Analyze the structure and functioning of the panchayat system in rural India. Evaluate the effectiveness of the panchayats in achieving the objectives of participatory democracy and rural development.

Analyze structure & functioning of panchayat system in rural India. Evaluate effectiveness of panchayats in achieving objectives of participatory democracy & rural development. Structure of Panchayat: (1) Village Level: Gram Panchayat GP: Village council with elected representatives. (2) Intermediate Level: Block Panchayat BP: Multiple GPs at block level. (3) District Level: Zilla Parishad ZP: Multiple BPs at district level. (4) State Level: Multiple ZPs at state level. (5) National Level: Multiple states at national level. Functioning: - Elected by adult franchise - Terms for 5 years - Reserved seats for SC/ST - Women representation: 33% reservation. Objectives of participatory democracy: - Direct involvement of people in decision making - Grassroots level democracy - Decentralized governance - Community participation Objectives of rural development: - Economic development - Social development - Cultural development - Environmental development Effectiveness Strengths: - Participatory approach to governance - Inclusive representation (SC/ST/Women) - Grassroots accountability - Community empowerment Ineffectiveness Weaknesses: - Lack of funds - Limited autonomy - Dependency on state - Weak institutional capacity - Low literacy levels - Caste-based discrimination - Gender-based discrimination - Corruption Economic Survey 2016-17 had observed Aid-cum [transfer of resources & development]. 15th FC aims to correct that by linking fund disbursement with Accountability. Despite state concerns this will help in comprehensive development.

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