Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. (UPSC 2016, 2 Marks, )

EN ह

Why the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’?

The tribal communities are referred to as 'the Scheduled Tribes' due to their inclusion in the list of Scheduled Tribes under the Constitution of India. This special status is provided to ensure their protection, upliftment, and preservation of their distinct cultural identity.

Reasons

1. Historical Context:

•   British Administration: The term "Scheduled Tribes" originated during British colonial rule in India.

•   Census Enumeration: The British identified certain communities as tribes and included them in the "Scheduled Tribes" list for census enumeration.

2. Constitutional Provisions:

•   Constitutional Recognition: The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, recognized the distinct identity and needs of tribal communities.

•   Article 342: This article empowers the President of India to specify the tribes or tribal communities which shall be deemed to be Scheduled Tribes.

Major provisions for the upliftment of Scheduled Tribes in the Constitution of India

•   Article 244(1): Creation of Scheduled Areas- This provision empowers the President to declare certain areas in the states as Scheduled Areas, where special provisions for the welfare and advancement of Scheduled Tribes can be made.

•   Fifth Schedule: Administration and Control of Scheduled Areas- This schedule provides for the establishment of Tribal Advisory Councils to safeguard the interests of Scheduled Tribes in the administration of Scheduled Areas.

•   Sixth Schedule: Administration of Tribal Areas- This schedule applies to certain tribal areas in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. It provides for the establishment of autonomous district councils to protect the rights and interests of the tribal communities residing in these areas.

•   Article 15(4): Reservation in Educational Institutions- This provision allows the state to make special provisions for the advancement of Scheduled Tribes by providing reservations in educational institutions.

•   Article 16(4): Reservation in Public Employment- This provision enables the state to provide reservations in public employment for Scheduled Tribes to ensure their representation in government services.

•   Article 46: Promotion of Educational and Economic Interests- This article directs the state to promote the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Tribes and other weaker sections of society, with a focus on minimizing inequalities.

•   Article 275(1): Grants-in-Aid- This provision allows the central government to provide grants-in-aid to the states for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes, including the development of their infrastructure, education, and healthcare facilities.

•   National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (Article 338A): The Constitution provides for the establishment of a National Commission for Scheduled Tribes to safeguard their rights, monitor the implementation of protective measures, and advise the government on tribal welfare policies.

Isolation vs Assimilation approach for tribals

Aspect	Isolation Approach	Assimilation Approach
Definition	Advocates for the separation of tribal communities from mainstream society to preserve their distinct culture and identity.	Advocates for integrating tribal communities into mainstream society, aiming for cultural assimilation and socio-economic development.
Objective	Preservation of tribal culture, customs, and autonomy.	Integration of tribals into the larger society to promote unity and equality.
Policy Examples	Protected areas, restriction on non-tribal entry into tribal lands.	Promotion of education, economic opportunities, and legal rights for tribals in mainstream society.
Impact on Culture	Tribal culture remains distinct and largely unchanged.	Tribal culture may be diluted as integration leads to the adoption of mainstream cultural practices.
Economic Development	Limited economic development due to isolation from mainstream economy and modern amenities.	Enhanced economic opportunities through integration into the larger economy and access to modern infrastructure.
Social Integration	Minimal interaction with non-tribal communities, leading to social exclusion.	Increased social interaction and integration with non-tribal communities, promoting social inclusion.
Government Policy Preference	Often preferred by tribal leaders who want to preserve their traditional way of life.	Preferred by those advocating for equality and modernization of tribal communities.
Examples in India	Areas governed under the Fifth and Sixth Schedules of the Indian Constitution.	Various tribal welfare schemes and educational programs promoting integration, such as Eklavya Model Residential Schools.
Criticism	Can lead to socio-economic stagnation and alienation from national development.	May lead to loss of tribal identity, culture, and traditional knowledge.