National Panchayati Raj Day:

Celebrated on 24 April

Significance:

Marks the enactment of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1993)

Purpose:

Establishment of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and three-tier governance (village, block, district)

Background:

Ancient India: Tradition of village councils (panchayats)

1957: Balwantrai Mehta Committee - Recommended revival of Panchayati Raj system

1992: 73rd Amendment - Granted PRIs constitutional status with defined roles