Autonomous District Councils are statutory, self-governing bodies established under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to administer tribal areas, primarily in Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura.

Facts to Know About

• It enables tribal communities to govern themselves and preserve their cultural practices.
• It can make laws on land, forests, inheritance, and village administration.
• They can levy taxes, fees, and tolls on land, buildings, animals, and vehicles.
• The sixth schedule autonomous councils exist in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura.
• The other autonomous councils do not enjoy the same powers as sixth schedule areas.
• The district council shall consist of not more than 30 members. At least four members will be nominated by the Governor.
• There shall be a separate Regional Council for each area constituted an autonomous region.
• The elected members of the District Council shall hold office for a term of five years/
• The district council is empowered to make rules for efficient management of the council based on local needs.

Challenges Associated

• Councils face severe shortage of funds due to lack of financial autonomy.
• Due to location within tribal population majority areas they have conflicts with traditional tribal leadership.
• Inspite of focus to development these areas are mostly neglected n creating newer infrastructure facilities.

Source: The Hindu