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Recent Additions to the Scheduled Tribes List: Case Studies

The Government of India, through its Ministry of Tribal Affairs, has a structured process for the inclusion of communities in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list. This process is critical to ensure that communities that genuinely require special assistance and protection receive it. In this article, we will explore recent additions to the ST list, focusing on specific case studies from Chhattisgarh and Kerala.

Criteria for Inclusion in the ST List

The criteria for determining the characteristics of a community for specification as a Scheduled Tribe include:

1. Indications of primitive traits
2. Distinctive culture
3. Geographical isolation
4. Shyness of contact with the community at large
5. Backwardness

These guidelines ensure that only those communities that meet the above criteria are considered for inclusion. The process involves recommendations from the concerned State Government, concurrence by the Registrar General of India (RGI), and approval by the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST).

Recent Additions to the ST List

Case Study: Chhattisgarh

Abhuj Maria and Hill Korwa Communities

In Chhattisgarh, two communities have been included in the Scheduled Tribes list under the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Act, 2013 (No. 24 of 2013) dated 18-9-2013.

Abhuj Maria

• Entry Number: 16
• Details: The Abhuj Maria community has been recognized for its primitive traits and geographical isolation. Their inclusion in the ST list allows them to access benefits and protections under various government schemes aimed at improving their socio-economic status.

Hill Korwa

• Entry Number: 27
• Details: The Hill Korwa community, known for its distinctive culture and backwardness, has been included in the ST list. This inclusion helps in preserving their cultural heritage while providing necessary developmental support.

Case Study: Kerala

Marati Community

In Kerala, the Marati community of the Hosdurg and Kasargod Taluks of Kasargod District has been included in the Scheduled Tribes list.

• Entry Number: 28
• Details: The Marati community, which exhibits distinctive cultural traits and geographical isolation, has been added to the ST list. This inclusion under the same amendment act as the Chhattisgarh communities aims to uplift their socio-economic conditions and preserve their cultural identity.

State-Wise List of Pending Proposals

While the above communities have successfully been included in the ST list, many proposals are still pending approval. The table below provides a state-wise overview of these pending proposals: