Question

Choose the correct statement(s) regarding the 97th Constitutional Amendment.

i) The 97th Amendment added the right to form cooperative societies as a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(c).

ii) Article 43B promotes voluntary formation, democratic control, and professional management of cooperative societies.

iii) The maximum number of board members in a cooperative society, as per Article 243ZJ, can be up to 25.

iv) The 97th Amendment came into force on 15 February 2012.

• A. i and ii only
• B. i, ii, and iv only
• C. ii and iii only
• D. iii and iv only

Answer 1

Answer:

B. i, ii, and iv only

97th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2011

• Background: This amendment was enacted to address issues related to cooperative societies in India. It aimed to strengthen the cooperative sector and ensure its effective functioning.

• Part IX-B: The amendment introduced a new part, Part IX-B, to the Constitution, specifically dealing with Cooperative Societies.

• Fundamental Right: Statement (i) is correct. The 97th Amendment amended Article 19(1)(c) to include the right to form cooperative societies as a fundamental right. This means citizens have the freedom to associate and form cooperatives.

• Directive Principles: Statement (ii) is correct. The amendment added Article 43B to the Directive Principles of State Policy. This article mandates the state to promote voluntary formation, autonomous functioning, democratic control, and professional management of cooperative societies.

• Provisions for Cooperatives: The amendment also inserted Articles 243ZH to 243ZT, which lay down various provisions for the incorporation, management, and regulation of cooperative societies.

• Board Membership: Statement (iii) is incorrect. While Article 243ZJ does deal with the board of directors, it specifies that the number of directors shall not exceed 21, not 25.

• Commencement Date: Statement (iv) is correct. The 97th Constitutional Amendment Act came into force on 15th February 2012.

• Significance for Competitive Exams: Amendments related to fundamental rights, directive principles, and specific provisions for different sectors are frequently tested. Pay close attention to the articles amended and the key objectives of each amendment.