Bhopal,July 25: In a landmark move to strengthen grassroots governance in tribal regions, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh and Indira Gandhi National Tribal University (IGNTU), Amarkantak, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Centre of Excellence on PESA.

The initiative aims to enhance the implementation of the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), and promote inclusive, participatory development.

The Centre will serve as a hub for research, capacity building, participatory planning, and policy support, aligning with the broader goals of tribal empowerment and localized sustainable development. The MoU, formalized for an initial period of three years, envisions long-term collaboration to deepen engagement with tribal communities across India’s Fifth Schedule Areas.

The event also witnessed the launch of the compendium “PESA in Action: Stories of Strength and Self-governance”, which showcases best practices, legal provisions, and field innovations from PESA-implementing states. Senior dignitaries including Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and Prof. Byomakesh Tripathy, Vice-Chancellor (I/c), IGNTU, graced the occasion.

A panel discussion on “Strengthening PESA through Capacity Building, Research and Institutional Support” highlighted the importance of resilient institutions in sustaining policy outreach and empowering tribal communities.

The Centre will focus on promoting awareness of PESA, facilitating participatory Gram Panchayat Development Planning (GPDP), documenting customary laws, and preserving tribal cultural heritage. It will also support state and district-level PESA resource centres and develop IEC materials to enhance outreach.

This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to translating the spirit of PESA into action and aligns with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

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