16-November-2023-Editorial

PRADHAN MANTRI PVTG DEVELOPMENT MISSION

The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 has witnessed a substantial increase in the budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. This surge reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by tribal communities in India. The budget emphasizes a holistic approach, aiming to uplift tribal populations by providing essential amenities, educational opportunities, and sustainable livelihoods.

Increased Budgetary Allocation:

• The budgetary outlay for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has witnessed a remarkable surge of 70.69%, reaching Rs. 12,461.88 crore compared to the previous year’s Revised Estimate (RE) of Rs. 7,301.00 crore.
• This significant increase underscores the government’s focus on tribal development and welfare, aligning with its broader vision for inclusive growth.

Key Announcements:

Pradhan Mantri PVTG Development Mission:

• Allocation of Rs. 15,000 crore for the next three years.
• Aims to saturate Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) families and habitations with basic facilities, including housing, clean water, sanitation, education, healthcare, connectivity, and livelihood opportunities.

National Sickle Cell Elimination Mission:

• Jointly implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
• Focuses on preventive, curative, and management aspects of sickle cell disease.

Recruitment for Ekalavya Model Residential Schools:

• Plans to recruit a total of 38,000 teachers and support staff for Ekalavya Model Residential Schools.
• Aims to benefit 3.5 lakh tribal students.

Development Action Plan for Scheduled Tribes (DAPST):

• Allocation of Rs. 1,17,943.73 crore.
• Reflects the government’s commitment to comprehensive development for Scheduled Tribes.

Budgetary Evolution:

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has observed a substantial increase in budgetary allocation over the years, rising from Rs. 4,295.94 crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 12,461.88 crore in 2023-24, marking a remarkable increase of approximately 190.01%.

Development Action Plan for Scheduled Tribes (DAPST):

• Formerly Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP), DAPST witnesses fund allocations from 41 Ministries/Departments ranging from 4.3% to 17.5% of their total scheme allocation.
• The fund allocation has increased significantly, from Rs. 21,525.36 crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 1,17,943.73 crore in BE 2023-24.

Minister’s Perspective:

• Shri Arjun Munda, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, applauds the comprehensive budget, emphasizing benefits and equal opportunities for tribals in remote areas.
• The Ministry aims to collaborate with other central ministries for the upliftment, empowerment, and welfare of tribals, aligning with the government’s vision.

Socio-Economic Progress:

• Considerable improvements in socio-economic conditions of Scheduled Tribes, with literacy rates rising from 59% (2011) to 71.6% (PLFS report, 2020-21).
• Positive trends in Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) at different education levels signify progress in educational access for ST students.

Special Focus Areas:

Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS):

• 5,943 crore allocated for accelerated construction.
• New schools being constructed to benefit tribal students, emphasizing natural sports talent, science, computer labs, skill development, art, craft, and music.

Livelihood for Tribal Families:

• 288 crore provision through TRIFED to provide remunerative livelihoods.
• Focus on Van Dhan Vikas Kendras, organic farming, medicinal plants, millets, and food processing.

Scholarship to ST Students:

• 2,531 crore allocated to provide scholarships to ST students from class IX to Ph.D. levels.

PM Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana:

• 1,485 crore provided for the comprehensive development of villages with a significant tribal population.

Grant Support to States:

• 1,472 crore allocated to provide grants to States with ST populations for the development of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes.

Conclusion:

The enhanced budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Tribal Affairs in the fiscal year 2023-24 reflects the government’s commitment to the comprehensive development and welfare of Scheduled Tribes.

The strategic focus on education, healthcare, livelihood, and infrastructure projects is poised to bring about positive socio-economic transformations in tribal communities, aligning with the broader goals of inclusive growth and equal opportunities.