Provisions of Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act

The Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), grants tribal communities in designated Scheduled Areas greater control over local governance. It empowers Gram Panchayats (village councils) to manage local resources, prevent land alienation, and develop infrastructure. PESA recognizes tribal customs, traditions, and decision-making processes, allowing them to govern according to their social and cultural practices. It also limits interference from state governments, ensuring tribes can preserve their way of life while participating actively in local administration, resource management, and development initiatives.