NCERT Class 6 Social Science Exploring Society India and Beyond: Chapter 11 — Grassroots Democracy—Part 2: Local Government in Rural Areas
This chapter, "Grassroots Democracy—Part 2: Local Government in Rural Areas," from the NCERT Class 6 Social Science book "Exploring Society: India and Beyond," introduces the concept of local government in rural areas. It highlights the importance of grassroots democracy, emphasizing that the real India resides in its villages. The chapter uses the example of Lakshmanpur village to illustrate the daily needs and governance challenges faced by rural communities, such as water supply, road repair, and dispute resolution. It explains the Panchayati Raj system as a form of self-government where village councils, or Panchayats, bring governance closer to the people, enabling active participation in decision-making. The chapter underscores the vital role of Panchayats in addressing local issues, promoting development, and ensuring government schemes reach the grassroots level, thereby strengthening governance and democracy.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 6 |
| Subject | Social Science |
| Book | Exploring Society India and Beyond |
| Chapter | Chapter 11 — Grassroots Democracy—Part 2: Local Government in Rural Areas |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 285 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of local government in rural areas.
- Learn about the Panchayati Raj system and its role in self-governance.
- Recognize the importance of grassroots democracy and citizen participation.
- Identify the functions and significance of Panchayats in addressing local issues and promoting development.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Grassroots Democracy | A system of government where power is vested in local communities and citizens actively participate in decision-making. |
| Panchayat | A village council or local government body in rural India. |
| Panchayati Raj | The system of local self-government in rural India, comprising Panchayats at the village, block, and district levels. |
| Self-government | The right or ability of a country or region to govern itself. |
| Governance | The process of governing; the system of rules and organizations by which a country is controlled. |
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Practice questions
- What is meant by Panchayati Raj? Answer: Panchayati Raj is the system of local self-government in rural India, where village councils (Panchayats) play a key role in governance.
- Why is local government important in rural areas? Answer: Local government is important because it brings governance closer to the people, allowing them to participate in decision-making and address local issues effectively.
- According to the chapter, where does the real India live? Answer: According to the chapter, the real India lives in its villages.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main focus of Chapter 1 of 'Exploring Society: India and Beyond'?
The chapter focuses on local government in rural areas and introduces the Panchayati Raj system.
What is a Panchayat?
A Panchayat refers to a village council, which is a form of local government.
What is Panchayati Raj also known as?
Panchayati Raj is also known as a form of self-government.
Why is the Panchayati Raj system important?
It is important because it brings governance closer to the people, enabling active participation in decision-making and addressing local issues.
What are the different levels of local government mentioned in the diagram?
The diagram shows three levels: District level (Zila Parishad), Block level (Panchayat Samiti / Mandal Parishad), and Village level (Village Parishad / Gram Panchayat).
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 6 Social Science — Exploring Society India and Beyond — Chapter 11 — Grassroots Democracy—Part 2: Local Government in Rural Areas. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.