Grassroots Democracy – Part 2: Local Government in Rural Area – MCQs

MCQs – Grassroots Democracy – Part 2: Local Government in Rural Area

Section 1 — Basics & Background (Q1–Q10)

Q1. Which Act gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj in India?
A. 42nd Amendment Act
B. 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992)
C. 61st Amendment Act
D. 44th Amendment Act
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — the 42nd was about emergency provisions, not Panchayats.
B: Correct — the 73rd Amendment (1992) granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions.
C: Incorrect — 61st dealt with voting age for Lok Sabha/State Assemblies.
D: Incorrect — 44th Amendment revised emergency provisions; unrelated to Panchayats.

Q2. What is meant by ‘grassroots democracy’?
A. Democracy at a national level only
B. Democracy at the lowest/local level where people participate directly
C. Rule by a group of elite citizens
D. Foreign rule in villages
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — national level is higher, not grassroots.
B: Correct — grassroots democracy refers to democratic action at the village/neighborhood level with direct citizen participation.
C: Incorrect — elite rule is the opposite of grassroots participation.
D: Incorrect — foreign rule is unrelated.

Q3. Which one is the main purpose of local self-government?
A. Centralise all power in the capital
B. Allow people to manage their local affairs directly
C. Replace state governments entirely
D. Run only national defence activities
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — local self-government decentralises power, not centralises it.
B: Correct — its purpose is to enable local management of local problems.
C: Incorrect — it does not replace state governments; it complements them.
D: Incorrect — defence is a central function, not local.

Q4. Which of the following existed in Indian villages in ancient times and inspired modern Panchayats?
A. Corporate boards
B. Councils of village elders (panchayats)
C. Central banks
D. National parliaments
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — corporate boards are modern business institutions.
B: Correct — traditional village councils of elders (often called panchayats) are the historical predecessors of modern Panchayati Raj.
C: Incorrect — central banks are modern financial institutions.
D: Incorrect — parliaments operate at the national level.

Q5. Which term describes transferring decision-making powers from the state to the village level?
A. Federalism
B. Centralisation
C. Decentralisation
D. Globalisation
Answer: C
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — federalism is division of power between state and central, not specifically downward transfer.
B: Incorrect — centralisation is the opposite of transferring powers downwards.
C: Correct — decentralisation means distributing power to local bodies.
D: Incorrect — globalisation is about worldwide integration, unrelated here.

Q6. Who is the typical head of a Gram Panchayat?
A. Mayor
B. Sarpanch (Pradhan)
C. Chief Minister
D. Member of Parliament
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — mayors head municipal corporations in cities.
B: Correct — the Sarpanch (also called Pradhan in some states) is the elected head of a Gram Panchayat.
C: Incorrect — Chief Minister heads the state government.
D: Incorrect — MPs represent people in Parliament, not head Gram Panchayats.

Q7. Gram Sabha is composed of which of the following?
A. Only the Sarpanch and Panchayat members
B. All adult residents (18+) of the village
C. Only the school teachers of the village
D. Only government officials posted in the village
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — Gram Sabha includes all adults, not just elected members.
B: Correct — the Gram Sabha is the general body of all adult (18+) citizens of the village.
C: Incorrect — teachers are only a part of the community, not the whole.
D: Incorrect — officials may attend but Gram Sabha is the assembly of villagers.

Q8. The usual tenure of elected Panchayat members is:
A. 2 years
B. 3 years
C. 5 years
D. Lifetime
Answer: C
Explanations:

A/B: Incorrect — too short; the constitutional norm is different.
C: Correct — Panchayat members are normally elected for a five-year term.
D: Incorrect — offices are not for life in democratic systems.

Q9. Which of these is NOT a function of Gram Panchayat?
A. Maintaining village roads
B. Running primary schools and anganwadis
C. Printing currency notes
D. Arranging health camps and sanitation work
Answer: C
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — maintaining local infrastructure is a Panchayat task.
B: Incorrect — many Panchayats support primary education and anganwadis.
C: Correct — printing currency is a central government function, not local.
D: Incorrect — health and sanitation are typical local functions.

Q10. Which one helps strengthen accountability of Panchayat members?
A. No public meetings ever held
B. Regular Gram Sabha meetings where villagers question leaders
C. Secret financial transactions only for the Sarpanch
D. Banning villagers from attending meetings
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — not holding meetings reduces accountability.
B: Correct — Gram Sabha meetings enable villagers to question and hold the Panchayat accountable.
C: Incorrect — secrecy reduces accountability and encourages misuse.
D: Incorrect — banning attendance prevents accountability.

Section 2 — Structure & Roles (Q11–Q20)

Q11. Which body coordinates work among several Gram Panchayats in a block?
A. Zila Parishad
B. Panchayat Samiti (Block Panchayat)
C. State Legislature
D. National Parliament
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — Zila Parishad functions at district level, above block.
B: Correct — Panchayat Samiti works at the block level to coordinate multiple Gram Panchayats.
C/D: Incorrect — state legislature and Parliament are higher-level legislative bodies.

