Chhattisgarh polity Notes for State PSC Exams

Explore the political landscape of Chhattisgarh, detailing its governance structure, legislative framework, and key political developments. Learn about the state’s administrative divisions, major political parties, and influential leaders. Understand how Chhattisgarh’s polity shapes its policy-making and impacts its socio-economic progress.

 

  1. What is the structure of government in Chhattisgarh?

Chhattisgarh follows a parliamentary system of government, which is a part of the larger framework of the Indian political system. It has a unicameral legislature, consisting of:

  • Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha): This is the sole legislative body in the state, with a maximum strength of 90 members directly elected by the people.
  1. Who is the head of the state and the head of the government in Chhattisgarh?
  • The Governor is the constitutional head of the state, appointed by the President of India.
  • The Chief Minister is the head of the government, leading the Council of Ministers and responsible for the administration of the state.
  1. How many districts are there in Chhattisgarh?
  • As of 2024, Chhattisgarh has 33 districts.
  1. What are the main political parties in Chhattisgarh?
  • The major political parties in Chhattisgarh are:
    • Indian National Congress (INC)
    • Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
    • Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (JCC)
    • Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)
    • Gondwana Gantantra Party (GGP)
  1. What is the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in Chhattisgarh?
  • Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are the local self-government bodies in rural Chhattisgarh. They operate at three levels:
    • Gram Panchayat (village level)
    • Janpad Panchayat (block level)
    • Zila Panchayat (district level) PRIs play a crucial role in rural development, empowering local communities and ensuring their participation in decision-making processes.
  1. What are some important constitutional provisions related to Chhattisgarh?
  • The Chhattisgarh State Reorganization Act, 2000: This act led to the creation of Chhattisgarh as a separate state from Madhya Pradesh.
  • PESA Act, 1996: The Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act empowers tribal communities in Scheduled Areas to govern themselves through their traditional systems of governance.
  • The Chhattisgarh Lokayukta Act, 2002: This act established the Lokayukta, an anti-corruption ombudsman, to investigate complaints against public servants.
  1. What are some current political issues in Chhattisgarh?
  • Some of the current political issues in Chhattisgarh include:
    • Naxalite insurgency: The state government has been working to tackle the Naxalite insurgency, which has affected development in certain parts of the state.
    • Development of tribal areas: The state has a large tribal population, and the government is focused on improving their socio-economic conditions.
    • Agricultural issues: The state is working towards improving agricultural productivity and ensuring better incomes for farmers.
    • Industrial development and environmental concerns: Balancing industrial development with environmental protection is a key challenge for the state.
    • Political rivalry between INC and BJP: The two major political parties have been engaged in intense competition for power in the state.