Tag: CLASSIFICATION OF DENOTIFIED

The Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) and Tribal Research Institutes (TRI) have, for the first time, comprehensively classified 268 denotified, semi-nomadic, and nomadic tribes. Classification: A three-year study resulted in recommendations for 179 of these communities to be included in the Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) lists. 85 communities have been recommended for classification for the first time ever. 63 communities were found to be "not traceable," possibly due to assimilation, name changes, or migration. Definition and Categories Denotified Tribes (DNTs): Tribes that were previously notified as "criminal tribes" under the Criminal Tribes Act, 1871, later denotified after independence in 1952. Examples Mavilan (Kerala), Banjara (Rajasthan, Maharashtra), Koch (Assam) Historically labeled as "criminals" during British rule, now recognized as marginalized tribes. Nomadic Tribes: Communities that traditionally moved from place to place for livelihood, without a permanent settlement. Examples: Gaddi (Himachal Pradesh), Rebaris (Rajasthan, Gujarat) – primarily pastoral or involved in traditional crafts. Semi-Nomadic Tribes: Communities with a mix of settled and nomadic lifestyles, moving seasonally or for specific reasons like herding or trade. Examples: Gujar (Haryana, Rajasthan), Raikas (Rajasthan) – involved in agriculture and animal husbandry, with seasonal migration for grazing. Historical Context and Efforts for Recognition Several committees and commissions have studied the issues faced by these communities: Criminal Tribes Inquiry Committee (1947) in the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh). Ananthasayanam Ayyangar Committee (1949), whose recommendations led to the repeal of the Criminal Tribes Act. Kaka Kalelkar Commission (1953), also known as the first OBC Commission. Lokur Committee (1965) B P Mandal Commission (1980), which made recommendations regarding these tribes. Renke Commission (2008) Idate Commission (2017) The Idate Commission (2017) reported that 267 communities remained unclassified and emphasized the urgency of completing their classification. A Special Committee was formed by the Prime Minister’s Office in 2019 under the Vice-Chairperson of NITI Aayog, which entrusted classification work to AnSI and TRIs. The classification study began in February 2020 and concluded in August 2023. National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (NCRWC, 2002) Held that DNTs were wrongly stigmatized as crime-prone and subjected to unjust treatment. Chaired by Justice M. N. Venkatachaliah. Demographics South Asia has the world’s largest nomadic population. Census 2011: Estimates approximately 10 crore individuals belonging to nomadic and semi-nomadic tribes. Planning Commission (2008): A report identified that the literacy rate among these tribes is significantly lower than the national average, with limited access to formal education. Need for Categorization The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment (December 2022) flagged the government’s inaction on classification. Delay in classification prevents these communities from accessing welfare benefits designated for SC, ST, and OBC groups. Many communities were historically misclassified due to errors in colonial censuses, which continued post-Independence. Incorrect classification makes organization and upliftment of these communities challenging. Socio-Economic Challenges Marginalization and Discrimination: These communities were often stereotyped and discriminated against due to their mobility and non-settled lifestyles. Lack of Access to Education and Health: Due to their mobility, these tribes face challenges in accessing public services, education, and healthcare. Economic Dependence: Many rely on traditional occupations such as agriculture, animal husbandry, and handicrafts, often leading to economic vulnerability. Government Recognition and Initiatives Constitutional Provisions: Articles 15(4) and 46 ensure the protection and welfare of backward communities, including DNTs. National Commission for Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (NCDNT): Established in 2014 to address the socio-economic issues of these tribes. Challenges Faced by DNTs Lack of Identity and Documentation: Many DNTs lack proper documentation such as Scheduled Tribe (ST) or Scheduled Caste (SC) certificates, affecting their access to welfare schemes. Stigmatization and Social Exclusion: Despite denotification, social stigma persists due to historical criminalization. Issues with Land Ownership: A significant portion of these tribes lack land ownership and live in informal settlements, leading to issues with land rights and security. Government Schemes and Steps for Empowerment PMGDISHA (Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan): Initiatives to digitally empower DNTs, improve literacy, and access digital services. Welfare and Education Schemes: Several states have introduced schemes to promote education and provide vocational training specific to the needs of these communities. The classification of denotified, semi-nomadic, and nomadic tribes is a critical step toward their social and economic upliftment. A well-defined classification will help these communities access government schemes, reservation benefits, and social inclusion.

Tag: CLASSIFICATION OF DENOTIFIED

CLASSIFICATION OF DENOTIFIED, SEMI-NOMADIC, AND NOMADIC TRIBES IN INDIA

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