The fundamental object of Panchayati Raj system is to ensure which among the following? 1. People's participation in development 2. Political accountability 3. Democratic decentralization 4. Financial mobilization Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
- (b) 2 and 4 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Why the answer is (c)
• Panchayati Raj, as envisaged by the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) and constitutionalised by the 73rd Amendment, aims at democratic decentralisation — devolving power to elected village, block and district bodies (3) — and at securing people's participation in planning and development (1).
• Political accountability (2) and financial mobilisation (4) may follow but are not its fundamental objects.
• Hence 1 and 3 only, option (c).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
- Political accountability is not the fundamental object.
- (b) 2 and 4 only
- Financial mobilisation is not the fundamental object.
- (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
- Items 2 and 4 are not fundamental objects.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2015, held on 23 August 2015. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.