Context: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) has requested the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGI) to consider enumerating particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) separately in the upcoming Census.
Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups. Mains: Challenges faced by PVTGs & significance of Separate Enumeration.
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups
- PVTGs are a sub-category of Scheduled Tribes (STs) created based on the recommendations of the Dhebar Commission (1960-61) which had investigated the various issues faced by STs, and in consultation with state governments.
- The Commission identified the disparity in socio-economic and living conditions between different tribal groups, and said that some tribal groups were more vulnerable than others. They are characterised by:
- either a declining or stagnant population
- geographical isolation
- use of pre-agrarian practices (such as hunting and gathering)
- economic backwardness
- relatively low literacy
- 75 PTVGs have been identified across the country, spread over 18 states and 1 Union Territory (Andaman & Nicobar). Among the 75 listed PVTGs, the highest number are found in Odisha (13), followed by Andhra Pradesh (12).
Challenges Faced by PVTGs:
- Outdated List: Baseline survey has not been conducted in States and UT’s which is impacting the implementation of welfare programmes designed for PVTGs. Moreover, regular census does not comprehensively capture data of PVTGs. The criteria for identifying PVTGs is questionable, especially the marker of geographical isolation.
- Land Alienation: A mounting pressure from external groups who seize their lands for various purposes such as mining, industrialisation, and other uses, leading to the displacement and forfeiture of traditional livelihoods for numerous PVTGs.
- Lack of Access to basic services: Due to a dearth of infrastructure and resources in their remote regions, as well as discriminatory and neglectful treatment by government officials, PVTGs frequently encounter impediments to obtaining basic amenities such as healthcare, education, and clean water.
- Exploitation: PVTGs are often subject to exploitation and discrimination by more powerful groups, including non-tribal populations and the government. They are often denied their rights to resources, participation in decision-making processes, and representation in government bodies.
- Socio-Cultural: PVTGs have a unique culture and way of life, but they are increasingly under threat of assimilation into mainstream society. This is due to factors like education, urbanisation, and migration, which can erode traditional knowledge and practices. Impact of
- Climate Change: PVTGs are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, which can impact their livelihoods and access to natural resources. This includes changes in rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and increased frequency of natural disasters like floods and droughts.
Way Forward
- Conducting a Baseline Survey: A comprehensive survey should be conducted to identify PVTGs living in different parts of the country to capture critical information about PVTGs, such as their population size, geographical location, economic conditions, social and cultural practices, and access to basic amenities like health care, education, and livelihood opportunities.
- Developing a Vulnerability Index: A vulnerability index should be developed for each PVTG based on factors such as health, education, livelihood, and social protection, among others. It will enable policymakers to tailor interventions that are targeted and effective.
- Rights-based Approach: Suitable measures should be taken for protection and promotion of their rights (especially to their land rights and customary habitats). Strict controls need to be imposed so that no development can take place on PVTGs land and habitats without their free, prior, and informed consent.
- Livelihood strategies: Development of livelihood strategies for PVTGs should factor in their often nomadic lifestyle and their unique skills and indigenous knowledge. Focus should be on conservation and enhancement of their traditional skills. E.g., Todas in dairy and horticulture.
- Governance: There is a need to develop a comprehensive framework to assist the PVTGs in a manner that empowers them to determine their own development path at their own pace.
- Service Delivery: Service providers need to be well incentivised to perform their duties and remain stationed in the areas where PVTGs reside. Residential clusters should be created where government officials of different categories and different departments can be accommodated.
- Accountability Mechanism for officials: Ensure the accountability of government officials working in the areas of PVTGs.
Significance of Separate Enumeration of PVTGs
PVTGs have never been enumerated separately in any census, till date.
- Separate Enumeration of PVTGs would accurately capture the number of PVTG households, individuals, and their distinctive demographic, cultural and socio-economic features, and issues.
- Such information would help in the better implementation of targeted schemes for PVTGs, such as the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN), and other government schemes, especially in health and education. It will help in understanding if the PVTG classification criteria is still relevant.
Also Read: Tribal Welfare Outreach Campaign Launched Across 500+ Districts in India