Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- Contextual Background: Define Scheduled Tribes and their introduction in the Government of India Act, 1935.
- Thesis Statement: State that Scheduled Tribes are recognized in the Constitution to ensure their protection and upliftment, characterized by distinct cultures and socio-economic challenges.
2. Body
- Organize this section into clear thematic points.
A. Definition and Characteristics of Scheduled Tribes
- Criteria for Inclusion: Discuss the lack of specific criteria in the Constitution for listing tribes, as outlined in Article 342.
- Characteristics: Mention distinct culture, geographical isolation, and socio-economic backwardness.
B. Major Provisions for Upliftment
- Educational, Economic, and Employment Safeguards:
- Article 15(4): Reservation in educational institutions.
- Article 16: Reservation in government posts and services (Articles 16(4), 16(4A), 16(4B)).
- Article 23: Prohibition of human trafficking and forced labor.
- Article 46: Promotion of educational and economic interests, protection from exploitation.
- Article 335: Claims to services and posts for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
- Political Safeguards:
- Article 330 and 332: Reservation of seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
- Article 243D: Reservation of seats in Panchayati Raj institutions.
- Monitoring Agency:
- Article 338A: Establishment of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) to oversee implementation and evaluate safeguards.
3. Conclusion
- Summarize Key Points: Recap the significance of Scheduled Tribes and the constitutional provisions designed for their upliftment.
- Significance: Emphasize the importance of these provisions in promoting social justice and inclusion for tribal communities in India.
Relevant Facts for Use
- Scheduled Tribes Definition: Groups recognized in the Constitution for special protection (Source: Government of India Act, 1935).
- Article 342: Allows the President to specify tribes as Scheduled Tribes for each state or Union Territory.
- Census Data: The 2011 Census identifies over 700 Scheduled Tribes in India (Source: Census of India 2011).
- NCST Role: Tasked with monitoring the implementation of safeguards for Scheduled Tribes (Source: Ministry of Tribal Affairs).
This roadmap provides a structured approach to answering the question, ensuring clarity and relevance while incorporating factual evidence.
Model Answer
Introduction
Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India are groups recognized in the Constitution that receive special protections and provisions for their upliftment. The term “Scheduled Tribes” was first introduced in the Government of India Act, 1935, and is defined in Article 342 of the Constitution. This article empowers the President to specify tribes deemed as Scheduled Tribes for each state or Union Territory through public notification. These tribes are characterized by distinct cultures, geographical isolation, and socio-economic backwardness.
Body
Major Provisions for Upliftment
Conclusion
The Constitution of India enshrines several provisions aimed at the protection and development of Scheduled Tribes. Despite the challenges faced by these communities, the government’s initiatives reflect a commitment to inclusive development, promoting the vision of “Sabka Sath and Sabka Vikas” (Together with all and Development for all). These provisions are crucial for empowering Scheduled Tribes and ensuring their rightful place in society.
Scheduled Tribes in India: Definition and Constitutional Provisions
Why Tribals are Referred to as Scheduled Tribes
In India, tribals are referred to as Scheduled Tribes (STs) because they are specifically listed in the Scheduled Tribes List of the Indian Constitution. This designation is meant to identify and provide special attention to the communities that are socially and economically disadvantaged and have distinct cultural and historical identities. The term “Scheduled” refers to their inclusion in the specific schedules of the Constitution, which recognizes their unique status and the need for targeted welfare measures.
Major Constitutional Provisions for Upliftment
Recent Example
In recent years, the Forest Rights Act (2006) has been instrumental in recognizing the rights of tribal communities over forest land and resources. It aims to rectify historical injustices and ensure that tribal communities have legal claim to their traditional lands.
These constitutional provisions and laws are designed to ensure that Scheduled Tribes receive adequate representation, protection, and opportunities for socio-economic development, thereby helping to uplift and integrate them into the mainstream society.