Q12. Which is the highest level body in Panchayati Raj at the district level?
A. Gram Panchayat
B. Panchayat Samiti
C. Zila Parishad
D. Municipal Corporation
Answer: C
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — village-level body.
B: Incorrect — block-level body.
C: Correct — Zila Parishad is the district-level apex body in rural local governance.
D: Incorrect — Municipal Corporations are urban bodies.

Q13. Who usually participates in the Zila Parishad apart from elected representatives?
A. Only school students
B. MPs and MLAs from the district as members or invitees
C. Only the President of India
D. Foreign diplomats
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — students don’t have a formal role.
B: Correct — MPs and MLAs from the district may be members or special invitees to coordinate.
C/D: Incorrect — President and diplomats do not directly participate in Zila Parishads.

Q14. Reservation in Panchayats is meant to:
A. Exclude weaker sections from participation
B. Ensure representation for women, SCs and STs
C. Give all seats to wealthy people
D. Prevent elections from happening
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — reservation is intended to include, not exclude.
B: Correct — reservation ensures that women and disadvantaged groups receive representation.
C/D: Incorrect — reservation prevents elite capture, not promote it; it does not stop elections.

Q15. Which leader is primarily responsible for convening Gram Sabha meetings?
A. Prime Minister
B. Sarpanch of Gram Panchayat
C. Headmaster of the village school only
D. District Collector without village input
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — Prime Minister is national leader, not village.
B: Correct — Sarpanch often calls Gram Sabha meetings in the village.
C/D: Incorrect — other officials may help, but convening is a Panchayat responsibility.

Q16. Which of these is a statutory body created under the 73rd Amendment?
A. National Sports Council
B. Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) including Gram Panchayats and Gram Sabha
C. Central Bureau of Investigation
D. Reserve Bank of India
Answer: B
Explanations:

A/C/D: Incorrect — these are unrelated national institutions.
B: Correct — the 73rd Amendment provided statutory recognition to PRIs, making them part of the Constitution.

Q17. Which of the following is NOT true about Gram Panchayat members?
A. They are elected by villagers
B. They have a tenure of five years
C. They are appointed by the President of India
D. Seats may be reserved for women and SC/ST
Answer: C
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — correct statement.
B: Incorrect — correct statement.
C: Correct — members are elected, not appointed by the President.
D: Incorrect — reservation is a constitutional provision in many states.

Q18. The head of a Panchayat Samiti is commonly called:
A. Sarpanch
B. Chairperson or Block Pramukh
C. Prime Minister
D. Governor
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — Sarpanch heads Gram Panchayat, not Samiti.
B: Correct — the Panchayat Samiti is headed by a Chairperson or Block Pramukh (name varies by state).
C/D: Incorrect — national/state heads are not relevant here.

Q19. Which body is responsible for preparing district-level development plans?
A. Gram Sabha
B. Panchayat Samiti
C. Zila Parishad
D. Public Library Committee
Answer: C
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — Gram Sabha operates at village level, not district planning.
B: Incorrect — Panchayat Samiti prepares block-level plans.
C: Correct — Zila Parishad prepares and coordinates district-level development plans.
D: Incorrect — unrelated.

Q20. Which feature makes Panchayati Raj distinct from earlier village systems?
A. It has no elections
B. It is given constitutional status and formal structure (three-tier)
C. It is only for urban areas
D. It excludes women from leadership
Answer: B
Explanations:

A: Incorrect — it has regular elections.
B: Correct — the 73rd Amendment provided constitutional backing and structure to PRIs, distinguishing them from traditional informal councils.
C/D: Incorrect — PRIs are rural and inclusive.

Section 3 — Gram Sabha Deep Dive (Q21–Q30)

Q21. Which of the following is a primary function of Gram Sabha?
A. Approving village development plans and monitoring spending
B. Declaring war on neighboring countries
C. Conducting state elections alone
D. Printing driver’s licenses
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha approves plans, reviews expenditure, and monitors Panchayat work.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are national/state functions unrelated to Gram Sabha.

Q22. How often is Gram Sabha expected to meet in many states (minimum)?
A. Never
B. At least once every five years
C. At least twice or more yearly (varies by state; many suggest quarterly or more)
D. Daily mandatory meetings
Answer: C
Explanations:

A/B/D: Incorrect — not accurate; Gram Sabhas meet regularly more often than every five years and not daily.
C: Correct — states set rules; many require Gram Sabha to meet at least 2–4 times a year (some recommend even more frequently).

