Local Self-Government

Overview

Local self-government refers to the administration of local affairs by elected bodies at the village, block, district and urban levels. This topic is crucial for Bihar TET Paper II Social Studies because it directly connects constitutional provisions with ground-level governance that students experience in their daily lives. Bihar, being a predominantly rural state, has a robust three-tier panchayati raj system alongside municipal bodies in urban areas.

For the exam, you must understand the constitutional basis (73rd and 74th Amendments), the structure of rural and urban local bodies, their functions, revenue sources and the specific features of Bihar's panchayati raj system. Questions often test knowledge of constitutional provisions, tenure of bodies, reservation policies and the role of gram sabha. This topic also links with Indian Constitution and Indian Democracy sections, so mastering it strengthens your overall civics preparation.

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Key Concepts

• **Constitutional Basis**: The 73rd Amendment (1992) added Part IX to the Constitution, making panchayati raj a constitutional body. The 74th Amendment (1992) added Part IXA for municipalities. Both came into effect on 24 April 1993.

• **Three-Tier Panchayati Raj**: Rural local government operates at three levels — Gram Panchayat (village), Panchayat Samiti (block) and Zila Parishad (district). Bihar follows this structure under the Bihar Panchayati Raj Act, 2006.

• **Gram Sabha**: The general assembly of all registered voters in a panchayat area. It is the foundation of panchayati raj and must meet at least twice a year. It approves plans, identifies beneficiaries and ensures accountability.

• **Reservation Policy**: One-third seats reserved for women (Bihar raised this to 50% in 2006). Seats also reserved for SC/ST in proportion to their population. Reservation applies to chairperson positions as well.

• **Five-Year Tenure**: All panchayat and municipal bodies have a fixed tenure of five years. Elections must be held before the term expires. If dissolved early, elections must occur within six months.

• **State Election Commission**: An independent body conducts elections to panchayats and municipalities. The State Election Commissioner is appointed by the Governor.

• **Urban Local Bodies**: Municipalities handle urban governance — Nagar Panchayat (transitional areas), Nagar Parishad (smaller towns) and Nagar Nigam (Municipal Corporation for larger cities like Patna).

• **Devolution of Powers**: The 11th Schedule lists 29 subjects for panchayats and the 12th Schedule lists 18 subjects for municipalities, though actual devolution depends on state legislation.