Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India is home to a significant tribal population, constituting 8.6% of the total population (Census 2011). These communities, often residing in geographically isolated and resource-constrained regions, face unique socio-economic challenges. ‘Tribal Regions’ are generally defined as areas with a high concentration of Scheduled Tribes, often designated as Scheduled Areas under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution. Planning and development in these regions have been a complex undertaking, evolving from welfare-oriented approaches post-independence to more participatory and rights-based strategies in recent decades, aiming to address historical injustices and promote inclusive growth.
Historical Context of Planning for Tribal Regions
Initial planning efforts, particularly during the First Five-Year Plan (1951-56), focused on welfare measures like providing basic amenities and healthcare. The Community Development Programme (CDP) and the National Extension Service (NES) were implemented, but their impact was limited due to a top-down approach and lack of local participation. The concept of ‘Tribal Sub-Plans’ (TSP) was introduced in the Fifth Five-Year Plan (1974-79), marking a shift towards targeted interventions. TSP aimed to identify and channel funds from various sectoral programs specifically for tribal development.
Constitutional and Legal Framework
The Indian Constitution provides a strong framework for tribal protection and development:
- Article 15: Prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.
- Article 16: Guarantees equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
- Article 46: Promotes the economic and social interests of Scheduled Tribes.
- Fifth and Sixth Schedules: Provide for the administration of Scheduled Areas and Tribal Areas respectively, granting special powers to the Governors and establishing Tribal Advisory Councils.
- The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA): Empowers Gram Sabhas to play a key role in planning and development.
- The Forest Rights Act, 2006: Recognizes the rights of forest dwelling tribal communities over forest resources.
Current Strategies and Schemes
Current strategies focus on a multi-pronged approach:
- Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY): Launched in 2018, it aims to improve tribal livelihoods through value addition of forest produce.
- Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Established to provide quality education to tribal students.
- National Tribal Empowerment Programme (NTEP): An umbrella scheme encompassing various components like scholarships, skill development, and livelihood support.
- TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India): Works to promote the economic development of tribes through marketing and procurement of forest produce.
- GOBARdhan Scheme: Promotes organic biofertilizer from cattle dung, benefiting tribal communities engaged in animal husbandry.
Challenges in Tribal Development
Despite numerous initiatives, several challenges persist:
- Geographical Isolation: Difficult terrain hinders access to basic services.
- Lack of Infrastructure: Poor road connectivity, inadequate healthcare facilities, and limited access to education.
- Land Alienation: Displacement due to development projects and encroachment on tribal lands.
- Forest Rights Issues: Delays in recognizing and implementing forest rights under the FRA, 2006.
- Naxalism and Insurgency: Affects development efforts in several tribal-dominated areas.
- Implementation Gaps: Poor coordination between different departments and lack of effective monitoring.
Recent Developments & Way Forward
The focus is shifting towards empowering tribal communities through self-governance and promoting sustainable livelihoods. Strengthening Gram Sabhas under PESA, ensuring effective implementation of FRA, and promoting skill development aligned with local resources are crucial. Greater emphasis on participatory planning, involving tribal communities in decision-making processes, is essential. Leveraging technology for education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities can also bridge the development gap. Addressing land alienation and ensuring equitable benefit-sharing from natural resources are vital for sustainable tribal development.
Conclusion
Planning and development of tribal regions in India requires a holistic and sensitive approach that recognizes the unique socio-cultural context and historical injustices faced by these communities. While significant progress has been made through various schemes and constitutional provisions, persistent challenges necessitate a renewed focus on empowerment, participation, and sustainable livelihoods. A rights-based approach, coupled with effective implementation and monitoring, is crucial for achieving inclusive and equitable development in tribal regions.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.