Tribal Identity and Marginalization — Current Affairs 2026
Current Affairs Connections
Government Launches 'PM-JANMAN' Scheme for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
November 2023 (announced), ongoing implementation 2024-2026The Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) scheme, with a budget of Rs 24,000 crore, targets the holistic development of 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) across 18 states and UTs. This initiative focuses on providing basic facilities like safe housing, clean drinking water, sanitation, improved access to education, health, and nutrition, road and telecom connectivity, and sustainable livelihood opportunities. From a UPSC perspective, this scheme is a direct response to the 'basic services gap' and 'educational backwardness' faced by the most marginalized tribal communities. Its success will be critical in assessing the government's commitment to 'tribal development schemes UPSC' and reducing the vulnerability of PVTGs to exploitation and alienation, thereby indirectly addressing internal security concerns by fostering inclusion. [PMO Press Release, Nov 2023]
UPSC Angle: Evaluate the effectiveness of PM-JANMAN in addressing the multi-dimensional poverty and marginalization of PVTGs. Discuss its potential impact on reducing vulnerability to LWE recruitment. Analyze challenges in implementation, especially in remote areas.
Debate Intensifies on Uniform Civil Code's Impact on Tribal Customary Laws
Ongoing in 2024-2025The renewed push for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India has sparked significant debate, particularly concerning its potential implications for tribal customary laws and practices. Many tribal communities, especially those protected under the Fifth and Sixth Schedules, fear that a UCC could erode their distinct cultural identity, traditional governance systems, and unique personal laws related to marriage, inheritance, and land. This issue directly touches upon 'tribal identity preservation policies' and the constitutional guarantee of cultural autonomy. From a UPSC standpoint, this represents a critical juncture where the principle of national uniformity clashes with the constitutional recognition of diverse identities and customary practices, raising questions about federalism, cultural rights, and the delicate balance required in nation-building. [Law Commission Consultations, 2024]
UPSC Angle: Analyze the potential socio-cultural and political impacts of a Uniform Civil Code on tribal communities in India. Discuss the constitutional provisions that protect tribal customary laws and assess the arguments for and against their inclusion or exclusion from a UCC. Relate this to 'identity politics in India' [VY:SEC-01-03].