Scheduled Areas are constitutionally designated regions in India with a significant tribal population, governed by special provisions under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution. The primary objective is to protect the cultural identity, economic interests, and land rights of tribal communities, and to ensure their participation in governance. The President of India declares an area as a Scheduled Area, and the Governor of the respective state has special responsibilities regarding its administration. A Tribal Advisory Council (TAC) advises the Governor on matters pertaining to tribal welfare. The Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996, further empowers Gram Sabhas (village assemblies) in these areas, granting them control over natural resources, minor forest produce, and local development, aiming to foster self-governance and protect tribal customary laws.