Structure of the Three-Tier System of Panchayati Raj Institution

The three-tier system of Panchayati Raj Institution is a decentralized system of governance in India that involves local self-governance at the village level. It aims to empower rural communities and promote participatory democracy. The three tiers of the system are:

1. Gram Sabha:
- The Gram Sabha is the basic unit of the Panchayati Raj system.
- It consists of all the adult members registered in the electoral rolls of a village.
- The Gram Sabha meets at least twice a year to discuss and decide on various issues related to the village.
- It elects the members of the Gram Panchayat and approves the annual budget and development plans of the village.

2. Gram Panchayat:
- The Gram Panchayat is the elected body at the village level.
- It consists of representatives elected by the members of the Gram Sabha.
- The number of members in a Gram Panchayat depends on the population of the village.
- The Gram Panchayat is responsible for implementing various rural development programs and providing basic services to the village.
- It prepares and implements plans for the development of the village, maintains records, and collects taxes and fees.

3. Panchayat Samiti:
- The Panchayat Samiti is the intermediate tier between the Gram Panchayat and the Zila Parishad.
- It consists of representatives elected by the members of the Gram Panchayats.
- The number of members in a Panchayat Samiti depends on the number of Gram Panchayats in the block.
- The Panchayat Samiti coordinates and supervises the functioning of the Gram Panchayats in the block.
- It approves the annual budgets of the Gram Panchayats and provides technical guidance and support to them.

4. Zila Parishad:
- The Zila Parishad is the highest tier of the Panchayati Raj system at the district level.
- It consists of representatives elected by the members of the Panchayat Samitis.
- The number of members in a Zila Parishad depends on the population and area of the district.
- The Zila Parishad is responsible for overall planning and development of the district.
- It coordinates the activities of the Panchayat Samitis, approves their budgets, and provides financial and administrative support to them.

Overall, the three-tier system of Panchayati Raj Institution ensures effective local governance and empowers rural communities by giving them a voice in decision-making processes. It promotes participatory democracy, decentralization of power, and local development.