The correct answer is: d) Gram Sabha
The Gram Sabha is the grassroots level of the Panchayati Raj system in Mizoram. It is a body of all the adult members of a village or a group of villages. The Gram Sabha is the highest decision-making body in the Panchayati Raj system. It is responsible for planning and implementing development programmes in the village.
The Gram Sabha meets at least once in a quarter. The meeting is presided over by the Sarpanch of the village. The Gram Sabha can discuss any matter relating to the village and can make recommendations to the Panchayat. The Panchayat is bound to consider the recommendations of the Gram Sabha and take action on them.
The Gram Sabha is a powerful institution of local self-government. It has the potential to bring about a significant improvement in the lives of the people in the villages.
The other options are incorrect because:
- a) Village Council is a body of elected representatives of the village. It is responsible for implementing the decisions of the Gram Sabha and for carrying out the development programmes in the village.
- b) Block Development Council is a body of elected representatives of the blocks. It is responsible for planning and implementing development programmes in the blocks.
- c) Zilla Parishad is a body of elected representatives of the districts. It is responsible for planning and implementing development programmes in the districts.