The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 gave constitutional status to the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) — India's three-tier system of rural local self-government. It came into force on April 24, 1993.
The 73rd Amendment was inspired by the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) recommendations on democratic decentralisation. It took India 35 years to give Panchayati Raj constitutional status — the amendment is often called India's 'second democratic revolution'.
The 73rd Amendment:
| Article | Provision |
|---|---|
| 243A | Gram Sabha (village assembly of all voters) |
| 243B | Three-tier Panchayat structure |
| 243C | Composition of Panchayats |
| 243D | Reservation of seats for SC, ST, and women (minimum 1/3) |
| 243E | Duration — 5-year term |
| 243F | Disqualifications |
| 243G | Powers, authority, and responsibilities |
| 243H | Finances |
| 243I | State Finance Commission — reviews financial position |
| 243K | State Election Commission — conducts Panchayat elections |
The **74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992** does for urban areas (Municipalities, Municipal Corporations) what the 73rd does for rural Panchayats — giving them constitutional status under Part IX-A and the 12th Schedule.
What do you Understand by Sustainable Development?
Learn the definition and meaning of Sustainable Development in Class 10 Economics. Understand the Brundtland definition and key examples.
What is Tax? Types and Importance (Economics)
Learn the exact definition of tax in economics. Understand the difference between direct and indirect taxes with examples like income tax and GST.
Who Were Not Considered Passive Citizens? (French Revolution)
Learn who were called passive citizens during the French Revolution. Class 9 History chapter on the Constitution of 1791 and voting rights discrimination.
Why Do We Need a Constitution? (Class 9 Civics)
Learn why every country needs a constitution. Understand its role in defining government powers, protecting rights, and ensuring equal treatment of all citizens.
Why is Power Sharing Desirable? (Class 10 Civics)
Learn why power sharing is desirable in a democracy. Class 10 Civics prudential and moral reasons for power sharing with examples from Belgium and Sri Lanka.
Turn this guide into revision flashcards, a practice exam, or an AI-generated podcast — free, no signup required.