The correct option is (a) 1 only.
Explanation
Municipal Corporations are created for the administration of big cities. Their functions are broadly classified into obligatory and discretionary categories, often derived from the respective State Municipal Acts and the 12th Schedule of the Indian Constitution (added by the 74th Amendment Act), which lists 18 functional items for urban local bodies.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Public health and sanitation are among the most critical obligatory functions of a Municipal Corporation. This includes taking measures to prevent and check the spread of dangerous diseases, conducting vaccination drives, controlling vectors (like mosquitoes), and maintaining overall city hygiene.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Municipal Corporations are not prohibited from running schools and hospitals. In fact, the provision of primary education and public healthcare is a significant function. Many corporations operate primary schools, hospitals, dispensaries, and maternity homes to serve the urban population.
Key Takeaway:
Municipal Corporations are responsible for essential civic services, including public health, sanitation, water supply, and solid waste management. They also play a vital role in social infrastructure by managing educational institutions and healthcare facilities.