Who is known as the Architect of Panchayati Raj in India ?

The correct answer is - Balwantrai Mehta

Key Points

• Balwantrai Mehta is regarded as the Architect of Panchayati Raj in India due to his pivotal contributions in laying the foundation of the Panchayati Raj system.
• His recommendations were outlined in the Balwantrai Mehta Committee Report (1957), which emphasized the importance of decentralized governance and democratic institutions at the grassroots level.
• The report suggested the establishment of a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj, consisting of:
  • Gram Panchayat at the village level
  • Panchayat Samiti at the block level
  • Zila Parishad at the district level
• The system aimed at enabling local self-governance, with a focus on development planning and implementation at the grassroots.
• The first Panchayati Raj system in India was inaugurated on October 2, 1959, in Nagaur district, Rajasthan, based on the recommendations of the committee.

Additional Information

• Historical Background
  • The concept of local self-governance in India can be traced back to ancient times, with the presence of village assemblies or "Sabhas" in South India.
  • During British rule, Lord Ripon introduced local self-government reforms in 1882, often called the "Father of Local Self-Government in India."
• Other Related Committees
  • Ashok Mehta Committee (1977) recommended a two-tier system instead of the three-tier system.
  • 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992) provided constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions and introduced mandatory elections every 5 years.
• Key Features of the Panchayati Raj System
  • Empowers rural citizens through decentralized governance.
  • Focuses on inclusive development, involving marginalized groups like Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and women.
  • Enhances accountability and transparency in rural development.