Q1. Which Schedule of the Constitution lists the functions of Panchayats?
- Ninth Schedule
- Tenth Schedule
- Eleventh Schedule
- Twelfth Schedule
Correct Option: 3. Eleventh Schedule.
Explanation: The Eleventh Schedule contains 29 functional areas for Panchayats such as agriculture, rural development, and health. The Eleventh Schedule was added by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 and lists 29 functional areas over which Panchayats may have jurisdiction and responsibilities. These areas are meant to guide the devolution of powers and responsibilities from the state governments to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to promote grassroots governance.
🧾 Significance:
-Provides a framework for functional devolution.
-Encourages local planning and execution of development projects.
-Empowers Panchayats as institutions of self-government under Article 243-G.
Q2. Which of the following is NOT a reason for the poor performance of PRIs?
- Excessive devolution of funds
- Bureaucratic control
- Tied nature of funds
- Weak internal resource generation
Correct Option: 1. Excessive devolution of funds.
Explanation: The problem is actually lack of adequate devolution of funds, not excess.
Q3. According to PESA, who must approve development plans before Panchayat implementation?
- District Magistrate
- Chief Minister
- Gram Sabha
- State Assembly
Correct Option: 3. Gram Sabha.
Explanation: PESA mandates Gram Sabha approval of plans before implementation in Scheduled Areas.
Q4. Which of the following is a voluntary provision under the 73rd Amendment?
- Direct elections to Panchayats
- Reservation for SCs and STs
- One-third reservation for women
- Reservation for Backward Classes
Correct Option: 4. Reservation for Backward Classes.
Explanation: It is optional for states to provide reservation for OBCs in Panchayats.
Q5. What proportion of Chairperson seats in Scheduled Areas must be reserved for STs under PESA?
- One-third
- One-half
- Two-thirds
- All
Correct Option: 4. All.
Explanation: PESA mandates that all Chairperson positions in Panchayats in Scheduled Areas be reserved for STs.