National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), History, Members

Introduction: The Constitution of India does not provide a specific description for Scheduled Tribes. Nevertheless, the establishment of the National Commission of Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has brought recognition to various legislations such as the Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act of 1955 and the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) (POA) Act of 1989, which was amended in 2015 along with its Rules in 2016. As this subject holds significance for individuals preparing for the IAS Exam, this article will outline pertinent details about the commission.

What is National Commission for Scheduled Tribes?

Established by the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act in 2003, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes is a constitutional body. It is tasked with promoting the economic development of Scheduled Tribes in India and its responsibilities are outlined in Article 338.

• Before, there existed a single commission for both scheduled tribes and scheduled castes. However, in 2004, following the 89th Constitutional Amendment Act, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) was formed by dividing the original National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes into two separate entities: the NCST and the National Commission for Scheduled Castes
• This modification led to the replacement of the combined National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes with two separate commissions, namely:

1. National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC)
2. National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

Meaning of Scheduled Tribes

As per Article 366(25) of the Constitution, Scheduled Tribes encompass the communities that are listed according to Article 342 of the Constitution. Additionally, Article 342 of the Constitution specifies that Scheduled Tribes consist of tribes, tribal communities, or segments within these groups that have been officially declared by the President through a public notification.

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes – Scheduled Tribes in India

Based on the 2011 Census data, the Scheduled Tribes make up 104 million individuals, constituting about 8.6% of the total population of the nation. These tribes are distributed across various parts of the country, primarily inhabiting forested and mountainous regions.

• The important characteristics of these communities are:-

• Primitive Traits
• Geographical isolation
• Distinct culture
• Shy of contact with the community at large
• Economically backward

• Similar to the approach for the SCs, the aim of empowering the tribal communities is pursued through a three-fold strategy that encompasses social empowerment, economic upliftment, and ensuring social justice.

Composition of National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

The composition of the NCST includes a chairperson, a vice-chairperson, and three full-time members. Among these three members, it is mandatory to have at least one female member. Each member of the Commission serves a term of three years.

Functions of National Commission for Scheduled Tribes

• The NCST investigates and monitors matters related to safeguarding Constitutional provisions for Scheduled Tribes and assesses the effectiveness of these safeguards.
• It examines specific complaints concerning the deprivation of rights and safeguards of Scheduled Tribes.
• The commission participates in and advises on the planning process for the socioeconomic development of Scheduled Tribes and evaluates the progress of developmental activities.
• The President receives an annual report on the functioning of these safeguards, along with additional reports as necessary.
• The NCST provides reports on measures to be undertaken by central and state governments to effectively implement safeguards for the protection, development, and welfare of Scheduled Tribes.
• The commission’s functions extend to areas of welfare, protection, development, and advancement of Scheduled Tribes.

History of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

• The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) was established by the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003. It was bifurcated from the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, which was established in 1992. The NCST came into existence on February 19, 2004.
• The NCST is a statutory body under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India. It has its headquarters in New Delhi and has regional offices in all the states and union territories of India.
• The NCST is headed by a Chairperson, who is assisted by a Vice-Chairperson and four members. The members are appointed by the President of India in consultation with the Prime Minister and the Minister of Tribal Affairs. The members hold office for a term of three years and are eligible for reappointment.
• The NCST has played a significant role in improving the lives of Scheduled Tribes and in ensuring their participation in the national development process. It has taken up a number of cases of atrocities against Scheduled Tribes and has recommended measures for their prevention. The NCST has also promoted the economic and social development of Scheduled Tribes through a number of initiatives.
• The NCST is an important body for the protection and promotion of the rights of Scheduled Tribes in India. It is working towards ensuring that Scheduled Tribes are able to enjoy their rights and participate fully in the national development process.

Members of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

The current members of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) are:

• Chairperson: Harsha Chauhan
• Vice-Chairperson: Ravi Thakur
• These are the following Members of NCST:

1. Anant Nayak
2. Manisha Mishra
3. Manoj Kumar
4. Rajendra Singh Meena
5. K.K. Jha

The NCST is a statutory body established by the Government of India under the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order, 1950. It is an advisory body to the government on matters relating to the welfare and development of Scheduled Tribes. The NCST has its headquarters in New Delhi and has regional offices in all the states and union territories of India.

The members of the NCST are appointed by the President of India in consultation with the Prime Minister and the Minister of Tribal Affairs. The members hold office for a term of three years and are eligible for reappointment.

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) PDF

Candidates can download here National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) PDF for detailed information. The link is provided below. click on the link and download the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) PDF here.

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