Tribals in Rajasthan seek more panchayats in scheduled areas

Tribals in Rajasthan seek more panchayats in scheduled areas

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –  Panchayati Raj Institutions

In news The tribal outfits in Rajasthan have demanded inclusion of over 165 village panchayats of seven districts in the scheduled areas under the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP). 

• The tribal groups said the population of Scheduled Tribes in these panchayats had crossed 50%, making them eligible to be declared as scheduled areas. 
• The objective of the demand is to facilitate the control of local communities over minor minerals and minor forest produce as well as development activities in the region. 
• It will also ensure statutory protection of the tribal population.
• Consequently, the provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, will apply to these areas.
  • The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 or PESA is a law enacted by the Government of India for ensuring self-governance through traditional Gram Sabhas for people living in the Scheduled Areas of India.
• The tribal groups have also been spearheading a movement for creation of a separate State, Bhil Pradesh, to be carved out of the tribal-dominated areas of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

News Source: TH