¨     Two-day PESA Mahotsav in Visakhapatnam on December 23-24.

¨     On 23 December, the two-day PESA Mahotsav has been commenced by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in Visakhapatnam to mark the anniversary of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996.

¨     The event organised to spread awareness about the PESA Act and to strengthen Gram Sabha-led governance in Scheduled Areas.

¨     The PESA Act is aimed at empowering tribal communities by extending Panchayati Raj institutions to Scheduled Areas.

¨     The Mahotsav is focused on enhancing the capacity of Gram Panchayats and reinforcing the constitutional role of Gram Sabhas.

¨     The Government of India’s commitment to community-led governance and tribal empowerment was highlighted by Joint Secretary Mukta Shekhar.

¨     The event is used as a platform to showcase tribal culture and traditional governance practices.

¨     The PESA Mahotsav mascot “Krishna Jinka” was unveiled during the inaugural programme.

¨     Around 1,500 participants from 10 states took part in sports events, traditional games and cultural programmes.