PESA mahotsav & PESA act 1996
Why in news?
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched a two-day PESA Mahotsav in Visakhapatnam on December 22, 2025, to raise awareness about the Act and build Gram Panchayat capacities in Scheduled Areas. It highlights PESA's role in strengthening local self-governance and tribal empowerment amid ongoing implementation challenges.​
About PESA Act, 1996
Background
- Enacted on 24 December 1996.
- Extends Part IX of the Constitution (Panchayati Raj) to Scheduled Areas under Article 244(1).
- Designed to empower tribal communities who historically faced marginalization, displacement, and loss of land.
Objectives
- Enable tribal self-rule in Fifth Schedule areas.
- Protect community rights over land, water, forests, and natural resources.
- Ensure Gram Sabhas act as the foundation of governance.
- Prevent alienation of tribal land and exploitation by outsiders.
Key Provisions
- Gram Sabhas must approve social-economic programs, certify fund utilization, and safeguard traditions, community resources, and cultural practices.​
- Panchayats obtain reservations proportional to tribal populations and consult Gram Sabhas before land acquisition or projects.​
- States must amend Panchayati Raj Acts to align with PESA, devolving powers without higher-level interference.​
Challenges
- Implementation gap: Many states have not fully enforced PESA rules.
- Conflict with existing laws: Forest, mining, and excise laws often override Gram Sabha powers.
- Awareness deficit: Tribal communities need capacity-building to exercise rights effectively.
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