GENISIS OF PANCHAYAT RAJ SYSTEM IN VILLUPURAM DISTRICT: CUSP OF NEW GOVERNANCE

Abstract

This article mainly focused on the genesis of Panchayat system in Villupuram District.        The Panchayat is nothing but an elected local body through which the needs of the people in that locality have been with. The people of that locality are able to voice their opinion and requirements through such institutions. The origin of local Govt. in India during British period dates back to 1687 AD, with the establishment of the local body in the Presidency of Madras for the purpose of raising local Tax. The ancient system of village self Government in Tamil Nadu had undergone many change through the ages, It was the British who gave life and structure in the form of local boards. After independence, the community development programme, National Extension service scheme were entrusted to the Panchayat Union.Thefirst tier panchayat administration is the village panchayat at grass root level.  The president of the village panchayat is elected by the village people by direct election for a period of five years. There shall be a “Grama Sabha” for every panchayat consisting of persons registered in the electoral roll relating to the village panchayat.