The Indian Constitution recognizes the diversity of its population, including numerous tribal communities. Within these, certain groups face disproportionately higher challenges, leading to their classification as "Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups" (PVTGs). This categorization, introduced in 1996, acknowledges their unique vulnerabilities and necessitates targeted interventions. These groups, often characterized by smaller populations, geographical isolation, and limited access to resources, require specialized attention for their socio-economic development and cultural preservation. Understanding PVTGs is crucial for effective policy formulation and implementation in India. Defining PVTGs PVTGs, previously known as Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs), are a subset of Scheduled Tribes (STs) recognized by the Indian Constitution. The term was officially adopted in 1996 by the Working Group on Vulnerable Tribal Groups, led by D. Manimala. The identification of PVTGs is based on several criteria, signifying their distinct vulnerabilities. Criteria for Identification The identification criteria, as outlined by the Manimala Committee, include: Population Size: Generally, groups with a population of less than 10,000. Geographical Isolation: Living in remote, inaccessible areas with limited connectivity. Backwardness: Significant backwardness in terms of socio-economic indicators like literacy rates, health, and access to infrastructure. Cultural Distinctiveness: Maintaining unique cultural identities and traditional practices. As of 2023, there are 75 recognized PVTGs in India. These are spread across various states, with a significant concentration in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. Reasons for Vulnerability Several factors contribute to the vulnerability of PVTGs: Resource Depletion: Loss of traditional land and forest resources due to mining, deforestation, and development projects. Lack of Access: Limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Social Discrimination: Facing social stigma and discrimination from dominant communities. Exposure to Diseases: Higher susceptibility to diseases due to poor sanitation and lack of healthcare. Forced Displacement: Displacement due to development projects and conflict. Government Initiatives Recognizing the specific needs of PVTGs, the government has implemented several initiatives: TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing and Development Federation): Focuses on promoting tribal products and livelihoods. Special Central Assistance (SCA) Scheme: Provides financial assistance to states for focused interventions in PVTG areas. Grameen Vikas Kendras: Multi-purpose service centers providing access to various services. Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana: A scheme to improve tribal livelihoods by promoting forest-based products. Eklavya Model Residential Schools: Provides quality education to tribal children. Case Study: Bonda Tribe (Odisha) The Bonda tribe of Odisha exemplifies the challenges faced by PVTGs. They live in a geographically isolated region and have historically relied on forest resources for sustenance. Deforestation and displacement due to development projects have significantly impacted their traditional way of life, leading to increased poverty and vulnerability. TRIFED's efforts to promote Bonda handicrafts have provided some economic relief, but sustainable development requires a holistic approach addressing their land rights and cultural preservation. State Number of PVTGs Odisha 13 Jharkhand 8 Chhattisgarh 6 Madhya Pradesh 5 Maharashtra 4 In conclusion, PVTGs represent a critical segment of India’s tribal population, facing unique and complex challenges that demand targeted and sustainable interventions. Recognizing their vulnerabilities and addressing the root causes of their marginalization is crucial for inclusive development and ensuring the preservation of their distinct cultures. A holistic approach combining economic empowerment, social justice, and cultural sensitivity is essential for uplifting these communities and securing their future.

The Concept of PTG (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups) | UPSC Mains ANTHROPOLOGY-PAPER-II 2014

The concept of PTG

How to Approach

This question requires a concise explanation of the concept of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). The approach should involve defining PVTGs, outlining the criteria for identification, discussing the reasons for their vulnerability, and briefly mentioning the government initiatives aimed at their welfare. A structured response, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by these communities, is crucial. The answer should demonstrate understanding of the social and anthropological context of these groups.

Defining PVTGs

PVTGs, previously known as Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs), are a subset of Scheduled Tribes (STs) recognized by the Indian Constitution. The term was officially adopted in 1996 by the Working Group on Vulnerable Tribal Groups, led by D. Manimala. The identification of PVTGs is based on several criteria, signifying their distinct vulnerabilities.

Criteria for Identification

The identification criteria, as outlined by the Manimala Committee, include:

Population Size: Generally, groups with a population of less than 10,000.
Geographical Isolation: Living in remote, inaccessible areas with limited connectivity.
Backwardness: Significant backwardness in terms of socio-economic indicators like literacy rates, health, and access to infrastructure.
Cultural Distinctiveness: Maintaining unique cultural identities and traditional practices.

As of 2023, there are 75 recognized PVTGs in India. These are spread across various states, with a significant concentration in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh.

Reasons for Vulnerability

Several factors contribute to the vulnerability of PVTGs:

Resource Depletion: Loss of traditional land and forest resources due to mining, deforestation, and development projects.
Lack of Access: Limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
Social Discrimination: Facing social stigma and discrimination from dominant communities.
Exposure to Diseases: Higher susceptibility to diseases due to poor sanitation and lack of healthcare.
Forced Displacement: Displacement due to development projects and conflict.

Government Initiatives

Recognizing the specific needs of PVTGs, the government has implemented several initiatives:

TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing and Development Federation): Focuses on promoting tribal products and livelihoods.
Special Central Assistance (SCA) Scheme: Provides financial assistance to states for focused interventions in PVTG areas.
Grameen Vikas Kendras: Multi-purpose service centers providing access to various services.
Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana: A scheme to improve tribal livelihoods by promoting forest-based products.
Eklavya Model Residential Schools: Provides quality education to tribal children.

Case Study: Bonda Tribe (Odisha)

The Bonda tribe of Odisha exemplifies the challenges faced by PVTGs. They live in a geographically isolated region and have historically relied on forest resources for sustenance. Deforestation and displacement due to development projects have significantly impacted their traditional way of life, leading to increased poverty and vulnerability. TRIFED's efforts to promote Bonda handicrafts have provided some economic relief, but sustainable development requires a holistic approach addressing their land rights and cultural preservation.

State	Number of PVTGs
Odisha	13
Jharkhand	8
Chhattisgarh	6
Madhya Pradesh	5
Maharashtra	4

Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Scheduled Tribes (STs)

Constitutional term for specific tribal communities in India, identified based on criteria like distinct culture, language, and geographical isolation, and included in a list for special provisions.

Nomadic Tribal Groups (NTGs)

Groups that traditionally move from place to place, often for livelihood purposes. Many NTGs are also classified as PVTGs due to their unique vulnerabilities and marginalization.

Key Statistics

As of 2011, the total population of PVTGs is approximately 2.8 million, representing less than 2% of the total tribal population in India.

Source: Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India

Literacy rates among PVTGs are significantly lower than the national average, often below 30%.

Source: Census of India, 2011

Examples

Onge Tribe (Andaman & Nicobar)

The Onge tribe of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a PVTG, faces challenges related to cultural assimilation and the impact of tourism on their traditional way of life. Their unique cultural practices and language are under threat.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the difference between Scheduled Tribes (STs) and PVTGs?

All PVTGs are STs, but not all STs are PVTGs. PVTGs are a subgroup of STs identified as particularly vulnerable based on specific criteria like population size, geographical isolation, and backwardness.