Q23. Which of the following actions can villagers take in a Gram Sabha?
A. Approve beneficiaries for schemes
B. Appoint the Chief Justice of India
C. Control foreign policy
D. Print banknotes
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha selects beneficiaries for local schemes and welfare.
B/C/D: Incorrect — judiciary, foreign policy, and currency are national responsibilities.

Q24. Which statement about Gram Sabha and education is correct?
A. Gram Sabha runs universities across the country
B. Gram Sabha can discuss local school functioning and suggest improvements
C. Gram Sabha sets the national curriculum
D. Gram Sabha controls state broadcast channels
Answer: B
Explanations:

A/C/D: Incorrect — such functions are state/national.
B: Correct — Gram Sabha can monitor and discuss local schools and suggest improvements or raise concerns.

Q25. The Gram Sabha’s role as a watchdog helps in which of the following?
A. Hiding village budgets
B. Ensuring transparency, preventing misuse of funds
C. Promoting secrecy in governance
D. Avoiding public scrutiny
Answer: B
Explanations:

A/C/D: Incorrect — opposite of watchdog functions.
B: Correct — the Gram Sabha checks expenditure and holds Panchayat accountable.

Q26. Which of these issues can be raised in a Gram Sabha meeting?
A. Local road repairs, water supply, beneficiaries for schemes
B. International trade agreements
C. Running the country’s nuclear program
D. Printing passports for villagers
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — local civic issues are typical Gram Sabha topics.
B/C/D: Incorrect — national-level, not village concern.

Q27. If villagers suspect misuse of Panchayat funds, what is the Gram Sabha’s role?
A. To ignore the problem
B. To question the Panchayat, demand records, and take corrective steps or escalate to authorities
C. To ban villagers from meetings
D. To declare the Sarpanch king for life
Answer: B
Explanations:

A/C/D: Incorrect — these are wrong actions.
B: Correct — Gram Sabha can raise the issue publicly and seek remedies or higher-level intervention.

Q28. Which right do Gram Sabha members have?
A. To vote, ask questions, and approve or reject plans of the Gram Panchayat
B. To abolish the state government single-handedly
C. To issue legal judgments for the whole country
D. To print laws without consultations
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha members have participatory rights in village governance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — such powers lie with higher institutions.

Q29. How does Gram Sabha help in selecting beneficiaries for schemes like pensions?
A. By checking criteria, listening to villagers’ suggestions, and approving a list publicly
B. By keeping the selection secret in private rooms
C. By allowing only one person to choose beneficiaries
D. By random guesswork with no records
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha verifies eligibility and approves beneficiaries to ensure fairness.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these approaches encourage misuse and lack of transparency.

Q30. Which factor weakens the functioning of Gram Sabha?
A. High public awareness and attendance
B. Low attendance, domination by elites, and lack of awareness
C. Free distribution of meeting minutes to villagers
D. Regular transparency in village accounts
Answer: B
Explanations:

A/C/D: Incorrect — these strengthen Gram Sabha.
B: Correct — low attendance and elite dominance reduce Gram Sabha effectiveness.

Section 4 — Functions & Services (Q31–Q40)

Q31. Which of these services is commonly provided or facilitated by Gram Panchayats?
A. Street lighting and village roads maintenance
B. Managing international airports
C. Running national stock markets
D. Issuing national identity cards for all citizens
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — basic civic services like street lighting and road maintenance are typical Panchayat tasks.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are national/urban/state level tasks.

Q32. How do Panchayats contribute to sanitation?
A. Building toilets, managing waste, and conducting cleanliness drives
B. Operating nuclear waste facilities
C. Controlling internet censorship nationally
D. Running international cleaning companies only abroad
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — local sanitation projects and awareness drives are Panchayat responsibilities.
B/C/D: Incorrect — unrelated or national/international tasks.

Q33. Which of these health-related actions may be organized by a Gram Panchayat?
A. Vaccination camps and health awareness programmes
B. Creating national health insurance policy by itself
C. Developing medical courses for universities alone
D. Issuing medical licenses nationwide
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayats often host camps and awareness drives with health departments.
B/C/D: Incorrect — policy and licensing are state/central responsibilities.

Q34. How can Panchayats support primary education?
A. Maintaining school buildings, monitoring teachers, and supporting midday meal arrangements
B. Running Ivy League universities nationally
C. Replacing the state education department entirely
D. Producing national textbooks without approval
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — local support and supervision help primary education delivery.
B/C/D: Incorrect — national/state-level functions.

Q35. Which government scheme often provides wage employment through Panchayats for rural work?
A. MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act)
B. National Space Programme
C. Urban Metro Construction Fund
D. Central Bank Lending Scheme for corporates
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — MGNREGA is a major rural employment scheme implemented via local bodies.
B/C/D: Incorrect — unrelated programs or urban/central banking activities.

