Which among the following is a subject included in the 11th Schedule of Indian Constitution?

The correct answer is Minor Forest Produce.

Key Points

• The 11th Schedule of the Indian Constitution was added through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, which focuses on empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions.
• The schedule contains 29 subjects that are delegated to Panchayats for local governance and decision-making.
• Minor Forest Produce is one of the subjects listed in the 11th Schedule, which highlights the role of Panchayats in managing and utilizing forest resources sustainably.
• Examples of Minor Forest Produce include bamboo, tendu leaves, honey, lac, and medicinal plants. These resources are critical for the livelihoods of rural and tribal communities.
• The inclusion of Minor Forest Produce in the 11th Schedule enables Panchayats to ensure equitable distribution and sustainable use of these resources.

Additional Information

• 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act
  • This amendment granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and introduced the concept of grassroots democracy in India.
  • The 11th Schedule specifies the functional areas of Panchayats, aiming at decentralized governance and decision-making.
  • The amendment empowers local bodies to address issues directly affecting rural communities.
• Minor Forest Produce (MFP)
  • MFP refers to non-timber forest products such as fruits, seeds, leaves, and resins, which are essential for the sustenance of tribal and rural populations.
  • Items like bamboo, tendu leaves, and medicinal plants play a vital role in rural economies.
  • Government initiatives like the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for MFP aim to protect the income of forest-dependent communities.
• Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)
  • PRIs are decentralized administrative bodies established to govern at the village, intermediate, and district levels.
  • They are responsible for implementing development programs and managing subjects listed under the 11th Schedule.
  • PRIs act as a bridge between the government and rural communities, ensuring that welfare schemes reach grassroots levels effectively.
• Other Subjects in the 11th Schedule
  • The 11th Schedule includes subjects like agriculture, irrigation, animal husbandry, rural development, public health, sanitation, and public distribution systems.
  • These subjects aim to empower Panchayats to handle issues directly impacting rural and local communities.