The correct answer is: b) Article 243
Article 243 of the Indian Constitution deals with the Panchayat Raj system. It provides for the establishment of three-tier Panchayat Raj system at the village, intermediate and district levels. The Panchayat Raj system is a system of local self-government in India. It was introduced in the Constitution of India by the 73rd Amendment Act, 1992. The Panchayat Raj system is based on the principle of decentralisation of power. It aims to involve the people in the decision-making process and to ensure that the benefits of development reach the people at the grassroots level.
The Panchayat Raj system is made up of three tiers:
- Village Panchayats: These are the lowest tier of the Panchayat Raj system. They are elected by the people of the village.
- Panchayat Samitis: These are the intermediate tier of the Panchayat Raj system. They are elected by the members of the Village Panchayats.
- Zila Parishads: These are the highest tier of the Panchayat Raj system. They are elected by the members of the Panchayat Samitis.
The Panchayat Raj system has the following functions:
- To prepare plans for economic development and social justice.
- To implement the plans prepared by the State Government.
- To maintain law and order in the village.
- To collect taxes and other revenue.
- To provide basic amenities to the people of the village.
The Panchayat Raj system is a very important part of the Indian democracy. It helps to promote decentralization of power and to involve the people in the decision-making process. It also helps to ensure that the benefits of development reach the people at the grassroots level.
The other options are incorrect because they do not deal with the Panchayat Raj system.
- Article 240 deals with the administration of tribal areas.
- Article 246 deals with the distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States.
- Article 249 deals with the power of the Parliament to make laws with respect to any matter in the State List in the national interest.