GS-1:Salient features of Indian Society;Social Empowerment

In News: Shompen of Nicobar prize their freedom above all

2.Examine the constitutional provisions enshrined in the Indian Constitution for the upliftment of Scheduled Tribes. To what extent have these provisions been effective in addressing the historical and contemporary challenges faced by STs?

The Indian Constitution incorporates several provisions aimed at the upliftment of Scheduled Tribes (STs), recognizing their historical marginalisation and ensuring their rights and welfare.

Key constitutional provisions:

1. Article 342: President specifies Scheduled Tribes in consultation with state governors.This classification is essential for implementing various protective measures.
2. Article 330 and Article 332: Provide for the reservation of seats for STs in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, ensuring political representation.
3. Article 243: Mandates the reservation of seats for STs in Panchayati Raj institutions, promoting grassroots governance.
4. Article 46: State to promote educational and economic interests of STs and protect against exploitation.
5. Fifth Schedule: Administration of Scheduled Areas with special provisions for tribal protection.
6. Article 275: Grants-in-aid from the Union government for ST welfare.
7. Educational and Employment Safeguards: Articles 15(4) and 16(4) allow for special provisions in education and employment to ensure adequate representation of STs.

Effectiveness:
● Political representation: Reservation policies have increased political representation, allowing ST leaders to voice concerns and advocate for tribal rights. However, the actual influence of these representatives often remains limited due to systemic barriers.
● Educational initiatives: Programs like Eklavya Model Residential Schools have improved access to education, yet challenges such as quality of education and dropout rates persist.
● Economic development: Financial assistance through Article 275 has facilitated various development projects, but many ST communities still face poverty and lack access to basic services.
● Land rights: Despite constitutional safeguards, land alienation continues to be a significant issue, often exacerbated by developmental projects that disregard tribal rights.
● Cultural preservation: While Articles 29 and 350 protect cultural rights, rapid urbanisation and globalization threaten traditional lifestyles and languages.
● Displacement issues: Development projects often lead to forced displacement, disrupting livelihoods and community cohesion

By addressing these issues, the constitutional provisions can be made more effective in ensuring the upliftment of Scheduled Tribes and their equitable participation in Indian society.

PYQ

1. What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence, addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)?2017
2. 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.2016
3. How do you explain the statistics that show that the sex ratio in Tribes in India is more favourable to women than the sex ratio among Scheduled Castes?2015

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/shompen-people-prize-their-freedom-above-all/article68722210.ece#:~:text=They%20are%20concerned%20that%20their,%2C%E2%80%9D%20Mr.%20Pandit%20says.