With reference to the Constitution of India, if an area in a State is declared as Scheduled Area under the Fifth Schedule, which of the following statements is/are correct?
I. The State Government loses its executive power in such areas and a local body assumes total administration.
II. The Union Government can take over the total administration of such areas under certain circumstances on the recommendations of the Governor.
- A.I only
- B.II only
- C.Both I and II
- D.Neither I nor II
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: D. Neither I nor II
The Fifth Schedule empowers the Governor, on behalf of the President, to make specific laws applicable to Scheduled Areas. While the State government's executive power is not entirely lost, it is modified, and tribal advisory councils and specific administrative mechanisms are put in place. The Union Government can direct a state regarding the administration of Scheduled Areas, but it does not 'take over' total administration in the manner described; rather, it ensures the execution of its directives.
Source: UPSC gs1 2025