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Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) - UPSC Social Issues
What is Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in UPSC Social Issues?
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) is a key topic under Social Issues for UPSC Civil Services Examination. Key points include: PVTGs are the most vulnerable tribal groups, identified by specific characteristics.. The concept evolved from Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) in 1973 (Dhebar Commission) to PVTGs in 2006.. There are 75 identified PVTGs out of 705 Scheduled Tribes in India.. Understanding this topic is essential for both UPSC Prelims and Mains preparation.
Why is Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) important for UPSC exam?
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) is a Medium-level topic in UPSC Social Issues. It is tested in both Prelims (factual MCQs) and Mains (analytical answer writing). Previous year UPSC questions have frequently covered aspects of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), making it essential for comprehensive IAS preparation.
How to prepare Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) for UPSC?
To prepare Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) for UPSC: (1) Study the comprehensive notes covering all key concepts on Vaidra. (2) Practice previous year questions on this topic. (3) Connect it with current affairs using daily updates. (4) Revise using key takeaways and mind maps available for Social Issues. (5) Write practice answers linking Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) to related GS Paper topics.
Key takeaways of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) for UPSC
- PVTGs are the most vulnerable tribal groups, identified by specific characteristics.
- The concept evolved from Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) in 1973 (Dhebar Commission) to PVTGs in 2006.
- There are 75 identified PVTGs out of 705 Scheduled Tribes in India.
- Key characteristics include homogeneity, small population, physical isolation, simple technology, and slow change.
- Odisha has the highest number of PVTGs.
- Government schemes focus on their holistic development and cultural preservation.
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
Medium⏱️ 8 min read
social issues
📖 Introduction
Understanding Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) represent the most marginalized and vulnerable segments among India's diverse tribal communities.
They are characterized by specific vulnerabilities that set them apart even within the broader Scheduled Tribes category.
Historical Origin: Dhebar Commission and PTGs
The concept of a more vulnerable tribal group originated in 1973 with the recommendations of the Dhebar Commission.
This commission identified a separate category known as Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs), recognizing them as less developed compared to other tribal groups.
The Dhebar Commission (1973) was instrumental in highlighting the unique challenges faced by these groups.
Renaming and Official Identification
In 2006, the Government of India officially renamed the Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
This renaming aimed to better reflect their specific status and the focused interventions required for their upliftment.
Identification Process and Numbers
The process of identifying these most vulnerable groups began in 1975 when the Government of India initiated efforts to categorize them separately.
Initially, 52 such groups were declared as PVTGs. Later, in 1993, an additional 23 groups were added to this category.
Currently, there are a total of 75 PVTGs identified across India, out of the 705 recognized Scheduled Tribes.
Defining Characteristics of PVTGs
PVTGs share several distinct characteristics that underscore their vulnerability and unique developmental needs. These traits often contribute to their isolation and slower pace of change.
- They are largely homogenous in their social structure and cultural practices.
- Typically have a small population size, making them susceptible to demographic decline.
- Often experience relative physical isolation, living in remote and inaccessible areas.
- Many lack a written language, relying on oral traditions for cultural transmission.
- Utilize relatively simple technology, often at a pre-agricultural or subsistence level.
- Exhibit a slower rate of change and integration with mainstream society.
Geographical Distribution
Among the 75 listed PVTGs, the highest concentration is found in the state of Odisha.
Knowing the state with the highest number of PVTGs (Odisha) is a common factual question in UPSC Prelims.
💡 Key Takeaways
- •PVTGs are the most vulnerable tribal groups, identified by specific characteristics.
- •The concept evolved from Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) in 1973 (Dhebar Commission) to PVTGs in 2006.
- •There are 75 identified PVTGs out of 705 Scheduled Tribes in India.
- •Key characteristics include homogeneity, small population, physical isolation, simple technology, and slow change.
- •Odisha has the highest number of PVTGs.
- •Government schemes focus on their holistic development and cultural preservation.
🧠 Memory Techniques
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