Panchayat in English
Panchayat is a term derived from the Sanskrit language, where "panch" means five and "ayat" means assembly or council. In English, it is often translated as "village council" or "local self-government."

Definition and Functions of Panchayat
Panchayat is a system of local self-government in rural areas of India. It is the lowest level of administration in the country and plays a crucial role in maintaining democratic governance at the grassroots level. Panchayats are responsible for the governance and development of villages and small towns.

Structure of Panchayat
Panchayats consist of elected representatives known as Panchayat members. The structure varies across states, but generally, there are three levels of Panchayats:
1. Gram Panchayat (Village Panchayat): It is the basic unit of Panchayati Raj and represents a single village or a group of villages.
2. Block Panchayat: It comprises several Gram Panchayats within a block or taluka.
3. District Panchayat: It is the highest level and oversees multiple Block Panchayats within a district.

Functions and Responsibilities
Panchayats have various functions and responsibilities, including:
1. Local Governance: Panchayats are responsible for the administration and governance of their respective areas. They make decisions related to local issues, such as infrastructure development, health, education, and sanitation.
2. Development Planning: Panchayats play a crucial role in the planning and implementation of development projects at the village level. They identify the needs of the community and allocate resources accordingly.
3. Social Welfare: Panchayats promote social welfare by addressing the needs of marginalized sections of society. They work towards the welfare of women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
4. Dispute Resolution: Panchayats act as forums for resolving minor disputes within the community. They provide a platform for mediation and reconciliation, reducing the burden on formal legal systems.
5. Revenue Collection: Panchayats collect revenues through various means, such as taxes, fees, and fines. The funds collected are used for local development and welfare activities.

Importance of Panchayat
Panchayats play a crucial role in decentralizing power and promoting grassroots democracy. They give rural communities a voice in decision-making processes and empower them to participate actively in local governance. Panchayats ensure accountability and transparency in the administration of rural areas. They provide an avenue for people to voice their concerns, seek redressal, and contribute to the development of their villages.

In conclusion, panchayat in English refers to a village council or local self-government. It is a system of rural administration that helps in decentralized governance and development planning at the grassroots level. Panchayats have elected representatives who oversee local governance, development projects, social welfare, dispute resolution, and revenue collection. They are vital in ensuring democratic participation, accountability, and empowerment of rural communities in India.

Panchayat is also known as "A village council".