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PM Launches Rs.24,000-crore PM PVTG Development Mission

  • 17 Nov 2023

On 15th Nov, Prime Minister inaugurated the PM PVTG Development Mission, a Rs. 24,000-crore initiative for the comprehensive development of around 28 lakh Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

  • Simultaneously, he disbursed the 15th PM-Kisan instalment of Rs. 2,000 each to over 9 crore farmers nationwide.

Key Points

  • Holistic Development Initiative: The PM PVTG Development Mission, launched during the Jan Jaatiya Gaurav Divas event in Jharkhand, aims to enhance the holistic development of an estimated 28 lakh tribal population.
  • Release of 15th PM-Kisan Instalment: PM disbursed Rs. 18,610 crore, including Rs. 16,220 crore for 8.11 crore farmers, as the 15th instalment for the August-November period, addressing arrears from previous instalments.
  • Launch of PM JANMAN: The Prime Minister announced the PM Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) under the PM PVTG Development Mission, aiming to connect with tribal groups and primitive tribes residing in forests.
  • Identification of Tribal Communities: Seventy-five tribal communities and primitive tribes in more than 22,000 villages have been identified under PM JANMAN for upliftment and development.
  • Launch of 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra': The Prime Minister initiated the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra,' a mission to reach every village and ensure every deprived individual benefits from government schemes, culminating on January 26 next year.

Scheduled Tribes in India: Key Demographic Insights

Population Statistics

  • According to the 2011 Census, Scheduled Tribes constitute 104 million individuals, making up 8.6% of India's total population.
  • These tribes are predominantly located in forested and hilly regions across the country.

Characteristics of Scheduled Tribes

  • Primitive Traits: These communities exhibit primitive traits, reflecting traditional practices.
  • Geographical Isolation: Often found in geographically isolated areas.
  • Distinct Culture: Maintain a unique and distinct cultural identity.
  • Shy of Contact: Generally, avoid extensive interaction with the larger community.
  • Economically Backward: Face economic challenges, characterized by lower economic development.

Government Initiatives

  • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs was established in 1999, focusing on the integrated socio-economic development of Scheduled Tribes.
  • Objective: To achieve the holistic development of Scheduled Tribes in a coordinated and planned manner.
  • Three-Pronged Strategy
    • Social Empowerment
    • Economic Empowerment
    • Social Justice

Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG): Understanding Vulnerability

  • Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) are the most vulnerable among tribal communities.
  • Identified in 1975, there are currently 75 PVTGs out of 705 Scheduled Tribes.
  • These groups face increased vulnerability due to the allocation of tribal development funds to more developed tribes.

Characteristics of PVTGs

  • Population: Stagnant or declining.
  • Technology: Primarily pre-agricultural.
  • Literacy Level: Extremely low literacy rates.
  • Economy: Operate at subsistence levels.

Government Schemes for PVTGs: Focused Development Initiatives

  • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs administers the 'Development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)' scheme.
  • Centrally Sponsored Scheme: Provides 100% Central assistance to 18 states and the Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
  • Aim: Comprehensive socio-economic development while preserving the cultural and heritage aspects of PVTGs.
  • Implementation: State Governments execute projects tailored for education, health, and livelihood within the PVTG community.