National Workshop on PESA Act in Jharkhand
The Department of Panchayati Raj, Government of Jharkhand, is set to host a National Workshop on the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA Act) in Ranchi on December 24, 2024. This workshop aims to raise awareness about the provisions of the PESA Act, which plays a crucial role in empowering local governance in tribal regions. The event will feature prominent speakers, including Smt. Deepika Pandey Singh, the Minister of Panchayati Raj, who will deliver the keynote address. Other key figures from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj will also participate, emphasizing the importance of the PESA Act in enhancing governance in Scheduled Areas.
Significance of the PESA Act
The PESA Act, enacted on December 24, 1996, is a landmark legislation designed to empower Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas. It grants these local bodies the authority to manage natural resources and make decisions that affect their communities. This act is particularly significant for tribal communities, as it aims to protect them from exploitation and ensure their rights are upheld. The PESA Act is a testament to the government’s commitment to preserving the social, economic, cultural, and political rights of Scheduled Tribes.
The upcoming workshop will serve as a platform for stakeholders to discuss the Act’s objectives and achievements. It will also address the challenges faced in its implementation, such as delays in state-specific PESA rules and the need for comprehensive training materials. By fostering dialogue among various stakeholders, the workshop aims to strengthen the implementation of the PESA Act and enhance local governance in tribal areas.
Engaging Stakeholders for Effective Implementation
Jharkhand is on the verge of finalizing its PESA Rules, which will align with the PESA Act. The National Workshop will engage various stakeholders, including elected representatives, Gram Sabha members, and officials from relevant departments. The discussions will focus on the critical role of the PESA Act in empowering local governance and safeguarding community rights.
The workshop will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, and cultural presentations that highlight the rich heritage of tribal communities. Participants will deliberate on traditional Gram Sabha practices and their integration with Panchayat governance. This collaborative approach aims to generate actionable outcomes that will benefit the targeted communities and enhance their governance structures.
A Broader Initiative Across PESA States
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has urged ten PESA States—Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Telangana—to organize awareness and capacity-building activities. These initiatives aim to engage key stakeholders actively and highlight the PESA Act’s features and potential.
Through interactive sessions and meaningful discussions, the focus will be on empowering Gram Sabhas and ensuring effective implementation of the PESA Act. The collective efforts of these states will play a crucial role in raising awareness and fostering inclusive growth in Scheduled Areas. This initiative aligns with the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, to enhance the living conditions of tribal communities and create an enabling environment for their development.
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