The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Ac

The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA)

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extends greater say to local tribal community over common resources

provides greater devolution of powers to Scheduled Tribes

extends provisions of 73rd Amendment to Scheduled Areas

brings Scheduled Areas under the better control of local Panchayats

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Answer is Wrong!

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2018

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The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) was enacted to extend the provisions of Part IX of the Constitution relating to Panchayats to the Scheduled Areas mentioned in the Fifth Schedule, with certain modifications and exceptions. A key objective and outcome of PESA is to empower the Gram Sabha (village assembly) in Scheduled Areas, giving them significant authority, particularly over the management and control of community resources.

PESA is aimed at ensuring tribal self-rule and empowering the tribal community, primarily through the Gram Sabha. Giving the tribal community greater say over common resources (like land, water, forests, minor forest produce) is a central theme and specific provision of the PESA Act.

Option B is partially true as PESA does devolve powers, and Scheduled Areas are predominantly inhabited by Scheduled Tribes. However, Option A is a more specific and prominent impact, directly addressed by key provisions of the Act regarding ownership of minor forest produce, planning and management of minor water bodies, and mandatory consultation on land acquisition and development projects. Option C is the legislative basis but doesn’t fully capture the spirit and specific provisions. Option D is incorrect as PESA empowers the community/Gram Sabha, not merely the elected Panchayat body derived from the standard system, and gives them control *over* Panchayat decisions in many matters.

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