Correct Option
The correct option is 1 & 2 only
Explanation
The Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) extends the provisions of Part IX of the Constitution to the Fifth Schedule Areas with specific safeguards for tribal communities. It empowers the Gram Sabha as a central institution of self-governance in Scheduled Areas.
Statement 1: Correct. PESA provides that the Gram Sabha shall have the power to prevent alienation of land in the Scheduled Areas and to take appropriate action to restore unlawfully alienated land of a Scheduled Tribe. This reflects constitutional protection of tribal land rights under the Fifth Schedule framework.
Statement 2: Correct. The Act explicitly recognizes the ownership of minor forest produce by the Gram Sabha in Scheduled Areas. This provision strengthens community control over local forest resources and supports livelihood rights of tribal populations.
Statement 3: Incorrect. PESA requires prior recommendation of the Gram Sabha or the Panchayats at the appropriate level for grant of prospecting licence or mining lease for minor minerals. It does not mandate such recommendation for all categories of minerals. Therefore, the statement is overbroad in scope.
Key Takeaway: Under PESA, Gram Sabha possesses decisive powers over land alienation, minor forest produce, and minor minerals in Scheduled Areas, but its mandatory recommendation is confined to minor minerals and not all minerals.