After Maoism, the next battle is for Adivasi trust

The article discusses the government's post-Maoist strategy for integrating Adivasis in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, focusing on welfare and development by 2031. It highlights the importance of democratic values, cooperation, and effective delivery of welfare schemes. Crucially, the author argues that true integration and trust require addressing deeper structural issues, particularly the earnest implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) (PESA) Act, 1996. The PESA Act, with its emphasis on Gram Sabha's decisive powers over community resources and customary laws, is presented as key to delivering justice and ensuring participatory governance for Adivasis, contrasting it with instances where state governments have attempted to dilute its provisions.