Q36. Which of these local infrastructure tasks can a Gram Panchayat undertake?
A. Building small bridges, drains, wells and village footpaths
B. Constructing national highways across states without permission
C. Building airports only
D. Managing international seaports
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayats handle small-scale infrastructure projects serving the village.
B/C/D: Incorrect — highways, airports, and seaports are state/central responsibilities.

Q37. How do Panchayats help in disaster management at local level?
A. Coordinate immediate relief, provide shelter, mobilise local volunteers and resources
B. Develop global treaties on disaster response alone
C. Replace the national disaster authority entirely
D. Send villagers to other countries as response teams always
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayats play crucial roles in local preparedness and immediate response.
B/C/D: Incorrect — national coordination is needed for large-scale disasters.

Q38. Which of these is a way Panchayats can support agricultural development?
A. Arrange irrigation works, distribute seeds, and organise farmer trainings
B. Sell farmland to foreign companies without local consent
C. Control global commodity prices alone
D. Convert all farmland to industrial zones immediately
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayats facilitate basic agricultural support and local improvements.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are undesirable or inappropriate actions.

Q39. Which local amenity is least likely to be directly managed by a small Gram Panchayat?
A. Village pond maintenance
B. Simple hand pump repairs
C. National airport operations
D. Organising local markets (haats)
Answer: C
Explanations:

A/B/D: Incorrect — these are local tasks a Panchayat can manage.
C: Correct — airports are national/international infrastructure, not village-level.

Q40. Which of these activities shows Gram Panchayat’s role in social welfare?
A. Running pension lists, helping access government schemes, assisting poor households
B. Selling government bonds internationally
C. Managing the central bank’s monetary policy
D. Legislating for the entire nation alone
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayats help deliver social welfare services locally.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are central/state financial or legislative functions.

Section 5 — Funds, Finance & Accounts (Q41–Q50)

Q41. Which is a common source of revenue for Gram Panchayats?
A. Local taxes (house, shop), fees and market charges
B. Printing national currency
C. Selling state-level passes only
D. Charging for national passports
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayats raise funds through small local taxes and fees.
B/C/D: Incorrect — currency and passport issuance are national functions.

Q42. What role do government grants play for Panchayats?
A. Supplement local funds for development projects and schemes
B. Replace the need for any local planning
C. Eliminates the need for transparency in spending
D. Forces villages to become urban corporations overnight
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — grants from state/central governments help finance projects and schemes.
B/C/D: Incorrect — grants don’t remove planning needs or transparency and do not change status overnight.

Q43. Which practice increases financial transparency in Panchayats?
A. Publishing budgets and expenditure details in Gram Sabha and public notice boards
B. Keeping accounts secret with one person only
C. Destroying financial records yearly
D. Hiding expenditure from villagers permanently
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — public disclosure lets villagers inspect and question spending.
B/C/D: Incorrect — secrecy and destruction undermine accountability.

Q44. If a Panchayat wants to borrow money for a big project, what is a likely source?
A. Local donations, bank loans (with state approval), or special scheme funds
B. Printing money locally in the village
C. Borrowing from foreign governments without approvals
D. Selling national monuments illegally
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayats can obtain loans or grants following rules; donations may also help.
B/C/D: Incorrect — illegal or impossible approaches.

Q45. A village budget usually needs approval from which body?
A. Gram Sabha (or higher statutory authority as required)
B. The President of another country
C. The private companies only
D. Random citizens outside the village only
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha commonly reviews and approves village budgets or Panchayat plans.
B/C/D: Incorrect — irrelevant external actors.

Q46. Why is record-keeping important for Panchayat accounts?
A. It helps track spending, supports audits, and allows villagers to check where funds went
B. It is only for printing fancy papers with no use
C. It hides all information from the public
D. It prevents anyone from knowing anything ever
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — records are essential for transparency, audits and accountability.
B/C/D: Incorrect — the listed answers are false and harmful practices.

Q47. Which one of the following is NOT a sensible way to use Panchayat funds?
A. Constructing a community water tank
B. Running a public health camp
C. Funding personal luxury purchases for officials
D. Repairing village roads
Answer: C
Explanations:

A/B/D: Incorrect — these are legitimate uses of public funds.
C: Correct — using public funds for personal luxuries is misuse and corruption.

Q48. How can villagers check the Panchayat’s financial use?
A. By viewing accounts and asking questions during Gram Sabha meetings
B. By assuming everything is fine without checking
C. By banning Gram Sabha meetings permanently
D. By celebrating secrecy as a virtue
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha is the proper forum for inspection and questioning.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these options reduce oversight and encourage misuse.

Q49. Which is an advantage of giving more financial powers to Panchayats?
A. Faster local development and better alignment with village needs
B. Complete abandonment of national law
C. Instant wealth for Panchayat members personally
D. No need for any spending records ever
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — local financial autonomy can speed up projects tailored to needs.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are either false or harmful outcomes.

