The Ward Panchs and the Sarpanch
Explanation
Under the framework established by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, the Panchayati Raj institutions function as units of local self-government. At the village level, the structure is divided into the legislative body (Gram Sabha) and the executive body (Gram Panchayat).Option Analysis:
- The Ward Panchs and the Sarpanch is Correct: The Gram Panchayat is the elected executive committee of the village. The village is divided into wards, and each ward elects a representative known as a Ward Panch (or Ward Member). The entire village (or the elected members, depending on state legislation) elects a head of the Panchayat, known as the Sarpanch (or Pradhan/Mukhiya). Together, the Ward Panchs and the Sarpanch constitute the elected component of the Gram Panchayat.
- The Secretary and the Block Development Officer is Incorrect: The Secretary of the Gram Panchayat is a non-elected official appointed by the State Government to handle administrative duties and maintain records. The Block Development Officer (BDO) is an administrative official at the Block level, not a member of the village-level elected body.
- All adults of the village is Incorrect: All registered voters (adults) of the village constitute the Gram Sabha. The Gram Sabha is the general assembly that elects the Gram Panchayat; it is not the elected executive body itself.
- The Sarpanch and the District Collector is Incorrect: The District Collector is a member of the permanent executive (bureaucracy) and heads the district administration. They are not an elected member of the village Panchayat.
Key Takeaway: The Gram Panchayat consists of elected representatives (Sarpanch and Ward Panchs), while the Gram Panchayat Secretary is an appointed government official responsible for administrative support.