Question

With respect to the 73^rd Amendment to the Constitution of India, what is the significance of the Eleventh Schedule?

State the significance of the Eleventh Schedule in the Constitution of India.

Answer 1

With respect to the 73^rd amendment to the constitution of India, the significance of the Eleventh Schedule is that it lists the 29 subjects which fall under the jurisdiction of Panchayats.

Answer 2

The Eleventh Schedule was introduced by the 73^rd Amendment Act, 1992, to the Constitution of India. It holds enormous significance as it clearly outlines the functional responsibilities of the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The Schedule lists 29 subjects that fall under the jurisdiction of Panchayats, including areas such as agriculture, rural housing, drinking water, health, sanitation, roads, education, and poverty alleviation. This constitutional inclusion marked a shift from advisory to empowered local bodies, promoting democratic decentralisation and grassroots-level governance. By defining these functions, the Eleventh Schedule strengthens the role of Panchayats in planning, implementing, and monitoring development schemes according to local needs. It also ensures greater transparency, accountability, and people’s participation in rural administration, making it a cornerstone in the success of local self-government in India.