Question : APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSIONS FOR STs



(a) whether Government has set up commissions to study roadmap for the improvement of disadvantaged section of society for scheduled tribes;

(b) if so, the main purpose of these commissions;

(c) the time by which these commissions will submit their reports;

(d) the steps being taken to implement its recommendations;

(e) whether it is a fact that before the report of the Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes Commission could be finalized, the Government has circulated a draft national policy on tribals; and

(f) if so, the present status of the draft national policy on tribals?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF TRIBAL AFFAIRS (SHRI P.R. KYNDIAH)

(a) to (d): Yes Sir, the Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes Commission (SA&ST Commission) was set up initially for a period of one year and was granted extended period of another year up to 16.7.2004. The purpose of the SA&ST Commission was to examine the socio-political and administrative set up, developmental strategies, constitutional provisions and matters connected with administration of the scheduled areas and/or the welfare of the scheduled tribes in the country and formulate an outline of a viable comprehensive tribal policy. The SA&ST Commission has submitted its report recently on 16.7.2004. Steps are being taken to examine the recommendations.

(e) & (f) The draft national policy for tribals attempted is to be a general guideline that will advise on the directions to be taken for tribal development and other related issues. The draft policy paper has been sent to experts and opinion makers inviting their comments/suggestions for improvement. It has also been placed on Ministry`s website for wider viewing seeking comments/suggestions.

It is proposed to make use of suggestions/comments as also the observations/recommendations of the SA&ST Commission into consideration for final drafting of the national policy for tribals to be considered by the Government.