1. Village councils or local governing bodies in India and South Asia, typically composed of elected representatives who handle local administration and dispute resolution.
Usage: plural form; primarily used in Indian English and South Asian contexts; often capitalized when referring to formal government institutions

Examples

• The panchayats in rural India play a crucial role in local governance and community decision-making.
• Members of the panchayats are responsible for maintaining roads, schools, and water systems in their villages.
• The government allocated funds directly to panchayats to improve infrastructure in remote areas.
• Panchayats have traditionally served as forums for resolving disputes between villagers.
• Women's representation in panchayats has increased significantly over the past two decades.