RANCHI, Jan. 3 -- In a step towards strengthening self-governance in the scheduled areas of the state, the Jharkhand government has notified the 'Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Jharkhand Rule -2025', giving powers to the traditional Gram Sabhas, officials said on Saturday.

With implementation of the much-awaited PESA Rule, the Gram Sabhas would be empowered to take decision through common participation of people in sectors including sale/purchase of land, management of resources like forest produce, water bodies and minor minerals, opening of liquor shops, besides conducting open hearing and deciding on persons accused of petty crimes in their jurisdiction, with powers to grant monetary punishment.

The H...