Vulnerable Sections

Model Answer

Challenges Faced by Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)

1. Outdated Classification and Data Deficiency
   • The current PVTG list is outdated and repetitive, with overlaps such as Mankidia and Birhor in Odisha being considered separate groups.
   • Baseline surveys exist for only 40 of the 75 PVTGs, limiting effective policymaking.
     (Source: Anthropological Survey of India)
2. Impact of Developmental Projects
   • Large-scale projects like dams, mines, and industries often displace PVTGs, leading to loss of habitat and traditional livelihoods.
     (Source: Ministry of Tribal Affairs, India)
3. Livelihood Vulnerabilities
   • Reduced access to forests and environmental changes threaten their dependence on Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs). Middlemen often exploit them due to limited market knowledge.
4. Health Crises
   • PVTGs face high incidences of diseases like malaria, anemia, and gastrointestinal disorders, compounded by inadequate healthcare and vulnerability to external pathogens.

Measures to Address the Challenges

1. Comprehensive Data Collection
   • Conduct updated surveys on population, health, education, and vulnerabilities. Create vulnerability indices for targeted intervention.
2. Rights-Based Development
   • Protect land and habitat rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and safeguard traditional livelihoods through supportive policies.
3. Healthcare Enhancement
   • Implement community-specific health programs and improve preventive and curative healthcare systems for PVTGs.
4. Culturally Sensitive Education
   • Develop curricula that respect cultural practices and integrate traditional knowledge, such as agro-biodiversity and local crafts.
5. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
   • Foster collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, and local communities for time-bound and inclusive development programs.

With a focused and inclusive approach, PVTGs can achieve sustainable growth and integration into mainstream development frameworks.

Model Answer

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play a crucial role in the development landscape of India, contributing significantly to governance, policy advocacy, and welfare programs.

Constructive Role of CSOs

1. Promoting Good Governance: CSOs like the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan have advocated for transparency and accountability, exemplified by their demand for the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
2. Policy Advocacy: CSOs engage in dialogues with the government to empower marginalized groups. For instance, ‘Save the Children India’ works on child rights and social welfare policies.
3. Active Development Partners: NGOs such as ‘Pratham’ and ‘Asha’ contribute to education in underserved areas, while the Paani Foundation works to make villages drought-free through community mobilization.
4. Mobilizing Citizens and Resources: CSOs involve communities in development planning, creating infrastructure and addressing local needs, enhancing community participation.

Challenges Faced by CSOs

1. Financial Constraints: Many CSOs struggle with inadequate funds due to limited capacity of local beneficiaries and declining international donations.
2. Staffing Issues: A significant gap exists in the availability of trained professionals in the voluntary sector, with many workers being underqualified.
3. Accountability Concerns: Transparency issues arise, especially regarding financial management, leading to misuse of funds in some cases.
4. Government Interface: Interaction with the government can be challenging, with bureaucratic inertia and overbearing officials hindering effective cooperation.

Solutions

Addressing these challenges requires fostering dialogue between CSOs and the government, investing in skill development, and implementing social audits for better accountability. These steps will ensure the sustainability and efficiency of civil society efforts in India.

(Adapted from content on the role and challenges of CSOs in India).