Q50. What is the importance of audits for Panchayat funds?
A. Audits verify correctness of accounts, prevent misuse and increase trust among villagers
B. Audits exist to confuse villagers only
C. Audits are used to hide misappropriation
D. Audits replace the need for Gram Sabha meetings completely
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — audits ensure funds are used as intended and strengthen accountability.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are misconceptions or false claims.

Section 6 — Elections, Participation & Rights (Q51–Q60)

Q51. Who can vote in Panchayat elections?
A. Any adult resident (18+) of the village enrolled in voter list
B. Only the Sarpanch can vote for everyone
C. Foreign tourists visiting the village
D. Children under 18 years only
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — eligible adult residents registered to vote can participate in Panchayat elections.
B/C/D: Incorrect — voting is individual, limited to eligible residents.

Q52. Which of the following strengthens participation in Gram Sabha?
A. Scheduling meetings at convenient times and spreading awareness about their importance
B. Holding meetings in secret at weird hours nobody knows about
C. Charging an entry fee to attend Gram Sabha
D. Banning questions during meetings permanently
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — convenience and awareness boost attendance and participation.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these measures discourage attendance and transparency.

Q53. Why are reservations for women important in Panchayats?
A. They ensure women get opportunities to lead and represent community interests
B. They prevent women from attending meetings
C. They ensure only men rule villages
D. They are meant to exclude women forever
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — reservations aim to increase women’s representation and voice in governance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — exact opposites of the reservation intention.

Q54. Which of these shows active civic participation by villagers?
A. Asking questions in Gram Sabha about village spending and plans
B. Burning public records to hide irregularities
C. Ignoring Gram Sabha meetings forever
D. Only talking to outsiders without attending local meetings
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — asking questions and engaging is active civic participation.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are non-constructive or obstructive behaviors.

Q55. Which right do villagers exercise during Gram Sabha?
A. Right to ask questions, approve plans, and select beneficiaries
B. Right to unilaterally change the state constitution alone
C. Right to declare a national holiday for the entire country
D. Right to set customs policy independently
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha enables these local participatory rights.
B/C/D: Incorrect — such powers are outside Gram Sabha’s scope.

Q56. What can be a reason for low voter turnout in Panchayat elections?
A. Lack of awareness, disinterest, or fear of local elites
B. Overwhelming public enthusiasm always
C. Availability of too many free public services only
D. Excessive transparency in all matters
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — these are common reasons for low turnout.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these don’t explain low turnout.

Q57. Which body conducts Panchayat elections in India?
A. State Election Commission (in most states)
B. The local tea shop owner
C. The United Nations
D. Municipal Corporation by default
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — State Election Commissions typically organise local body elections.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are not responsible agencies.

Q58. Which of these measures can increase youth participation in local governance?
A. Civic education in schools, volunteering opportunities and youth councils
B. Banning youth from public spaces forever
C. Forcing youth to leave villages permanently
D. Removing all opportunities to volunteer locally
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — education and practical roles increase youth engagement.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these measures suppress participation.

Q59. What is an effect of increased public participation in local governance?
A. Greater accountability, better decision-making and trust in leaders
B. Complete collapse of all public services automatically
C. Government stops existing everywhere
D. Villagers become ignorant of issues
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — participation generally improves governance outcomes.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are false outcomes.

Q60. Which of the following is a civic duty of villagers?
A. Paying local taxes, attending Gram Sabha and voting responsibly
B. Avoiding all community responsibilities forever
C. Destroying public records to hide truth
D. Preventing others from voting by force
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — paying taxes, attending meetings, and voting are civic duties.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are irresponsible or illegal actions.

Section 7 — Challenges & Remedies (Q61–Q70)

Q61. Which of the following is a major challenge for effective Panchayati Raj?
A. Lack of funds and low awareness among villagers
B. Excessive funds with no need to spend them
C. Very high literacy leading to too many questions only
D. Total absence of any problems in villages
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — fund shortages and lack of awareness commonly hinder effective local governance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — unrealistic or not typically problematic.

Q62. How does corruption affect Panchayats?
A. It leads to misuse of funds, incomplete projects and loss of trust
B. It makes projects finish faster legally
C. It always reduces the cost of materials fairly
D. It ensures better transparency automatically
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — corruption undermines service delivery and public trust.
B/C/D: Incorrect — corruption causes harm rather than improving outcomes.

Q63. Which is a practical way to reduce corruption in Panchayats?
A. Public disclosure of accounts and independent audits, plus Gram Sabha oversight
B. Burn all records and erase history
C. Make all decisions secret with no records
D. Allow a single person to control all funds privately
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — transparency and audits are effective anti-corruption measures.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these encourage corruption and secrecy.

Q64. How can literacy and education help Panchayati Raj function better?
A. Educated villagers can read records, question leaders and participate meaningfully
B. It reduces villagers’ ability to understand anything
C. It removes the need for any meetings ever
D. It forces everyone to quit village life
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — education empowers participation and oversight in local governance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — false or nonsensical outcomes.

