About the Scheme
Development program for villages with significant Scheduled Tribe population
Target Beneficiaries: Scheduled Tribe population residing in identified villages across India
Implementing Agency: Ministry of Tribal Affairs (in coordination with State/UT governments and local bodies)
Key Features
- Integrated development across 8 sectors: Road Connectivity, Telecom Connectivity, Drinking Water & Sanitation, Health & Nutrition, Education, Livelihood, Energy, and Cultural & Sports
- Village Development Plan (VDP) prepared through a participatory approach involving Gram Panchayats
- Gap-filling funds provided by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs for identified interventions
- Convergence with other Central and State Government schemes for holistic development
- Focus on villages with more than 50% Scheduled Tribe population and at least 500 ST individuals
- Robust monitoring mechanism through an online portal and MIS system
Eligibility Criteria
- Villages with a minimum of 50% Scheduled Tribe population
- Villages with a minimum of 500 Scheduled Tribe persons
- Identified by State/UT governments based on demographic criteria
- Villages not already covered under similar intensive development programs
Benefits
- Improved access to basic services and infrastructure in tribal villages
- Enhanced livelihood opportunities and income generation for tribal communities
- Better health and education outcomes for tribal populations
- Overall socio-economic upliftment and empowerment of Scheduled Tribes
Application Process
- Identification of eligible villages by State/UT governments based on demographic criteria
- Preparation of a comprehensive Village Development Plan (VDP) by Gram Panchayats/Village Level Committees
- Approval of the VDP by District and State Level Committees
- Submission of approved VDPs and proposals to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs for fund allocation
- Release of funds to State/UT governments for implementation of approved activities
- Monitoring and evaluation of progress by central and state authorities
Budget Allocation
75000000000
UPSC Relevance
GS Paper: GS2
Prelims Relevance7%
Mains Relevance8%
Syllabus Tags
Tribal Welfare SchemesSocial Justice and EmpowermentRural Development in IndiaScheduled Tribes Development PoliciesPanchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA)Inclusive Growth and Regional DisparitiesGovernment Initiatives for Vulnerable Sections