Ashwini Goyal

Panchayati Raj System
The Panchayati Raj system is a three-tier system of local self-government in rural areas of India. It aims to promote democratic participation at the grassroots level and empower local communities.
Key Features
- Three-Tier Structure
- The system consists of three levels:
- Gram Panchayat (Village level)
- Pa... morenchayat Samiti (Block level)
- Zila Parishad (District level)
- Elected Representatives
- Members are elected by the local population, ensuring representation and accountability.
- Decentralization of Power
- Powers and responsibilities are distributed among various levels, allowing for better governance and local decision-making.
Functions of Panchayati Raj
- Developmental Activities
- Responsible for implementing government schemes related to rural development, agriculture, and health.
- Conflict Resolution
- Acts as a forum for resolving local disputes and grievances among community members.
- Resource Management
- Manages local resources such as water, land, and forests sustainably for community benefit.
Importance of Panchayati Raj
- Empowerment of Women
- Encourages women's participation by reserving seats for them in local bodies.
- Community Participation
- Promotes active involvement of citizens in governance, enhancing accountability and transparency.
- Local Needs Addressed
- Focuses on addressing the specific needs and priorities of the local population, leading to effective governance.
In conclusion, the Panchayati Raj system plays a crucial role in strengthening democracy and improving the quality of life in rural India by facilitating local governance and community participation.

Understanding the Physical Divisions of Mainland India
Mainland India can be divided into several physical divisions, each characterized by unique geographical features. The options provided include:

• Northern Plains
• Great Indian Desert
• Andaman Islands
• Peninsular Plateau

Explanation of the Physical Divisi... moreons
1. Northern Plains:
- This region consists of fertile alluvial plains formed by the rivers of the Himalayas.
- It is a significant agricultural area and includes states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
2. Great Indian Desert:
- Also known as the Thar Desert, this arid region is located in Rajasthan.
- It is characterized by sand dunes, sparse vegetation, and extreme temperatures.
3. Peninsular Plateau:
- This region is a tableland formed due to volcanic activity and is bordered by the Western and Eastern Ghats.
- It includes states such as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.
Why Andaman Islands Are NOT a Physical Division of Mainland India
- Geographical Location:
- The Andaman Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal and are not part of the mainland.
- They form a separate archipelago situated to the east of the Indian mainland.
- Physical Division Context:
- Physical divisions of India typically refer to regions that are connected to the continental landmass.
- Since the Andaman Islands are separated by water, they do not fit into this classification.
Conclusion
In summary, option 'C', the Andaman Islands, is not a physical division of mainland India, while the other options are integral parts of the country's geographical landscape.