An examination of the'many firsts' in Indian tribal assistance programs

Following decades of systematic disregard and marginalization, India's tribal people are progressively emerging from the periphery of society. According to government sources, they are not only bridging gaps but also embracing their heritage, empowering their young people, expanding access to healthcare, and creating economic opportunities.

Increased funding, the creation of Eklavya Model Residential Schools, the goal to eradicate sickle cell anemia, and measures to conserve and promote tribal cultural heritage are some of the major programs assisting tribal communities in addressing the historical inequities.

Among the other firsts is the notable fivefold rise in funding for the Scheduled Tribes' (STs') "Development Action Plan," which went from less than Rs 24,600 crore in 2013–14 to Rs 1.23 trillion in 2024–25.

 
Enrollment in a redesigned tribal education system has increased from 34,000 in 2013–14 to more than 130,000 in 2023–24. A government source claimed that the expansion of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) was a major factor in this change, as the number of schools virtually quadrupled from 123 to 476 in just ten years. Three million tribal students are currently enrolled in government scholarship programs each year.

India is now addressing a health issue that disproportionately impacts tribal people with the launch of the first-ever Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission. According to sources, more than 46 million people have already undergone screening, with a target of 70 million by three years.

Promoting the history of tribal freedom fighters is one of the methods the Center has implemented to conserve the cultural heritage of tribal populations. Notably, his birth anniversary has been designated as "Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas" in honor of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

The creation of 3,900 "Van Dhan Vikas Kendras" to encourage entrepreneurship among the tribal population, programs like the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan scheme, and the "Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyaan" for the comprehensive development of tribal areas are some other significant reforms.