Government schemes for PVTGs

Who are PVTG?

Spread across 17 states and one Union Territory, the 75 PVTGs inhabit diverse ecological landscapes ranging from serene plains and lush forests to rugged hills and remote, inaccessible areas. These groups also differ from each other culturally. Their development is of utmost importance through social, economic, and educational development, which is characterized by limited access to development resources and infrastructure. For example, some PVTGs, such as the Sentinelese of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are grappling with the challenges of a declining population. The Government of India has been instrumental in meeting the development needs of PVTG communities by implementing dedicated schemes since the 1990s. The Prime Minister’s Specially Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) Development Mission, introduced in the Union Budget 2023–24, is an important step forward. The mission is designed to improve the socio-economic status of PVTGs and bridge the gap in health, education, livelihood, and infrastructure. Collaborating closely with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, UNDP is actively strengthening the implementation of tribal development programs and policies at both the central and state levels....

What are Scheduled Tribes?

The term ‘Scheduled Tribe’ first appeared in the Constitution of India. Article 366(25) of the Constitution of India defines Scheduled Tribes as “such tribes or tribal communities or parts or groups of such tribes or tribal communities as are, for the purposes of this Constitution, recognized as Scheduled Tribes under Article 342; it is believed.”. Article 342 lays down the procedure to be followed in the case of the specification of Scheduled Tribes. Based on the 2011 census, Scheduled Tribes constitute 8.6% of India’s population, comprising 104 million individuals. Provisions related to the administration of tribal areas are made in the 5th and 6th schedules of the Constitution....

What are the 5th and 6th schedules?

The Indian Constitution defines the term “scheduled area” as the area where the tribal population resides. The central government makes special efforts to protect these scheduled areas because it is important to preserve the cultures and ethnicities of the tribal population. The central government also makes efforts to protect the economic interests of the tribal population in the scheduled areas. In this sequence, some special provisions have been made in the 5th Schedule and 6th Schedule of the Indian Constitution regarding the scheduled areas. The 5th Schedule and 6th Schedule determine which areas fall under the classification of Scheduled Areas. Through the table below, you can develop an important understanding of the 5th Schedule and 6th Schedule of the Constitution:...

Criteria for Identifying PVTGs

The most vulnerable among the tribals are 75 groups classified as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) spread across 18 states and the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Some standards have been set to identify them, which are as follows:...

What are the Characteristics of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups?

In 1973, the Dhebar Commission recommended creating a separate category for the Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs), which are the least developed tribal groups. In 2006, the Government of India renamed PTGs as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). PVTGs have some basic characteristics: they are mostly homogenous, with a small population, relatively physically isolated, social institutions cast in a simple mold, absence of written language, relatively simple technology, slow rate of change, etc....

How many PVTGs are there in India?

There are 75 groups of the most vulnerable sections among the tribals, who are classified as the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), spread over 18 states and the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These groups are eligible for all the development and welfare schemes that are available to all citizens of India. They are also eligible for the STC of the Central and State Governments, as well as the schemes implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Tribal Welfare Departments of the State Governments. See the table below for a state-wise list of PVTGs in India:...

Growth of Scheduled Tribes in India

Census Total population of Scheduled Tribes in lakhs Percentage of Scheduled Tribes to Total Population 1951 225 6.23 1961 302 6.87 1971 380 6.94 1981 538 7.58 1991 678 8.08 2001 848 8.20 2011 1,043 8.61...

Issues faced by PVTGs in India

There are many challenges faced by PVTGs. Some of those challenges are:...

Government schemes for PVTGs

The Government of India has announced the Prime Minister’s PVTG Development Mission in the Budget 2023–24. The mission aims to improve the socio-economic conditions of particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) by saturating PVTG households and settlements with basic amenities such as safe housing, clean drinking water and sanitation, education, health and nutrition, improved access to roads, telecommunication connectivity, and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. An availability of Rs 15,000 crore is envisaged from the Development Action Plan for Scheduled Tribes for the activities to be carried out over the next three years under the Mission....

Important Facts about Scheduled Tribes

Fact Description Definition Scheduled Tribes (STs) are indigenous communities or tribes in India recognized by the Constitution of India. They are listed in a schedule or list prepared by the President of India. Population As of the latest available data, STs constitute about 8.6% of India’s population, totaling around 104 million people. However, the population figures can vary based on different surveys and data sources. Geographical Distribution STs are spread across various states and union territories of India, with significant populations found in states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and others. Socio-Economic Status Historically marginalized, STs often face socio-economic challenges including poverty, lack of access to education, healthcare, and basic amenities. Efforts have been made by the government to improve their socio-economic conditions through various welfare schemes. Cultural Diversity India’s Scheduled Tribes consist of numerous distinct tribal groups, each with its own language, customs, traditions, and cultural practices. These communities contribute significantly to India’s cultural diversity and heritage. Legal Safeguards The Constitution of India provides various safeguards and affirmative actions for the welfare and development of STs, including reservations in legislative bodies, educational institutions, and government jobs. Forest Dwellers Many STs traditionally inhabit forest areas and are dependent on forest resources for their livelihoods. The Forest Rights Act, 2006, recognizes their rights over forest land and resources, aiming to empower them and ensure their participation in forest governance. Vulnerabilities STs often face challenges such as displacement due to development projects, exploitation, land alienation, and conflicts over resources. These vulnerabilities highlight the need for targeted policies and interventions to protect their rights and well-being....

Conclusion

Understanding the dynamics of Scheduled Tribes and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups is essential for addressing the unique challenges these communities face. The government’s initiatives and missions underscore the commitment to uplift these groups, ensuring their socio-economic well-being and preserving their cultural heritage. Ongoing efforts toward inclusive development and conservation play a vital role in fostering sustainable growth for these marginalized communities....

FAQs: Characteristicsof Scheduled Tribes and PVTG: An Overview

What do you mean by PVTG?...