Q65. Which of these actions strengthens Gram Sabha participation?
A. Spread awareness, schedule meetings conveniently, and involve women and youth
B. Keep meeting times secret and complicated
C. Stop publicising meetings so no one can attend
D. Only invite a few chosen people to decide for all
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — awareness and accessibility increase Gram Sabha attendance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these exclude citizens and weaken democratic processes.

Q66. Why is empowering women in Panchayats beneficial?
A. Women leaders often prioritise health, sanitation and education and make local governance more inclusive
B. It always leads to worse decisions in all cases
C. Women cannot be leaders ever
D. It is irrelevant to community welfare
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — women’s participation tends to bring attention to social issues and inclusivity.
B/C/D: Incorrect — baseless negative claims.

Q67. Which of the following is a role NGOs can play in strengthening rural governance?
A. Spreading awareness, training villagers, and assisting in project implementation
B. Hiding all facts forever from the public
C. Replacing elected bodies with secret societies only
D. Forcing villagers to migrate abroad permanently
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — NGOs often help mobilise communities and provide technical support.
B/C/D: Incorrect — harmful or unrealistic actions.

Q68. What is the problem with dominance of powerful groups in village politics?
A. It can marginalise weaker groups and distort decisions to favour elites
B. It always leads to transparent and fair distribution of resources
C. It eliminates the need for voting altogether with positive outcomes
D. It has no effect on fairness of decisions
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — elite capture reduces equity and democratic voice for weaker sections.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are unrealistic or false.

Q69. How can technology improve Panchayat transparency?
A. Publish accounts online, allow e-payments and digital grievance redressal to increase access and traceability
B. Make records unreadable to villagers only
C. Replace Gram Sabha with encrypted logs only accessible to a few
D. Remove all record-keeping entirely
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — e-governance tools increase transparency and convenience.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these reduce accessibility and accountability.

Q70. Which training can strengthen Panchayat members’ performance?
A. Training in local planning, financial management and community engagement
B. Training in how to hide records better
C. Training to discourage villagers from attending meetings
D. Training in illegal fund diversion techniques
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — capacity building in planning, accounts and participation helps Panchayat efficiency.
B/C/D: Incorrect — unethical or harmful training.

Section 8 — Case-based & Application (Q71–Q80)

Q71. A village has a broken water pump. Which is the best first step?
A. Raise the issue in Gram Sabha and ask Panchayat to repair or fund repairs
B. Ignore the pump forever and do nothing
C. Move to another country immediately
D. Sell the pump without informing anyone
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha discussion and Panchayat action is the proper local approach.
B/C/D: Incorrect — impractical or illegal responses.

Q72. If villagers want a community library, who should plan and seek funds?
A. Gram Panchayat in consultation with Gram Sabha and possible grant applications to higher bodies
B. The village dog by itself
C. The national army only
D. A foreign government without village consent
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayat-led planning with community approval is the right route.
B/C/D: Incorrect — unrealistic or inappropriate agents.

Q73. A Panchayat used funds but did not complete the school building. What can villagers do?
A. Raise the issue in Gram Sabha, demand accounts, and ask higher authorities for audit/investigation if needed
B. Accept it silently and do nothing forever
C. Burn the government offices immediately without procedure
D. Celebrate the incomplete building as success
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — public inquiry via Gram Sabha followed by escalation is the correct path.
B/C/D: Incorrect — passive or destructive responses.

Q74. How should a Panchayat prioritise multiple needs (water, road, school) with limited funds?
A. Prepare a transparent plan, consult Gram Sabha, and prioritize based on urgency and impact
B. Spend funds randomly with no plan
C. Give all funds to one person for private use
D. Ignore community needs deliberately
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — participatory planning and prioritisation ensures fair use of scarce resources.
B/C/D: Incorrect — poor governance choices.

Q75. A group in village wants to plant trees and save water. How can Panchayat help?
A. Provide saplings, allocate land, and mobilise labour under local schemes like MGNREGA for planting and water conservation works
B. Force people to cut all existing trees
C. Sell village ponds to private companies without consent
D. Ban all environmental activities forever
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayat can coordinate such environmental projects using local funds and schemes.
B/C/D: Incorrect — harmful actions.

Q76. A woman in the village complains her pension application was rejected though eligible. What should be done?
A. Bring the case in Gram Sabha, ask Panchayat to verify criteria and help reapply or escalate to higher authorities
B. Ignore the complaint
C. Evict the woman from the village without hearing
D. Celebrate the rejection publicly
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha and Panchayat oversight can correct errors and ensure benefits reach rightful people.
B/C/D: Incorrect — unethical responses.

