Madhya Pradeshgovernment issued the notification to bring into force the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act 1996 (PESA) that aims to empower panchayat bodies to effect development works and allocation of Resources.
Chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan made the announcement and read out the notification before a gathering of tribals in Indore to mark the martyrdom day of freedom fighter Tantya Bhil. It came just before the panchayat polls were announced.
A fortnight ago, the Centre had asked four laggard states, MP included, to implement the Act.
seeks to enable panchayats and gram sabhas to implement a system of selfgovernance on several issues, such as customary resources, minor forest produce, minor Minerals, minor waterbodies, selection of beneficiaries, sanction of projects, and control of local institutions. The Act aims to empower local self-governments in Schedule V areas to help safeguard tribal traditions.