Normal 0 false false false EN-IN X-NONE X-NONE The Twelfth Five Year Plan (2012–2017) included specific provisions for the development and welfare of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India. Let’s delve into some of the key aspects related to STs during this period:
Scheduled Tribes Population:
As of the 2001 Census, the ST population constituted 8.2% of the country’s total population.
Unlike Scheduled Castes (SCs), who are dispersed throughout the country, STs have traditionally been concentrated in about 15% of India’s geographical areas, mainly forests, hills, and remote regions.
Most STs live in isolated groups in relatively remote areas, making it challenging to deliver essential services to them.
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs):
Within the ST population, there are 2.59 million individuals (approximately 3.07%) belonging to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
PVTGs were earlier referred to as Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs).
There are 75 identified PVTGs spread across 17 States/UTs.
Challenges and Strategies:
Due to the remoteness of their locations, STs face limitations in benefiting from general development programs.
The Twelfth Five Year Plan recognized the need for special efforts to ensure that STs receive adequate benefits.
The strategy included a multi-pronged approach to address their unique circumstances.
Focus Areas:
SC artisans and entrepreneurs face challenges in marketing their products.
The plan proposed creating a permanent marketing institution at the national level, similar to TRIFED, to facilitate the marketing of products manufactured by Scheduled Caste entrepreneurs/artisans.
