The correct answer is: d) All of the above.
The Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted in 1996. The Act extends the provisions of the Panchayats Act, 1993 to the Scheduled Areas. The Act aims to promote tribal self-governance through the establishment of gram sabhas (village councils) and panchayats (local self-government bodies).
The Act empowers gram sabhas to make decisions on matters relating to their social, economic, and cultural development. It also protects tribal customs and traditions, and ensures their participation in development planning.
The PESA Act has been hailed as a landmark legislation that has empowered tribal communities and helped to protect their rights. However, the Act has also been criticized for its implementation. Some critics argue that the Act has not been implemented effectively, and that tribal communities have not been able to fully benefit from its provisions.
Despite these criticisms, the PESA Act remains an important piece of legislation that has the potential to improve the lives of tribal communities in India.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
a) Empower gram sabhas in decision-making: The PESA Act empowers gram sabhas to make decisions on matters relating to their social, economic, and cultural development. This includes decisions on land use, forest management, water resources, and education.
b) Protect tribal customs and traditions: The PESA Act protects tribal customs and traditions. This includes the right to practice their religion, speak their language, and follow their traditional way of life.
c) Ensure participation in development planning: The PESA Act ensures that tribal communities participate in development planning. This includes the right to be consulted on development projects that affect their lives.