The correct answer is C. Article 243.
Article 243 of the Indian Constitution deals with the Panchayats. It provides for the establishment of Panchayats at the village, intermediate and district levels in every State. The State Legislatures are empowered to make laws for the composition, powers and functions of the Panchayats. The State Governments are also required to endow the Panchayats with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as institutions of self-government.
Article 243 also provides for the reservation of seats for women and for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes in the Panchayats. It also provides for the appointment of a State Election Commission to conduct elections to the Panchayats.
The Panchayats are important institutions of self-government at the local level. They play a vital role in the development and administration of rural areas. The 73rd and 74th Amendments to the Constitution have given a new impetus to the Panchayats and have made them more powerful and effective institutions.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option A: Article 241 deals with the institution of municipalities.
- Option B: Article 242 deals with the administration of tribal areas.
- Option D: Article 244 deals with the special provisions with respect to certain areas, namely, the tribal areas, the Scheduled Areas and the areas covered under the Fifth Schedule.