Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati expressed serious concern about the long-term delay in the effective implementation of the framework rules of the Panchayats (Extended to Program Area) Act (PESA) Regulations (PESA) (PESA) (PESA) in the state. He urged the state government to form a senior task force to speed up the process and ensure the correct implementation of key legislation affecting tribal communities.
The governor made the proposal Friday while presided over a comprehensive review meeting of the Ministry of Welfare of ST and SC development, minority and backward classes.
The Governor stressed the participation of multiple departments in the implementation of the PESA and the Forest Rights Act (FRA), and the Governor proposed that a dedicated working group led by the Chief Minister could significantly improve inter-departmental coordination, promote joint programs, and address ongoing administrative challenges.
The governor reiterated his concern about delays and directed officials to speed up the formulation of PESA rules without further delays. He further emphasized the constitutional mandate of meetings of the Tribal Advisory Committee at least twice a year, emphasizing its importance in safeguarding the interests of tribal communities.
Emphasizing the need for effective financial management, Dr. Kambhampati advocates ambitious fund utilization goals. “If we aim for 120% utilization, achieving at least 100% of the target will be a realistic goal,” he said.
The governor raised concerns about the infrastructure gap in tribal-dominated areas, highlighted the logistical challenges of deploying equipment for mobile connectivity and called for a focused, region-specific development plan.
To better assess the situation at the grassroots level, he announced plans to interact directly with project administrators to review progress and understand the obstacles facing tribal development projects.
