Home The Constitution Part IX Article 243B

Art. 243B Part IX: The Panchayats

Constitution of Panchayats

Exact text — Constitution of India

(1) There shall be constituted in every State, Panchayats at the village, intermediate and district levels in accordance with the provisions of this Part. (2) Notwithstanding anything in clause (1), Panchayats at the intermediate level may not be constituted in a State having a population not exceeding twenty lakhs.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article mandates a three-tier Panchayat structure — village, intermediate (block/taluk), and district level — in every state, with a specific population-based exception letting smaller states skip the middle tier if their population doesn't exceed 20 lakh (2 million).

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is why most of India has a consistent three-level rural local government structure, though you may notice smaller states or union territories sometimes operate with just two tiers, using this Article's specific population-based exception.

Read alongside this one

Art. 243c — Composition of Panchayats

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 243B

Do all states have three levels of Panchayats?

Most do, but states with a population of 20 lakh or less can skip the intermediate (block) level under this Article's specific exception, operating with just village and district-level Panchayats instead.

← PreviousArticle 243A: Gram Sabha Next →Article 243C: Composition of Panchayats

The text above reproduces Article 243B of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.