How Do You Spell PANCHAYATI RAJ?

Pronunciation: [pˌant͡ʃe͡ɪˈɑːti ɹˈad͡ʒ] (IPA)

Panchayati Raj is a term used in India to describe a system of local governance. The spelling of this word, according to IPA phonetic transcription, is pənˈtʃaɪəti rɑːdʒ. The first syllable, "pan", is pronounced with an unstressed, short "a" sound. The second syllable, "cha", is pronounced with a "ch" sound, like in "church". The third syllable, "ya", is pronounced with a "yuh" sound. The final syllable, "ti raj", is pronounced with a stressed "a" sound, followed by a "j" sound, like in "jump".

PANCHAYATI RAJ Meaning and Definition

  1. Panchayati Raj is a system of local self-government in India. The term "panchayat" translates to "village council" or "assembly of five" in Hindi, and "raj" means "rule" or "government." Therefore, Panchayati Raj refers to a form of local governance where elected village councils have the authority to govern and make decisions at the grassroots level.

    The objective of Panchayati Raj is to decentralize power from higher levels of government to local communities and promote participatory democracy. The system aims to empower rural communities by involving them in decision-making processes, addressing their specific needs, and delivering basic services and development programs effectively.

    Panchayati Raj institutions are elected bodies consisting of representatives from local villages or wards. They vary in structure and jurisdiction depending on the state and region, but generally consist of a gram panchayat (village council) at the village level, a panchayat samiti (block council) at the block or taluka level, and a zilla parishad (district council) at the district level.

    These institutions are responsible for a wide range of local governance functions, including planning and implementing social welfare programs, infrastructure development, resource management, education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, and rural development. Panchayati Raj provides a platform for citizens to voice their concerns, participate in decision-making, and hold their representatives accountable, thus fostering transparency and accountability in the administration of local affairs.

Etymology of PANCHAYATI RAJ

The word "panchayati raj" has its roots in the Hindi language. "Panchayati" is derived from "panchayat", which means "council of five" in Hindi. It comes from the Sanskrit words "pancha" meaning "five" and "ayat" meaning "to go" or "to manage". "Raj" is a Hindi word for "rule" or "governance". Therefore, "panchayati raj" can be translated to "rule by a council of five" or "local self-governance".