Local Governance
Through Panchayati Raj:
Understanding the
Three-Tier System
Explore the intricacies of the three-tier system of Panchayati Raj and
delve into the roles and impact of the Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti,
and Zila Parishad in local governance.
by BHIS School Development
Three-Tier System of Panchayati Raj
1 Gram Panchayat
The first tier of Panchayati Raj, Gram Panchayat, is responsible for the administration
and governance of villages and rural areas.
2 Panchayat Samiti
The second tier, Panchayat Samiti, oversees a group of Gram Panchayats and
coordinates development activities at the block level.
3 Zila Parishad
The top tier, Zila Parishad, is responsible for governing an entire district and acts as an
intermediary between the state government and local bodies.
Roles and Functions of Gram Panchayat
Village Administration Infrastructure Development
Gram Panchayats handle various administrative They play a crucial role in the development and
functions such as maintaining records, issuing maintenance of physical infrastructure like
certificates, and resolving local disputes. roads, water supply, and sanitation facilities.
Roles and Functions of Panchayat Samiti
Planning and Development Resource Allocation
Panchayat Samiti plans and executes They allocate resources, manage funds, and
development programs, prioritizing projects supervise the implementation of government
and ensuring the welfare of the local community. schemes within their jurisdiction.
Roles and Functions of Zila Parishad
1 District Planning 2 Coordination with 3 Resource
State Government Mobilization
Zila Parishad formulates
district-level plans to They act as a liaison They mobilize resources
address the specific between the state from various sources to
needs and challenges of government and local implement development
the region. bodies, advocating for projects at the district
the interests of the level.
district.
Impact of Gram Panchayat on Local
Governance
1 Improved Local Decision-Making
Empowering Gram Panchayats leads to more inclusive and participatory decision-
making, addressing the needs of the local community.
2 Enhanced Service Delivery
With the Gram Panchayat at the forefront, essential services like healthcare, education,
and sanitation can be efficiently provided to the rural population.
3 Socio-Economic Development
Gram Panchayats drive socio-economic development by promoting livelihood
opportunities, skill development, and entrepreneurship in rural areas.
Impact of Panchayat Samiti on Local
Governance
Effective Decision-Making Strengthened Grassroots Democracy
Panchayat Samiti facilitates collaborative By empowering local leaders, Panchayat Samiti
decision-making among representatives, strengthens grassroots democracy and
ensuring the effective utilization of resources for encourages citizen participation in governance.
community development.
Impact of Zila Parishad on Local
Governance
Integrated Development Policy Formulation
Zila Parishad plays a pivotal role in They contribute to policy formulation at the
coordinating and integrating various district level, aligning government policies
development initiatives across the district for with the specific needs and challenges of the
holistic progress. region.
