Question of the Day – Panchayat advancement index report
QOTD March 23,2026
Consider the following statements regarding Panchayat Advancement Index:
- It is a tool to measure the performance of Panchayats across various development indicators.
- It is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
- It is prepared by the Election Commission of India.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
The Panchayat Advancement Index evaluates Panchayats based on multiple development indicators.
Statement 2 is correct
It is aligned with Sustainable Development Goals to track grassroots progress.
Statement 3 is incorrect
It is prepared by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, not the Election Commission.
Why in news–
Why in news
The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) report has recently been released by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj to evaluate the performance of Panchayats across India. It has gained attention because it provides a comprehensive, data-driven framework to assess grassroots governance based on multiple development indicators. The index aligns Panchayat functioning with Sustainable Development Goals and encourages evidence-based planning at the local level. It is significant as it promotes transparency, accountability and competitive federalism among Panchayats. The report also helps policymakers identify regional disparities and improve targeted delivery of rural development schemes.
News-https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/panchayat-advancement-index-faq-ranking-9937042/
There are more questions from this topic that you should practice to make your concepts stronger.
Practice Questions (PQ)
PQ1.Consider the following statements regarding Panchayati Raj Institutions:
- They are constitutionally recognised under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.
- They function as local self-government bodies in rural areas.
- They are directly controlled by the Union Parliament in all matters.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment provided constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions.
Statement 2 is correct
They function as local self-government institutions at the village level.
Statement 3 is incorrect
They are mainly under the jurisdiction of state governments, not directly controlled by Parliament.
PQ2. Consider the following statements regarding decentralisation in India:
- Decentralisation transfers powers and responsibilities to local bodies.
- It improves participation of people in governance.
- It completely removes the role of state governments.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
Decentralisation involves transfer of authority to lower levels of government.
Statement 2 is correct
It enhances public participation and accountability.
Statement 3 is incorrect
State governments continue to play a major role in governance.
PQ3. Consider the following statements regarding Sustainable Development Goals:
- They were adopted by the United Nations in 2015.
- They apply only to developing countries.
- They include goals related to poverty, health, education and environment.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
SDGs were adopted by the United Nations in 2015.
Statement 2 is incorrect
They apply to all countries, not only developing ones.
Statement 3 is correct
They cover a wide range of development areas including poverty, health and environment.
Previous Year Question (UPSC Prelims)
Consider the following statements:
- The minimum age prescribed for any person to be a member of Panchayat is 25 years.
- A Panchayat reconstituted after premature dissolution continues only for the remainder period.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) both 1 and 2
(d) neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect
The minimum age to be a member of Panchayat is 21 years.
Statement 2 is correct
A reconstituted Panchayat continues for the remaining duration of the original term.
