Exp) Option c is the correct answer

The Panchayati Raj has evolved since independence and for the purpose of examining various issues, Government has set up several committees time to time. Some of the committees and their purpose are as follows:

Pair 1 is correct – In 1988, a sub-committee of the Consultative Committee of Parliament was constituted under the chairmanship of P.K. Thungon to examine the political and administrative structure in the district for the purpose of district planning. This committee suggested for the strengthening of the Panchayati Raj system.

Pair 2 is correct – In 1986, Rajiv Gandhi government appointed a committee to prepare a concept paper on ‘Revitalisation of Panchayati Raj Institutions for Democracy and Development’ under the chairmanship of L.M. Singhvi. It gave some recommendations like The Panchayati Raj institutions should be constitutionally recognised, protected and preserved, Nyaya Panchayats should be established for a cluster of villages, The Village Panchayats should have more financial resources.

Pair 3 is incorrect – This was the role of GVK Rao Committee and not Ashok Mehta Committee. The Committee to review the existing Administrative Arrangements for Rural Development and Poverty Alleviation Programmes under the chairmanship of G.V.K. Rao was appointed by the Planning Commission in 1985. In December 1977, the Janata Government appointed a committee on Panchayati raj institutions under the chairmanship of Ashok Mehta.

Pair 4 is correct – The Committee on Policy and Programmes was constituted in 1988 by the Congress party under the chairmanship of V.N. Gadgil. This committee was asked to consider the question of “how best Panchayati Raj institutions could be made effective”. The recommendations of the Gadgil Committee became the basis for drafting an amendment bill aimed at conferring the constitutional status and protection to the Panchayati Raj institutions.