CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
There is a growing demand for the establishment of a permanent national commission dedicated to addressing the unique needs and challenges of Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNT/NT/SNTs). These communities, historically marginalized and underrepresented, continue to face systemic exclusion from mainstream development processes.
About Denotified Tribes
Denotified Tribes, often referred to as Vimukta Jatis, were once labeled as "criminal tribes" under the colonial Criminal Tribes Act of 1871. Under this draconian law, entire communities were branded as criminals by birth. They were forced to register with local authorities, constantly surveilled, and subjected to severe restrictions. After India gained independence, the Act was repealed in 1952, and these communities were "denotified", removing their criminal tag. However, the social stigma and institutional exclusion persist to this day.
Nomadic And Semi-Nomadic Tribes
Nomadic Tribes are those who do not have permanent settlements and move from one region to another in search of livelihood. Semi-Nomadic Tribes, while not fully itinerant, also lack fixed habitation and often depend on seasonal movements. Both groups traditionally rely on natural resources, forest produce, animal husbandry, and various forms of craft or performance art for survival.
These communities have historically lacked access to private land ownership, formal education, and regular employment opportunities. Deprived of basic amenities like housing, healthcare, and sanitation, their socio-economic condition remains dire.
Current Status In India
It is estimated that around 10% of India's population belongs to Denotified and Nomadic tribes.
There are approximately 150 Denotified Tribes and nearly 500 Nomadic communities spread across the country.
Many of them are not included in the list of Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or Other Backward Classes (OBC), thus missing out on constitutional benefits and welfare schemes.
Past Initiatives And Recommendations
To address the challenges faced by DNT/NT/SNTs, multiple commissions and boards have been set up:
Bhiku Ramji Idate Commission (2014)
Formed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, this commission aimed to:
Compile a state-wise list of DNT/NT/SNT communities.
Recommend welfare and inclusion strategies for these groups.
In 2017, the commission submitted draft lists to the central government.
Development and Welfare Board for DNTs (DWBDNC) – 2019
Based on the Idate Commission’s findings, the Development and Welfare Board for Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNCs) was established in 2019.
The Board was entrusted with formulating and implementing welfare programs specifically targeting these communities.
Earlier: Renke Commission (2008)
Another significant attempt to study the condition of these communities and recommend inclusion and development measures.
Scheme For Economic Empowerment Of DNTs (SEED)
Launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the SEED scheme aims to economically uplift DNT/NT/SNT communities through an integrated approach.
Key Features of the Scheme:
Eligibility: Families with an annual income of Rupees 2.5 lakh or less and not already benefiting from similar state/central schemes.
Objectives:
Free coaching for competitive examinations.
Access to health insurance.
Financial aid for construction of homes.
Livelihood-based support at the community level.
Funding: Rupees 200 crore has been allocated for the scheme from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26.
Need For Permanent Commission
While several temporary commissions and schemes have attempted to address the needs of DNT/NT/SNTs, the absence of a dedicated and permanent constitutional body continues to hinder consistent support and policy intervention. A Permanent National Commission would:
Ensure continuous monitoring and inclusion in welfare schemes.
Facilitate recognition and documentation of undocumented communities.
Promote social justice and equal opportunity for historically oppressed groups.
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