gs1medium
In the areas covered under the Panchayat (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 what is the role/ power of Gram Sabha?
- 1.Gram Sabha has the power to prevent alienation of land in the scheduled area.
- 2.Gram Sabha has the ownership of minor forest produce.
- 3.Recommendation of Gram Sabha is required for granting prospecting licence or mining lease for any mineral in the scheduled areas.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.Only 1
- B.1 and 2 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: B. 1 and 2 only
The PESA Act, 1996, empowers Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas to safeguard their land and resources. It explicitly grants them the authority to prevent land alienation and recognize their ownership of minor forest produce. Furthermore, any prospecting or mining lease for minerals requires the Gram Sabha's recommendation, ensuring tribal communities have a say in the exploitation of their natural wealth.
Source: UPSC gs1 2012