Panchayati Raj is the tier of the third government.

Panchayati Raj is a system of local self-government in rural areas of India. It is a three-tier system, consisting of the village level, block level, and district level. Each tier has its own set of elected representatives who are responsible for decision-making and governance at their respective levels.

The three tiers of Panchayati Raj are:

1. Village Panchayat: The village panchayat is the lowest and the primary tier of Panchayati Raj. It is responsible for the administration of a village or a group of villages. The village panchayat consists of elected representatives known as Panchayat members who are elected by the villagers. The head of the village panchayat is called the Sarpanch.

2. Block Panchayat: The block panchayat is the second tier of Panchayati Raj. It represents a group of villages within a specified geographical area known as a block. The block panchayat consists of elected representatives from each village panchayat within the block. The head of the block panchayat is called the Pradhan.

3. District Panchayat: The district panchayat is the highest and the third tier of Panchayati Raj. It represents a district and consists of elected representatives from each block panchayat within the district. The head of the district panchayat is called the Zilla Parishad Chairman.

Importance of Panchayati Raj:

1. Decentralization of Power: Panchayati Raj system decentralizes power and brings decision-making closer to the people at the grassroots level. It allows for local issues to be addressed effectively and efficiently.

2. Empowerment of Rural Areas: Panchayati Raj empowers the rural areas by giving them the authority to make decisions on matters such as infrastructure development, education, health, and social welfare.

3. Participation and Representation: Panchayati Raj ensures the participation of people in the decision-making process. It provides a platform for elected representatives to voice the concerns and aspirations of their respective communities.

4. Accountability and Transparency: Panchayati Raj promotes accountability and transparency in governance. The elected representatives are accountable to the people who have elected them and are required to provide regular updates on their activities and decisions.

In conclusion, Panchayati Raj is the tier of the third government. It is a system of local self-government that aims to decentralize power, empower rural areas, and promote participation and representation at the grassroots level.