Answer:
The Panchayat at the Block level is called the "Panchayat Samiti" or "Block Panchayat". It is an intermediate level of the Panchayati Raj system in India, functioning between the Gram Panchayat (village level) and the Zilla Parishad (district level).
**Functions of Panchayat Samiti:**
1. Implementing various developmental schemes at the block level.
2. Planning and executing local development projects.
3. Coordination and supervision of activities of Gram Panchayats within the block.
4. Resource allocation and fund distribution for local development.
**States where Panchayat Samiti exists:**
Panchayat Samitis exist in various states across India where the Panchayati Raj system is implemented. Some of the prominent states include:
- Maharashtra
- Gujarat
- Rajasthan
- Madhya Pradesh
- Uttar Pradesh
- Bihar
- West Bengal
- Karnataka
- Tamil Nadu
- Andhra Pradesh
- Telangana
- Odisha
Each state may have variations in the structure and functioning of the Panchayat Samiti as per its own Panchayati Raj Acts and rules. The Block Panchayat or Panchayat Samiti plays a crucial role in decentralized governance and local administration, facilitating grassroots democracy and development.
