Ministry of Panchayati Raj
Secretary Shri Vivek Bharadwaj addresses the valedictory session of the second Two-Day Regional Conference on Strengthening of PESA at Ranchi, Jharkhand today
Posted On: 05 MAR 2024 5:07PM by PIB Delhi
Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj Shri Vivek Bharadwaj addressed the valedictory session of the second Two-Day Regional Conference on Strengthening of PESA at Ranchi, Jharkhand today. In his address, Secretary Shri Vivek Bharadwaj emphasized on the Government’s commitment to prioritize the implementation of schemes like PM–JANMAN Yojana in saturation mode, in line with the vision of the Prime Minister. He stressed the importance of ensuring uninterrupted delivery of benefits of government schemes to all the eligible beneficiaries.
Reflecting on the insights gathered over the two-day PESA Conference, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj emphasized the need for practical solutions and sensitivity in addressing challenges. He highlighted the importance of regular communication and collaboration among various Departments and stakeholders for effective implementation of PESA. Shri Bharadwaj announced plans for a National Conference on PESA in the presence of political leadership to further advance the agenda of PESA. Shri Vivek Bhardwaj reiterated the importance of effectively implementing and strengthening The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA).
Secretary Shri Bharadwaj emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum and urged all participants to carry forward the work with a definitive strategy to implement PESA Act. Recognizing the pivotal role of Gram Sabhas and public participation in Gram Sabha meetings, he stressed the need for collective strong will at the community level and encouraged learning from best practices for genuine empowerment of the tribal communities. The Union Secretary underlined the importance of proper resource utilization to propel development forward, emphasizing the spirit of inclusivity and leaving no one behind in society. A call to action was made, highlighting the crucial role of civil society organizations and NGOs in ensuring compliance with the PESA Act.
Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar; Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Panchayati Raj, Government of Jharkhand, Dr. Rajeev Arun Ekka; Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Smt. Mamta Varma and Director, Department of Panchayati Raj, Government of Jharkhand Smt. Nesha Oraon were also present during the deliberations held on the second day of the Conference.
Engaging discussions on (i) Role of Non-Government Stakeholders in strengthening implementation of PESA and (ii) Enforcement of Forest Rights Act in PESA areas were the highlights of the concluding day of the Regional Conference to help facilitating knowledge-sharing among participants, fostering commitment towards achieving the objectives of PESA. Insightful presentations on various aspects of PESA implementation offered valuable insights and actionable recommendations. Case studies and success stories from different regions provided inspiration and guidance for participants seeking to enhance their own efforts.
The Conference organized by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj concluded focusing on the strengthening and effective implementation of The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, popularly known as the PESA Act. The Regional Conference held on 4 – 5 March 2024, garnered significant momentum towards the successful and targeted implementation of PESA and achieved its objectives, with active participation and insightful contributions from all participants, paving the way for further progress in PESA Act implementation. The participants from five participating States viz. Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha and Telangana left the valedictory session filled with enthusiasm and hope, anticipating positive changes at the grassroots level as a result of their collective efforts. The Regional Conference in Ranchi concluded with a resounding resolution to maintain the momentum for the successful, envisioned and effective implementation of PESA.
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