by Q. Consider the following statements:
UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2025 – General Studies Paper I
Which of the statements given above are not correct?
(a) I and II only
(b) II and III only
(c) I and III only
(d) I, II and III
Answer: (d) I, II and III
Explanation:
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 introduced the Panchayati Raj system in India. It added Part IX – “The Panchayats” to the Constitution, covering Articles 243 to 243O.
Statement 1 — Incorrect: While the Act provides for a three-tier Panchayati Raj system (village, intermediate, district), states with a population below 20 lakh are not required to have the intermediate level. Currently, Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Sikkim, and Union Territories like Lakshadweep, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu follow a two-tier system, while the rest of India has a three-tier system.
Statement 2 — Incorrect: Article 243F deals with disqualifications for Panchayat membership. The minimum age to become a member of a Panchayat is 21 years.
Statement 3 — Incorrect: Article 243I provides for the creation of a State Finance Commission every five years by the Governor. The Commission reviews the financial position of Panchayats and makes recommendations on:
Sharing of taxes, duties, tolls, and fees between the State and Panchayats.
Taxes, duties, tolls, and fees that can be assigned to Panchayats.
Grants-in-aid to Panchayats from the State’s Consolidated Fund.
Measures to improve the financial position of Panchayats.
Answer: (d) I, II and III
