Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India's rich cultural mosaic includes numerous tribal communities, many of whom are categorized as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). These groups represent the most marginalized and socio-economically disadvantaged among the Scheduled Tribes, facing unique challenges due to their isolation, traditional practices, and limited interaction with mainstream society. The concept of PVTGs emerged from the Dhebar Commission's recommendations in 1973, aiming to provide a distinct focus for the development and protection of these highly vulnerable communities. Understanding their identifying criteria, current status, and distribution is crucial for crafting effective and culturally sensitive policies for their upliftment.
Identifying Criteria for PVTGs
The Dhebar Commission (1960-61) first recommended the identification of 'Primitive Tribal Groups' (PTGs) which were later renamed 'Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups' (PVTGs) in 2006. The Government of India uses a combination of socio-economic and demographic features to identify these groups. The primary criteria for identifying PVTGs are:- Pre-agricultural Level of Technology: Many PVTGs still rely on traditional subsistence practices such as hunting, gathering, and shifting cultivation, indicating a pre-agricultural or early agricultural stage of economy.
- Low Level of Literacy: These groups generally exhibit extremely low literacy rates compared to other tribal or general populations, often due to geographical isolation and lack of access to educational facilities.
- Economic Backwardness: PVTGs are characterized by a subsistence-level economy, often leading to extreme poverty, food insecurity, and malnutrition. Their economic activities are primarily primitive and lack diversification.
- Declining or Stagnant Population: A crucial indicator is a declining or stagnant population growth rate, which highlights their fragile demographic status and vulnerability to various external factors like diseases and loss of traditional livelihoods.
Nomenclature: From PTG to PVTG
The term 'Primitive Tribal Groups' (PTGs) was initially coined by the Dhebar Commission in 1973 to categorize the most vulnerable tribal communities. In 1975, the Government of India formally identified 52 such groups. An additional 23 groups were added in 1993, bringing the total to 75. In 2006, the Government of India officially renamed PTGs to 'Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups' (PVTGs). This change in nomenclature was a deliberate move to replace the potentially derogatory connotation of "primitive" with a more appropriate and respectful term that emphasizes their heightened vulnerability and the need for focused development interventions.
Current Status of PVTGs
PVTGs represent a sub-classification within Scheduled Tribes, signifying their greater vulnerability. Their current status is marked by several challenges:
- Population: As of recent estimates (habitation-level surveys in 2023-2024 for PM JANMAN scheme), the total PVTG population is around 47.5 lakh (4.75 million). This figure has seen variations in recent governmental estimates, highlighting the challenge in accurate enumeration without a dedicated census. The 2011 Census data estimated the PVTG population at approximately 27.68 lakh.
- Demographic Trends: Many PVTGs continue to face stagnant or declining populations, particularly in regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where groups like the Great Andamanese and Sentinelese have alarmingly small numbers.
- Socio-economic Challenges: They suffer from high rates of poverty, food insecurity, malnutrition, and limited access to healthcare and education. Common health issues include anemia, respiratory problems, malaria, and gastrointestinal disorders. The average literacy rate among PVTGs remains significantly lower than the national average.
- Habitat Rights: Under Section 3(1)(e) of The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA), PVTGs are eligible for Habitat Rights. This grants communities rights to their traditional territory, socio-cultural practices, livelihoods, and protection of their natural and cultural heritage. As of now, several PVTGs in states like Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh have been granted habitat rights.
- Government Initiatives: The Government of India, through the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, implements specific schemes like the 'Development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)' scheme (operational since 2008) and the recently launched 'Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN)' (November 2023) to address their critical gaps in housing, water, sanitation, education, health, and livelihood.
Distribution of PVTGs in India
There are 75 officially identified PVTGs spread across 18 states and one Union Territory (Andaman & Nicobar Islands). Their distribution often reflects their geographical isolation, typically residing in dense forests, remote hills, or isolated islands.
State-wise Distribution and Notable PVTGs:
| State/UT | Number of PVTGs | Notable PVTGs (Examples) |
|---|---|---|
| Odisha | 13 (Highest number of communities) | Saora, Bondo, Juang, Dongria Kondh, Lanjia Saora, Mankidia, Paudi Bhuiya |
| Madhya Pradesh | 7 | Baiga, Bharia, Abujh Maria, Hill Korba |
| Andhra Pradesh (including Telangana) | 12 | Chenchu, Kondareddis, Konda Savaras, Thoti, Gadabas |
| Bihar (including Jharkhand) | 9 | Asur, Birhor, Sauria Paharia, Mal Paharia |
| Gujarat | 5 | Kathodi, Kolgha, Kotwalia, Padhar, Siddi |
| Chhattisgarh | 7 | Abujhmadia, Baiga, Birhor, Kamar, Pahadi Korwa |
| Kerala | 5 | Cholanaikayan, Kadar, Kattunayakan, Koraga, Kurumbas |
| Tamil Nadu | 6 | Irular, Kattunayakan, Kota, Kurumbas, Paniyans, Toda |
| Andaman & Nicobar Islands | 5 | Great Andamanese, Jarawas, Onges, Sentinelese, Shom Pens |
Odisha has the highest number of PVTG communities (13), while states like Punjab and Haryana have no identified PVTGs. The Saura community of Odisha is among the largest PVTGs by population, whereas groups like the Sentinelese have extremely small populations.
Conclusion
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups represent a critical segment of India's population requiring special attention for their survival and development. Their identification criteria highlight their deep-rooted socio-economic disadvantages and unique cultural identities. The shift in nomenclature from 'Primitive' to 'Particularly Vulnerable' underscores a more empathetic approach towards these communities. Despite various governmental initiatives, PVTGs continue to face significant challenges, necessitating targeted, culturally sensitive, and holistic development strategies. Recognizing their habitat rights and ensuring their participation in policy formulation are crucial steps towards their inclusive growth and the preservation of their distinct heritage.
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