UPSC Prelims 2025 PYQ – Fifth Schedule of the Constitution

Consider the following statements:

With reference to the Constitution of India, if an area in a State is declared as Scheduled Area under the Fifth Schedule:

I. The State Government loses its executive power in such areas and a local body assumes total administration.
II. The Union Government can take over the total administration of such areas under certain circumstances on the recommendations of the Governor.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation:
Correct Answer: d) Neither I nor II.

The Fifth Schedule of the Constitution deals with administration and control of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes in states (except Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram).

Statement 1: Incorrect. The State Government retains its executive power in Scheduled Areas, though the Governor has a special responsibility and must submit reports to the President. Tribes Advisory Councils are also set up for welfare and advancement of STs.
Statement 2: Incorrect. The Fifth Schedule does not empower the Union Government to take over total administration of such areas. Instead, the Governor can direct modifications or exceptions in laws of Parliament or the State Legislature for these areas.