.

Does the Constitution automatically grant powers to Panchayats under Article 243G?

No, the Constitution leaves it to the discretion of the respective State Legislature to pass laws delegating specific powers and authority.

What are the two core objectives of Panchayat devolution mentioned in Article 243G?

The two core objectives are (1) economic development and (2) social justice.

Quiz

How many functional items are listed in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution under Article 243G?

Answer: 29 items

The devolution of powers to Panchayats under Article 243G is intended to enable them to function as:

Answer: Institutions of local self-government