Maharashtra Governor demands for a stronger follow up of Forest Rights and Panchayat Acts

Maharashtra Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao on Saturday asked President Pranab Mukherjee to direct the Central Government to put in place stronger follow-up and review mechanisms for the implementation of the laws such as the Forest Rights Act and Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA).

"Without this, the dream of self-reliant and empowered village communities and Panchayats will not be possible," Rao said, during an interaction which the President had with Governors and Lt Governors through video conference using the National Knowledge Network from the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

"Maharashtra has certain areas which are governed by the Fifth Schedule. Viewing the gravity of prevailing situation in these areas, I have issued some notifications under the Fifth Schedule to bring amendments to some of the Acts which were earlier not in line with PESA Act," an official release quoted Rao as saying.

Through these Notifications the ownership of all minor forest produce, including bamboo and tendu (plants), has been given to Gram Sabhas, he said.

"I have special responsibilities under Article 371 [2] of the Constitution to ensure balanced regional development. I am carrying out this responsibility through directives to the Government regarding budget allocations and through regular reviews of the implementation of these directives," the Governor said.

He also informed the President about appointing nine goodwill ambassadors for the Swachha Bharat Abhiyan and about his participation in the Abhiyan.