Which of the following is/are probable cause(s) of the ineffectiveness of the PRIs in India?
- 1. The transfer of various governance functions—like the provision of education, health, sanitation and water—was not mandated by the 73rd Amendment Act.
- 2. Lack of finances for PRIs.
- 3. Despite there being mandatory provisions for reservations for women and SC/STs in the PRIs, there is hardly any representation of these vulnerable groups.
Select the correct option using the codes given below:
- A1, 2 and 3
- B1 and 2 only
- C2 and 3 only
- D1 only
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (b) 1 and 2 only
Explanation
Causes 1 and 2 are correct, and 3 is not.
- The 73rd Amendment listed 29 subjects in the Eleventh Schedule but left their transfer to the states. Many states have not handed over real functions, staff and funds.
- Lack of finances: most Panchayats have few revenues of their own and depend on state grants.
Statement 3 is wrong. Reservation of seats has brought large numbers of women and SC/ST members into Panchayats (women hold at least one-third of the seats, and 50% in many states, including Bihar). The problems are weak powers and proxy representation, not a lack of representation.