Local Governments and Decentralised Planning in Scheduled Areas of Odisha: Case Study of a Tribal District

Abstract

This paper traces the process of the formulation of Decentralised Planning in the Tribal Regions of Odisha while examining the case of Sundargarh District. The paper also tries to provide an analytical glimpse between the powers devolved to the Local Governments in the Scheduled Areas of Odisha to formulate Decentralised Planning and ground reality of preparation of such plans in the context of the implementation of the Provisions of Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA Act). Formulation of Decentralised Planning in Odisha was taken up in the year 2008. However, based on the secondary data and field experience, the paper has revealed that “structural impediments” and “functional incapacity” of the Local Governments in the Scheduled Areas have hampered the spirit of such institutions with regard to the planning and implementation of the development programs. The paper argues that Decentralised Plans should be realistic based on the effective utilisation of local resources. Local development issues should be prioritised and implementation should be done accordingly. The issues of participation, prioritisation of development needs and rationalisation of the required and available funds are suggested as policy measures considering the provisions of the PESA Act.