According to Census of India, 2011, which are the top-three states in descending order with the largest size of Scheduled Tribe (ST) population?

(A) Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra
(B) Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha
(C) Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan
(D) Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Odisha

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is B

Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of tribal communities, including Bhil, Gond, Korku, and Baiga tribes.

Maharashtra's major ST groups include Bhil, Gond, Warli, and Katkari tribes.

Odisha has one of the highest percentages of ST population, with major tribes like Santhal, Munda, and Kandha.

Information Booster:

1. Scheduled Tribes (STs) are officially recognized under Article 342 of the Indian Constitution.
2. Madhya Pradesh has the highest absolute ST population, but Odisha and Chhattisgarh have a higher percentage of STs compared to the total population.
3. India’s tribal population is around 104 million (10.4 crores), making up 8.6% of the total population.
4. Tribal groups are primarily concentrated in central, northeastern, and southern states.
5. The 2021 Census (delayed) will update these statistics, with ST populations expected to rise due to demographic trends.
6. Several government schemes, like Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana and FRA (Forest Rights Act), aim at the development of tribal communities.