Q1. Which of the following is a compulsory provision under the 73rd Amendment Act, 1992?
- Reservation for Backward Classes
- Establishment of State Election Commission
- Powers to levy and collect taxes
- Representation of MPs/MLAs in Panchayats
Correct Option: 2. Establishment of State Election Commission.
Explanation: It’s mandatory for every state to establish a State Election Commission to conduct Panchayat elections. Reservation for Backward Classes and MPs/MLAs’ representation are voluntary.
Q2. Which Article of the Constitution provides for the creation of a State Finance Commission?
- Article 280
- Article 370
- Article 243-G
- Article 243-I
Correct Option: 4. Article 243-I.
Explanation: Article 243-I mandates the constitution of a State Finance Commission every 5 years to review Panchayat finances.
Q3. Which of the following is a feature of the PESA Act, 1996?
- Abolition of Panchayats in Scheduled Areas
- Restricting the role of Gram Sabha
- Alignment with customary law
- Gram Sabha replaced by Tribal Council
Correct Option: 3. Alignment with customary law.
Explanation: PESA requires state laws to be in consonance with customary laws, traditions, and practices of tribal communities in Scheduled Areas.
Q4. What is the minimum age to contest Panchayat elections as per the 73rd Amendment?
- 18 years
- 21 years
- 25 years
- 30 years
Correct Option: 2. 21 years.
Explanation: The minimum age to contest Panchayat elections is 21 years, as per the mandatory provisions.
Q5. Which level of Panchayats generally has the most taxing powers?
- Village Panchayats
- Intermediate Panchayats
- District Panchayats
- Zonal Councils
Correct Option: 1. Village Panchayats.
Explanation: Most taxation powers (e.g., house tax, license fees) are assigned to village-level Panchayats.