Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections
Q4. What are the staffing problems and other concerns affecting the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) in India and their impact on addressing discrimination against scheduled tribes (ST)?
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Insights on India, The Hindu
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2 and mentioned as part of the Mission-2023 Secure timetable.
Also, The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes has asked the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay why it allowed a counsellor with “casteist sentiment” to continue working with the SC/ST Cell on campus.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the recent issues with staffing in NCST and their impact on its functioning.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
You may introduce it by
With the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003, under Article 338A, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) was established in the year 2004. As per the Article, it is the duty of the Commission to oversee the effective implementation of the safeguards available for the Scheduled Tribes (STs). The role of NCST is to protect and promote the socio-economic development of STs.
Body:
Write staffing and other issues with NCST such as NCST struggling to function due to a severe manpower crunch. As many as 70 posts out of 124 sanctioned posts in the commission are lying vacant; Recruitment rules are not finalised; Lack of applicants; non-binding recommendations; Less sensitive; Cash crunch; Fewer meetings etc.
Next, write about the Impact of the above issue such as Delayed hearings; High rate of pendency of cases; Poor performance; Failure to protect tribal identity; Fewer report submissions etc.
Then write measures needed: E.g., The vacancies should be immediately filled as there should be no reason now for any further delay since the recruitment rules have been suitably revised; Increasing budgetary allocation; Framing rules for an appointment: commission and tribal ministry should immediately finalise the rules for the recruitment of officials; The commission should be given additional powers, in the matter of criminal investigation.
Conclusion:
Conclude on a positive note.
