Who among the following is Constitutionally empowered to declare a geographic area as a scheduled area?

The correct answer is President.

Key Points

• The President of India is constitutionally empowered to declare a geographic area as a Scheduled Area under Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
• The declaration of Scheduled Areas is made based on the provisions of Article 244(1) of the Indian Constitution.
• Scheduled Areas are regions identified for the protection and advancement of Scheduled Tribes under the Constitution.
• The President can declare an area as a Scheduled Area after consulting with the Governor of the state concerned.
• The objective of such declaration is to ensure the socio-economic and cultural development of the tribal population residing in these areas.

Additional Information

• Scheduled Tribes:
  • Scheduled Tribes (STs) are recognized as socially and economically disadvantaged groups in India.
  • Special provisions like Scheduled Areas aim to protect their rights to land, culture, and governance.
• Fifth Schedule:
  • The Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution deals with the administration and control of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes.
  • It includes provisions for the establishment of Tribal Advisory Councils and the Governor's role in regulating laws in such areas.
• Article 244:
  • Article 244 of the Indian Constitution provides for the administration of Scheduled Areas and Tribal Areas.
  • Clause (1) refers to the Fifth Schedule, while Clause (2) pertains to the Sixth Schedule, which deals with tribal areas in northeastern states.
• Role of the Governor:
  • The Governor is responsible for submitting reports to the President regarding the administration of Scheduled Areas.
  • The Governor has the power to make regulations for the peace and good governance of these areas.