Polity

 

Faqs on Polity of Punjab

What is the structure of the Punjab government?

Punjab follows a parliamentary system of government, similar to other Indian states:

  • Executive Branch:
    • Governor: The constitutional head of the state, appointed by the President of India.
    • Chief Minister: The head of the government, leading the majority party or coalition in the Legislative Assembly.
    • Council of Ministers: Assists the Chief Minister in governing the state.
  • Legislative Branch:
    • Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly): A unicameral legislature with 117 elected members.
  • Judicial Branch:
    • Punjab and Haryana High Court: Located in Chandigarh, it has jurisdiction over Punjab and Haryana.

What are the major political parties in Punjab?

The major political parties in Punjab include:

  • Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)
  • Indian National Congress (INC)
  • Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)
  • Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)

What are some key issues in Punjab politics?

A: Key issues include:

  • Agriculture (farmer debt, MSP, crop diversification)
  • Water disputes (especially with Haryana)
  • Drug abuse and addiction
  • Industrial development and employment
  • Environmental concerns
  • Religious and cultural identity issues

How often are elections held in Punjab?

Elections to the Vidhan Sabha are held every five years unless dissolved earlier. The last elections were held in 2022.

What is the role of the Panchayati Raj system in Punjab?

Panchayati Raj is a three-tier system of local self-governance in Punjab:

  • Gram Panchayats (village councils)
  • Panchayat Samitis (block councils)
  • Zila Parishads (district councils)

These bodies play a vital role in rural development, local planning, and service delivery.

How can I get involved in the political process in Punjab?

You can get involved by:

  • Voting in elections
  • Joining a political party
  • Participating in public debates and discussions
  • Contacting your elected representatives