Panchayati Raj is a system of local self-governance in India that operates at the village level. The term comes from Sanskrit words ‘Panch’ (meaning five) and ‘Ayat’ (meaning rule or governance). It refers to a council of elected members, called the Panchayat, which governs the affairs of a village or group of villages. The Panchayat handles local issues, development programs, and conflict resolution to address the community's needs.

Present Status

The current Panchayati Raj system is based on the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992. This amendment gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and established a three-tier structure:

1.Gram Panchayats at the village level

2.Panchayat Samitis at the block level

3.Zilla Parishads at the district level

Key Features of the 73rd Amendment

1.Regular Elections: Elections for PRIs are held every five years.