Q77. Which of the following is an example of participatory local planning?
A. Gram Sabha open discussion to choose which roads to repair this year
B. One official deciding without consulting anyone
C. Secretly changing budgets at night without notice
D. Burning public documents to prevent anyone seeing them
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — inclusive discussion and decision-making is participatory planning.
B/C/D: Incorrect — non-participatory or illegal practices.

Q78. How can a Panchayat help women form self-help groups (SHGs)?
A. Provide meeting space, help with bank linkages, and support training on skills and bookkeeping
B. Ban women from meeting in public
C. Force women to do unpaid work always
D. Prevent any financial independence for women
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayats can facilitate SHG formation and linkages to microfinance and training.
B/C/D: Incorrect — discriminatory or harmful actions.

Q79. A Panchayat plans a new water tank. Which steps are correct?
A. Survey the need, prepare estimate, present budget in Gram Sabha, approve and implement with supervision and records
B. Start digging without any plan or approvals and pocket funds
C. Build it in someone’s private yard without consent
D. Stop documenting work completely
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — proper planning, public approval and supervision ensure accountability and effectiveness.
B/C/D: Incorrect — illegal and corrupt approaches.

Q80. A Gram Panchayat wants to increase transparency. Which measure would help most?
A. Displaying project details, budgets and beneficiary lists publicly and discussing them in Gram Sabha
B. Keeping all details secret under lock and key forever
C. Requiring villagers to ask permission before seeing any document
D. Allowing only the Sarpanch to decide everything secretly
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — public disclosure and discussion raise transparency and trust.
B/C/D: Incorrect — secrecy and control reduce accountability.

Section 9 — Revision, Concepts & Comparison (Q81–Q90)

Q81. Which statement best describes Panchayati Raj?
A. A web of village-level institutions enabling local self-government with elected representatives and Gram Sabha oversight
B. An arrangement where villages are controlled solely from the national capital
C. A system that eliminates local leadership entirely
D. Only an informal gathering with no legal backing
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Panchayati Raj is a formal, elected system with Gram Sabha as participatory body.
B/C/D: Incorrect — false descriptions.

Q82. How is a Gram Panchayat different from a Municipality?
A. Gram Panchayat is for rural villages; Municipality is for urban areas with different functions and scale
B. Gram Panchayat rules the entire country
C. Municipality is for villages only
D. There is no difference at all
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — rural vs urban distinction with differing scopes of work.
B/C/D: Incorrect — inaccurate statements.

Q83. Which of the following is a direct benefit of Gram Sabha participation for ordinary villagers?
A. They can approve plans and hold leaders accountable, ensuring schemes reach them
B. They become eligible to be Prime Minister immediately
C. They are exempted from all taxes forever
D. They automatically get large sums of money individually
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha gives villagers control over local decisions and oversight.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are unrealistic claims.

Q84. What is the meaning of ‘local self-government’?
A. Local people managing their own affairs through elected bodies like Gram Panchayat and Gram Sabha
B. Local authorities ruling over foreign countries
C. Local people having no role in decisions at all
D. Local businesses taking over governance by force
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — definition of local self-government.
B/C/D: Incorrect — false or extreme interpretations.

Q85. Which is an example of democratic practice at the village level?
A. Holding free and fair Panchayat elections and public Gram Sabha meetings to discuss and approve plans
B. Appointing a leader for life without elections
C. Silencing all questions in public meetings by force
D. Secretly diverting funds for private benefits
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — elections and public debate are democratic practices.
B/C/D: Incorrect — undemocratic or illegal acts.

Q86. What role does a Zila Parishad play in disaster relief?
A. Coordinate district-level response, allocate funds and link with state agencies for large relief operations
B. Build skyscrapers for unrelated reasons
C. Control global disaster policies solo
D. Ignore disasters entirely always
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Zila Parishad coordinates at district level and liaises with higher agencies.
B/C/D: Incorrect — irrelevant or false.

Q87. Which is the correct order from lowest to highest in Panchayati Raj?
A. Gram Panchayat → Panchayat Samiti → Zila Parishad
B. Zila Parishad → Panchayat Samiti → Gram Panchayat
C. Municipality → Gram Panchayat → Zila Parishad
D. Panchayat Samiti → Gram Panchayat → Zila Parishad
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — village (Gram Panchayat), block (Panchayat Samiti), district (Zila Parishad).
B/C/D: Incorrect — wrong ordering.

Q88. Which action would most reduce the influence of local elites in village decisions?
A. Encouraging broad Gram Sabha attendance, reservation and transparency in accounts
B. Banning public meetings only for the poor
C. Allowing only elite families to vote
D. Stopping elections permanently
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — inclusiveness and transparency reduce elite capture.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these strengthen elite control.

