CBSE Class 6 Political Science Notes Chapter 5 Panchayat Raj

Important Questions for CBSE Class 6 Political Science Notes Chapter 5 Panchayat Raj

Q.1. What is a Gram Sabha? Write a short note on it.

Ans: A Gram Sabha is a meeting of all adults living in the area covered by a Panchayat, which may include one or several villages. Any adult aged 18 or older with voting rights is a member. The Gram Sabha plays a vital role in local governance, as it allows community members to participate in decision-making processes. Meetings are usually led by the Panchayat President, or Sarpanch, and involve discussions on plans and development programs proposed by the Gram Panchayat. The Gram Sabha holds the Panchayat accountable, ensuring transparency and responsibility in governance.

Q.2. In the meeting of the Gram Sabha so far, what are the problems that are being discussed? What sort of solutions are being suggested?

Ans: In recent meetings of the Gram Sabha, several issues have been discussed, such as lack of clean drinking water, poor road conditions, and inadequate school facilities. To address these problems, community members have suggested various solutions, including:

• Water Supply Projects : Proposing the construction of water pipelines or wells to ensure access to clean drinking water.
• Road Improvement Plans : Requesting funds for repairing and maintaining village roads.
• School Infrastructure : Advocating for the construction of new classrooms or the renovation of existing school buildings.

Q.3. Was there a problem with the BPL list that the Gram Sabha was finalizing? What was this problem?

Ans: Yes, there was a problem with the Below Poverty Line (BPL) list that the Gram Sabha was finalizing. Many residents raised concerns that the list contained inaccuracies, with some deserving families excluded while others who did not meet the criteria were included. This issue created tension among community members, as it could affect access to government assistance and resources. The Gram Sabha discussed the need for a thorough review of the list, suggesting that a committee be formed to verify the information and ensure fairness.

Q.4. How can the Gram Sabha prevent the Panchayat from doing what it likes?

Ans: The Gram Sabha can prevent the Panchayat from acting unilaterally by exercising its oversight functions. Here are a few ways it can do this:

• Accountability : The Gram Sabha has the power to question the decisions and actions of the Gram Panchayat, ensuring that they align with community needs.
• Transparency : By reviewing financial records and project plans, the Gram Sabha can ensure that funds are used appropriately and that projects benefit the community.
• Collective Decision-Making : Since all members have a say, the Gram Sabha can influence decisions through collective discussions, making it difficult for the Panchayat to act against the community’s interests.
• Community Mobilization : If the Panchayat tries to misuse power, the Gram Sabha can mobilize community members to voice their concerns publicly, pressuring the Panchayat to act responsibly.

Q.5. What is the work of a Gram Panchayat?

Ans: The work of a Gram Panchayat includes several key responsibilities aimed at local development and governance:

1. Infrastructure Development : Constructing and maintaining essential facilities such as roads, drainage systems, schools, and water sources. This ensures that the community has access to basic services.
2. Tax Collection : The Gram Panchayat is responsible for levying and collecting local taxes, which are essential for funding community projects and services.
3. Implementation of Government Schemes : Executing various government programs aimed at promoting employment, health, and education within the village. This helps improve the overall well-being of residents.
4. Community Engagement : The Gram Panchayat engages with the community to gather input and address concerns, ensuring that development aligns with the needs of the residents.
5. Monitoring and Accountability : The Panchayat is accountable to the Gram Sabha, which monitors its activities and decisions, fostering transparency and responsible governance.

Benefits of CBSE Class 6 Political Science Notes Chapter 5 Panchayat Raj

• Understanding Local Governance : These notes provide students with a clear understanding of how local governance works in rural areas through the Panchayati Raj system, making complex concepts accessible.
• Encouraging Participation : By learning about the Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat, students appreciate the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes and how their voices can influence local governance.
• Promoting Awareness of Rights : The notes help students understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens, particularly in relation to local governance and community issues.
• Highlighting Development Roles : Students learn about the various development initiatives and responsibilities of the Gram Panchayat, fostering an appreciation for community development and resource management.
• Building Critical Thinking : By discussing challenges faced by Panchayati Raj institutions, students develop critical thinking skills as they explore potential solutions and engage in discussions about governance.
• Foundation for Future Studies : These notes lay a strong foundation for further studies in political science and social studies, equipping students with essential knowledge for higher education.