Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP), now known as the Schemes for the Development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), was a landmark initiative launched in 1975 by the Government of India. It stemmed from the realization that general development programs were not adequately reaching tribal communities, leading to their continued marginalization. Rooted in Article 46 of the Constitution, which directs the state to promote the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Tribes, the TSP aimed to address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of these communities through a focused and targeted approach. The core principle was ‘earmarking’ funds from general sector ministries for tribal development.
Main Objectives of the Tribal Sub-Plan
The TSP’s objectives can be broadly categorized into several key areas:
1. Socio-Economic Development
- Poverty Reduction: A primary objective was to alleviate poverty among tribal communities by providing livelihood opportunities and access to essential resources. This included supporting agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and minor forest produce (MFP) based activities.
- Land Reforms: Addressing historical injustices related to land ownership and ensuring secure land tenure for tribal communities was crucial. Implementation of land ceiling acts and distribution of surplus land were key components.
- Infrastructure Development: Improving infrastructure in tribal areas, including roads, irrigation facilities, housing, and sanitation, was essential for enhancing their quality of life.
2. Educational Development
- Increased Literacy: The TSP aimed to increase literacy rates among tribal populations, particularly women, through the establishment of schools, residential schools (Ashram Schools), and adult education programs.
- Improved Quality of Education: Focus was placed on improving the quality of education by providing trained teachers, relevant curriculum, and learning materials tailored to the needs of tribal students.
- Scholarships and Incentives: Providing scholarships and other financial incentives to encourage tribal students to pursue higher education.
3. Health and Nutrition
- Improved Healthcare Access: Expanding healthcare facilities and services in tribal areas, including primary health centers (PHCs), community health centers (CHCs), and mobile health units.
- Combating Malnutrition: Addressing malnutrition among tribal children and women through supplementary nutrition programs, immunization drives, and health education.
- Traditional Healthcare Systems: Recognizing and integrating traditional healthcare systems and practices into the mainstream healthcare delivery system.
4. Cultural Preservation
- Protection of Tribal Culture: The TSP aimed to protect and promote the unique cultural heritage of tribal communities, including their languages, art forms, festivals, and traditional knowledge.
- Strengthening Tribal Institutions: Supporting and strengthening traditional tribal institutions and self-governance structures.
- Documentation of Tribal Knowledge: Documenting and preserving traditional knowledge related to medicine, agriculture, and other fields.
5. Empowerment and Participation
- Political Representation: Ensuring adequate representation of tribal communities in political institutions and decision-making processes.
- Capacity Building: Building the capacity of tribal communities to participate effectively in development programs and governance.
- Legal Awareness: Promoting legal awareness among tribal communities about their rights and entitlements.
In 2014, the TSP was restructured into schemes specifically targeting PVTGs, recognizing their greater vulnerability. The focus shifted towards conservation of their unique culture and traditions, improving their socio-economic conditions, and providing them with access to basic amenities.
Conclusion
The Tribal Sub-Plan, despite its initial promise, faced challenges in implementation, including inadequate funding, lack of inter-departmental coordination, and insufficient community participation. While the restructuring into PVTG-focused schemes represents a positive step, sustained efforts are needed to address the systemic issues hindering tribal development. A holistic approach that prioritizes empowerment, cultural preservation, and equitable access to resources remains crucial for achieving inclusive and sustainable development for tribal communities in India.
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.