Write down the organization and function of Gram Panchayat.

Organization: Gram Panchayat is the lowest tier of the Panchayati Raj system in India. It is a local self-government body that is elected by the people of the village.

Function: The main functions of Gram Panchayat include:

1. Providing basic amenities such as water supply, sanitation, street lighting, and roads in the village.
2. Implementing government schemes and programs at the grassroots level.
3. Resolving disputes and maintaining law and order in the village.
4. Promoting local development and welfare activities.
5. Collecting local taxes and fees for services provided by the Gram Panchayat.
6. Representing the interests of the village at higher levels of government.
7. Encouraging community participation in decision-making and development activities.

Organization of Gram Panchayat:

1. Gram Sabha:
- Consists of all registered adult voters within the Gram Panchayat area
- Highest decision-making body
- Meets at least thrice a year

2. Gram Panchayat:
- Executive body constituted by directly elected members
- Number of members varies depending on population
- Headed by a Sarpanch (Headman)

3. Gram Panchayat Standing Committees:
- Sub-committees formed to handle specific functions, such as:
- Agriculture and Irrigation
- Education and Health
- Social Justice and Empowerment
- Women and Child Development
- Public Works

Function of Gram Panchayat:

Gram Panchayats are responsible for a wide range of functions within their jurisdiction, including:

1. Local Governance:
- Preparing and implementing village development plans
- Levying and collecting local taxes (such as property tax)
- Issuing licenses and permits (e.g., for construction)

2. Public Health and Safety:
- Providing basic healthcare services (e.g., vaccinations, health checkups)
- Maintaining sanitation, drainage, and waste management
- Establishing and managing community centers and playgrounds

3. Economic Development:
- Promoting agriculture and allied activities
- Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs
- Facilitating access to credit and financial assistance

4. Social Welfare:
- Providing support to vulnerable groups (e.g., women, children, the elderly)
- Implementing social welfare schemes
- Organizing cultural and social events

5. Environment and Conservation:
- Protecting water sources and forests
- Promoting sustainable practices
- Mitigating the impact of environmental degradation

6. Other Functions:
- Registering births and deaths
- Maintaining land records
- Resolving local disputes
- Cooperating with other government agencies