Q89. Which of these is NOT a responsibility of Panchayat Samiti?
A. Coordinate agricultural and health programs across villages in a block
B. Supervise implementation of block-level schemes
C. Issue passports to villagers for foreign travel
D. Provide technical assistance to Gram Panchayats
Answer: C
Explanations:

A/B/D: Incorrect — these are typical Panchayat Samiti responsibilities.
C: Correct — passport issuance is a central government task.

Q90. Which of the following best describes the relationship between Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat?
A. Gram Sabha (all villagers) approves and monitors; Gram Panchayat (elected members) implements and manages daily work
B. Gram Sabha rules the whole country; Gram Panchayat only holds parties
C. Gram Sabha is a private club; Gram Panchayat is a bank only
D. They are the same body with identical roles always
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — Gram Sabha is the deliberative assembly and Panchayat is the executive.
B/C/D: Incorrect — inaccurate characterisations.

Section 10 — Higher Order & Exam-style (Q91–Q100)

Q91. Which two elements together make Panchayati Raj democratic and people-centred?
A. Regular elections and active Gram Sabha participation
B. No elections and total secrecy
C. Elite-only rule and hidden budgets
D. Only national decisions with no local input
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — periodic elections plus active Gram Sabha create democratic, responsive local governance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these undermine democracy.

Q92. What would be the best indicator of a well-functioning Panchayat?
A. Timely delivery of basic services, transparent accounts, and regular Gram Sabha meetings with good attendance
B. No record-keeping and no meetings
C. Funds used only by leaders for private trips
D. Frequent conflicts without any public resolution
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — these are positive indicators of effective local governance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — signs of failure or corruption.

Q93. Which pairing is correct regarding local body and area?
A. Gram Panchayat — Village; Panchayat Samiti — Block; Zila Parishad — District
B. Gram Panchayat — City; Panchayat Samiti — Nation; Zila Parishad — Planet
C. Gram Panchayat — Continent; Panchayat Samiti — Ocean; Zila Parishad — Universe
D. Gram Panchayat — Airport; Panchayat Samiti — Space Station; Zila Parishad — Moon
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — standard three-tier mapping.
B/C/D: Incorrect — nonsensical.

Q94. If a Gram Panchayat lacks funds for a school renovation, which combined approach is best?
A. Seek state/central grants, mobilise local contributions, prioritise work with transparent Gram Sabha approval
B. Raid other people’s houses illegally for funds
C. Stop children from going to school forever
D. Sell public records to raise money
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — combining grants, community effort and transparency is practical and lawful.
B/C/D: Incorrect — illegal or harmful.

Q95. Which action best shows responsible leadership by a Sarpanch?
A. Calling Gram Sabha, presenting clear accounts, and acting on villagers’ priorities
B. Avoiding the public and hiding accounts
C. Spending funds on personal luxury without telling anyone
D. Forbidding anyone from speaking in meetings forever
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — convening public meetings and transparent action are hallmarks of responsible leadership.
B/C/D: Incorrect — irresponsible or authoritarian behaviour.

Q96. How might climate-resilient practices be supported at the Panchayat level?
A. Water conservation works, tree plantation, drought-proofing agriculture and mobilising local labour under schemes like MGNREGA
B. Removing all trees and sealing ponds permanently
C. Forbidding any agricultural practice ever
D. Importing practices that only apply to polar regions without adaptation
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — local adaptation projects are practical ways Panchayats can improve climate resilience.
B/C/D: Incorrect — destructive or irrelevant options.

Q97. Which combination helps ensure fair beneficiary selection for welfare schemes?
A. Clear eligibility criteria, Gram Sabha verification, public display of beneficiary lists
B. Secret selection by one person with no records
C. Randomly naming people on the spot with no checks
D. Choosing only relatives of the official in charge
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — open criteria, public verification and list display reduce favoritism and ensure fairness.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these facilitate corruption.

Q98. If a village wants to increase literacy, which Panchayat-led steps are effective?
A. Strengthen primary schools, adult literacy classes, evening classes, encourage attendance and support teachers with local resources
B. Close the primary school and prevent reading aloud
C. Stop funding education permanently
D. Force children into indefinite labour only
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — these local interventions improve literacy rates.
B/C/D: Incorrect — detrimental actions.

Q99. Which is the most appropriate role of citizens in making local governance better?
A. Participate in Gram Sabha, monitor projects, pay local taxes and vote responsibly
B. Remain completely indifferent and absent always
C. Hide all facts to help corruption flourish
D. Encourage secret dealings in public works
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — active, informed citizenry strengthens local governance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these harm the public interest.

Q100. Why should Class 6 students learn about Panchayati Raj and Gram Sabha?
A. To understand how democracy starts at the village level and how people can participate and improve their communities
B. To learn to ignore community matters forever
C. To become officials without any study
D. To avoid civic duties always
Answer: A
Explanations:

A: Correct — early civic education builds awareness and responsibility about local governance.
B/C/D: Incorrect — these are counterproductive or irrelevant.

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