Basics of General Awareness & Current Affairs
(For Jharkhand Patwari / Lekhpal Exam)
Tip: Think of the government as a big family.
The President is the family head, the Prime Minister is the family manager, and the Parliament is the family council that makes decisions.
1. What is a Patwari / Lekhpal?
| Term | Simple definition | Everyday analogy |
|---|---|---|
| Patwari | Village land‑record keeper | The village accountant |
| Lekhpal | Same role, different state name (Jharkhand) | Same accountant in another town |
They keep track of land, collect taxes, and help villagers understand land laws.
2. Government of India – The “Family Tree”
| Branch | Who runs it | Key job |
|---|---|---|
| Executive | President (head) + Prime Minister (manager) | Make laws work |
| Legislature | Parliament (council) | Make laws |
| Judiciary | Supreme Court, High Courts | Interpret laws |
2.1 Parliament (The Council)
| House | How many members | Main role |
|---|---|---|
| Lok Sabha | 543 (plus 1) | Makes most laws |
| Rajya Sabha | 245 | Reviews laws, represents states |
Analogy: Lok Sabha = the house’s “household budget” committee; Rajya Sabha = the “senior council” that checks ideas.
2.2 Judiciary (The Family Lawyer)
| Court | Where it is | Who hears cases |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Court | New Delhi | Nation‑wide |
| High Court | Each state | State‑wide |
Analogy: Supreme Court = the family’s chief lawyer; High Court = the local lawyer.
3. The Constitution – The Family Rules
| Section | What it says | Simple example |
|---|---|---|
| Preamble | “We, the people…” | “We are a family that cares for everyone.” |
| Fundamental Rights | Freedom, equality, etc. | You can’t be treated unfairly because of your family background. |
| Fundamental Duties | Respect the flag, help the government | “Help your parents when they need you.” |
| Amendments | How rules can change | “If we want a new rule, we discuss it together.” |
Remember: Every rule in the Constitution is written in plain language, just like a family rule book.
4. Key Laws for Patwari/Lekhpal
| Law | Why it matters | Quick fact |
|---|---|---|
| Land Acquisition Act | How land is taken for public projects | Land can be bought at a fair price |
| Ownership (Registration) Act | How property is recorded | Every sale must be written down |
| Right to Information Act | People can ask for information | You can request land records in writing |
| MGNREGA (Employment Guarantee) | Rural jobs | Gives at least 100 days of work to villagers |
| Forest Rights Act | Protects forest people | Helps villagers use forest resources fairly |
Tip: Think of each law as a tool in a toolbox. Use the right tool for the right job.
5. Current Affairs – What’s Happening Now?
| Topic | What’s new? | Why it matters to you |
|---|---|---|
| Digitised Land Records (2024) | All village land records are now online | Easier to check ownership, reduces disputes |
| New MGNREGA Scheme | Extra 30 days of work in some districts | More job opportunities for villagers |
| Land Reform Pilot (Jharkhand) | Pilot project to transfer land to smaller farmers | May change how land records are kept |
| Supreme Court Judgment on Land Lease (2023) | Land lease agreements must be in writing | Patwari must check for proper documentation |
| Climate‑Friendly Agriculture Act | Encourages climate‑smart farming | Patwari can advise farmers on new practices |
Quick Flashcard:
Q: What is the main benefit of digitised land records?
A: Easier access and less fraud.