The Importance of the Three-Tier Panchayat System in Promoting Education in Rural West Bengal

Though it took another fifty years, a major breakthrough in the history of India’s education took place when the Lok Sabha, on November 28, 2001, passed the 93rd Constitutional Amendment Bill, making education a fundamental right. This bill, while emphasizing quality and accessible education, also calls for the sharing of responsibilities between different levels of government. Education being a basic right of citizens, the need for community participation in ensuring adequate and quality education for all (irrespective of class or caste) cannot be over-emphasized. It is our firm conviction that Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) has a major role to play in this regard. This study examines the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in overseeing education in collaboration with the Education Department in West Bengal. It is based on a field study of recent trends in educational administration in West Bengal. The aim was to thoroughly analyse the connections and collaboration between the development administration and the Panchayati Raj Department in West Bengal. Additionally, it also seeks to evaluate the obstacles in promoting public participation and democratic governance.