A two-day PESA Mahotsavam began in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, to commemorate the enactment of the Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas Act, commonly known as PESA. The event is being organised to raise awareness about the Act and its role in strengthening local self-governance in Scheduled Areas, particularly in tribal regions.
The Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas Act was enacted to extend the provisions of the Panchayati Raj system to Scheduled Areas, empowering gram sabhas with decision-making authority over local resources, development projects, and social welfare initiatives. The Act aims to ensure that tribal communities have a greater say in governance and that development activities align with their needs and traditions.
The PESA Mahotsavam brings together government officials, elected representatives, tribal leaders, and community members. Various sessions are being held to discuss the implementation of the Act, challenges faced at the grassroots level, and measures to improve awareness and participation among local communities. Experts and administrators are also sharing insights on best practices for effective governance under the PESA framework.
Cultural programmes and exhibitions are an integral part of the event, showcasing tribal heritage, traditions, and art forms. These activities aim to highlight the cultural diversity of Scheduled Areas while reinforcing the link between traditional practices and modern governance systems. Awareness campaigns and interactive sessions are being conducted to educate people about their rights and responsibilities under the Act.
Officials have emphasised that strengthening gram sabhas is central to the successful implementation of PESA. The Mahotsavam is being used as a platform to encourage active participation of villagers in local decision-making processes, including matters related to land, water, forests, and social welfare schemes.
The event also focuses on the role of Panchayats in implementing government welfare programmes effectively. Discussions are being held on improving transparency, accountability, and coordination between various levels of administration. Participants are being encouraged to share feedback and suggestions to improve policy implementation in Scheduled Areas.
Andhra Pradesh has a significant tribal population, and the effective implementation of PESA is considered crucial for inclusive development. The state government has been taking steps to strengthen governance structures in Scheduled Areas through capacity-building programmes and policy initiatives. The PESA Mahotsavam is seen as part of these efforts to deepen democratic participation at the grassroots level.
By marking the enactment of the Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas Act, the two-day event in Visakhapatnam seeks to reaffirm the commitment to decentralised governance and tribal empowerment. The Mahotsavam is expected to contribute to greater awareness, stronger institutions, and improved governance outcomes in Scheduled Areas across the state.
