Which tier of the Panchayati Raj system is responsible for the preparation of development plans at the block level?

The correct answer is: b) Panchayat Samiti.

The Panchayat Samiti is the second tier of the Panchayati Raj system. It is responsible for the preparation of development plans at the block level. The Panchayat Samiti is composed of elected representatives from the Gram Panchayats in the block. It is headed by a President, who is elected from among the members of the Panchayat Samiti. The Panchayat Samiti has a number of functions, including:

• Preparing development plans for the block
• Implementing development schemes
• Mobilizing resources for development
• Supervising the work of the Gram Panchayats
• Maintaining law and order in the block

The Panchayat Samiti is an important institution of local self-government. It plays a vital role in the development of rural areas.

The other options are incorrect for the following reasons:

• Option (a), Gram Panchayat, is the lowest tier of the Panchayati Raj system. It is responsible for the implementation of development schemes at the village level.
• Option (c), Zilla Parishad, is the third tier of the Panchayati Raj system. It is responsible for the preparation of development plans at the district level.
• Option (d), Gram Sabha, is the basic unit of the Panchayati Raj system. It is composed of all the adult members of a village. The Gram Sabha is responsible for discussing and approving development plans for the village.