The launch of the Centre of Excellence on PESA at IGNTU, Amarkantak is a significant step towards empowering tribal communities and enhancing decentralized governance in India. This initiative focuses on capacity building, research, and cultural preservation to support the implementation of the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA).
Background
The Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, or PESA Act, empowers tribal Gram Sabhas with self-governance in the Fifth Schedule Areas. However, challenges in implementation have been observed, leading to the establishment of a Centre of Excellence at IGNTU to address these issues.
Significance of the Initiative
- Historic collaboration between the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of Madhya Pradesh, and IGNTU.
- Strategic location of IGNTU in a tribal-dominated region for community empowerment.
- Alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat for inclusive development.
Objectives of the MoU
- Strengthen institutional mechanisms for effective PESA implementation.
- Build community capacities through training and awareness programs.
- Act as a hub for participatory planning, research, and policy innovation.
- Preserve tribal heritage, customs, and traditional knowledge systems.
- Promote grassroots democracy and leadership among tribal representatives.
Key Features and Functions
- Awareness Generation: Design and dissemination of IEC materials for PESA awareness.
- Participatory Planning: Support tribal Gram Panchayats in preparing GPDPs.
- Leadership Development: Capacity building of elected tribal leaders.
- Customary Law Documentation: Preserve tribal legal systems and practices.
- Research and Innovation: Support academic research for PESA implementation.
- Institutional Support: Provide technical assistance to PESA resource centers.
Launch of “PESA in Action” Compendium
At the inaugural event, the Ministry unveiled “PESA in Action: Stories of Strength and Self-Governance”, a compendium highlighting best practices and community-driven governance innovations from PESA-implementing states.
Expected Outcomes
- Effective implementation of PESA provisions.
- Regular training modules for officials and tribal representatives.
- Documentation of traditional tribal knowledge and customs.
- Strengthened institutional ecosystems for sustainable development.
- Empowered Gram Sabhas for self-governance in tribal regions.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Understanding of the PESA Act and its significance for tribal communities.
- Importance of capacity building and community empowerment in governance.
- Role of research and cultural preservation in promoting inclusive development.
- Significance of partnerships in implementing government policies effectively.
- Impact of grassroots democracy on sustainable and inclusive development.
