MoTA Seeks Separate Census Enumeration of PVTGs

The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India has been requested by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs( MoTA)  to be able to separately list Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in the next Census. It is intended to gather specific information about households, persons, and their socio-economic and cultural characteristics in order to increase the success of such schemes as PM JANMAN .

Definition and Criteria      

• The PVTGs are sub-category of Scheduled Tribes (STs) .
• Characterized by falling populations, isolation, pre-agrarian existence, economic backwardness and low literacy.
• The concept was introduced by the Dhebar Commission (1960-61) ; there were 52 groups identified in the first instance and this increased to 75 in 2006.

Geographical Distribution

• Dispersed over 18 states and Andaman and Nicobar Islands .
• The largest populations: Madhya Pradesh (13.22 lakh), Maharashtra (6.7 lakh), Andhra Pradesh (5.18 lakh).

Enumeration Challenges

• No distinct listing has ever been made of PVTGs; they have almost always been subsumed in larger ST category.
• Article 342 -only 40 of 75 PVTGs listed separately.
• Certain populations such as Baigas were counted in 2011 separately, others were added subsequently by law.

Significance

• Accurate information will assist in find gaps in infrastructures and enhancing the application of PM JANMAN in the field of health, education, livelihoods, and basic facilities.
• I would advocate a review of PVTG classification in order to reflect realities.

Population and Pre-disposition.

• 2023 survey: PVTG population ~47.5 lakh.
• Minimal group: Jarawas, Onges, Sentinelese (15 people).
• Largest group: Baigas (~4 lakh).

Policy Implications

• Facilitates superior policy planning, resource placement, and interventions.
• Helps diminish the disparities in tribal communities through selective assistance to the neediest.