Government Pushes Digital Reforms and Stronger Gram Sabhas

Government Discusses Mobilisers’ Demands, Digital Reforms, Training, and Better Grassroots Governance

The Maharashtra government has taken another step toward strengthening tribal self-governance by reviewing the implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA). During a detailed meeting held on Wednesday with the PESA Mobilisers Sangharsh Samiti, the state discussed key demands raised by mobilisers and explored ways to improve the functioning of Gram Sabhas across PESA areas.

The meeting focused on enhancing governance through better digital systems, improved training, and stronger support for field-level workers to ensure effective implementation of the PESA Act.

Focus on Strengthening the PESA Bhumi Digital Platform

One of the major topics discussed was the improvement of the PESA Bhumi digital system. Officials reviewed measures to ensure that Gram Sabha meeting records, resolutions, and proceedings are updated regularly, making local governance more transparent, organized, and efficient.

The government also highlighted the importance of using digital tools to simplify administrative processes and improve monitoring of PESA-related activities across tribal regions.

Training and Clear Guidelines for PESA Mobilisers

The meeting placed significant emphasis on building the capacity of field staff. Officials discussed providing regular training programs for women employees and other grassroots workers involved in implementing the PESA Act.

At the same time, PESA mobilisers will receive clearer operational guidelines outlining their responsibilities, duties, and working procedures. The objective is to help mobilisers perform their roles more effectively while improving coordination between local communities and government departments.

Review of Central Government Guidelines

The state also examined the implementation of directions issued by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan.

Discussions included the proposal to revise the sanctioned strength of Gram Sabha Mobilisers and appoint one dedicated mobiliser for every PESA Gram Panchayat. To ensure smooth implementation, district-level authorities have been instructed to take the necessary administrative steps in line with existing guidelines.

Current System to Continue Until Final Decision

The Maharashtra government clarified that the current operational framework for PESA implementation will continue until the Central Government takes a final decision on the proposed structural changes related to Gram Sabha Mobilisers.

This approach is intended to maintain continuity in administration while allowing sufficient time for policy decisions at the national level.

Commitment to Stronger Tribal Governance

The discussions also focused on strengthening Gram Sabhas under the PESA Act, protecting the rights of tribal communities, and ensuring that government welfare schemes reach eligible beneficiaries efficiently.

By reinforcing local self-governance and empowering grassroots institutions, the government aims to improve development outcomes in Scheduled Areas while encouraging greater community participation in decision-making.

Senior Ministers and Officials Attend the Review Meeting

The review meeting was attended by Maharashtra Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Jaikumar Gore, Tribal Development Minister Ashok Uike, Rural Development Department Secretary Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar, Tribal Development Department Secretary Vijay Waghmare, along with senior government officials.

The discussions reflected the state's continued efforts to improve PESA implementation through stronger coordination, digital modernization, and enhanced support for local governance institutions.