About the Commission

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) at a Glance

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is a constitutional body in India established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A in the Constitution through the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003. Prior to this amendment, the erstwhile National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was replaced by two separate Commissions: The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), effective from 19 February 2004.

Background and Establishment

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is a constitutional body established under Article 338-A of the Indian Constitution. It plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights, welfare, and development of Scheduled Tribes (STs) across India.

Composition:

•  The NCST consists of the following members: 
  
  • Chairperson: Holds the rank of a Union Cabinet Minister.
  • Vice-Chairperson: Holds the rank of a Minister of State. 
  • Members: Their ranks are equivalent to that of a Secretary to the Government of India.
  • The terms of office for these positions are three years from the date of assuming charge.

Historical Evolution:

• The NCST’s establishment is rooted in the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.
• Prior to this amendment, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was a combined entity.
• The separation into two distinct Commissions-NCSC and NCST-occurred on 19 February 2004.

Role and Mandate:

1. Participation in Planning Process:
   
   • The NCST actively participates in the planning process related to the socio-economic development of STs.
   • It collaborates with both the Union and State governments to ensure that policies and programs are tailored to the needs of tribal communities.
2. Evaluation and Monitoring:
   
   • The Commission evaluates the effectiveness of safeguards provided to STs by the Constitution, existing laws, and government directives.
   • It monitors the progress of ST development at both the national and state levels.

Specific Functions:

• Investigating and advising on matters related to ST welfare.
• Inquiring into specific complaints regarding ST rights and safeguards.
• Recommending corrective measures to address violations.
• Presenting annual reports to the President of India.

Approach and Methodology

     1. Holistic Approach  :

• The NCST adopts a holistic approach to tribal development.
• It considers not only economic aspects but also social, cultural, and environmental factors affecting STs.

       2. Community Engagement:

• The Commission engages with tribal communities directly.
• Field visits, consultations, and interactions with ST representatives inform its recommendations.

         3. Research and Data Analysis:

• The NCST conducts research on tribal issues.
• It analyses data related to ST population, education, health, land rights, and livelihoods.

         4. Advocacy and Policy Influence  :

• The Commission advocates for policy changes and legal reforms.
•  It influences government decisions to enhance ST welfare.

Headquarters

         1.  Constitutional Authority:

• The NCST derives its authority from the Constitution.
• It has the power to summon witnesses, examine documents, and issue recommendations.

         2. Monitoring Implementation: 

•  The Commission monitors the implementation of constitutional safeguards for STs.
•  It ensures that funds allocated for tribal development are utilized effectively.

         3. Advisory Role:

•  The NCST advises the Central and state governments on ST-related matters.
•  Its recommendations guide policy formulation and implementation.

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