National Commission for Scheduled Tribes

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes

News: The recent data presented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) revealed that the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is currently functioning with less than 50% of its sanctioned strength.

About:
 NCST was set up in 2004 by amending Article 338 and by inserting a new Article 338A in the Constitution through the 89th Constitution Amendment Act, 2003. Hence, it is a constitutional body.
 By this amendment, the erstwhile National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and Scheduled Tribes was replaced by two separate Commissions namely - the NCSC, and the NCST
 Article 338A inter-alia gives powers to the NCST to oversee the implementation of various safeguards provided to Scheduled Tribes (STs) under the Constitution or under any other law for time being in force or under any other order to the Government and to evaluate the working of such safeguards.

Composition:
 It consists of a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson and 3 other Members who are appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal.
 At least one member should be a woman.
 The Chairperson, the Vice-Chairperson and the other Members hold office for a term of 3 years.
 The members are not eligible for appointments for more than two terms.

Functions:
 To investigate and monitor all matters relating to the safeguards provided for the STs under the Constitution or under any other law for the time being in force or under any order of the Government.
 To inquire into specific complaints with respect to the deprivation of rights and safeguards of the STs.
 To participate and advise in the planning process of the socio-economic development of the STs and to evaluate the progress of their development.
 The Commission shall provide reports on the operation of those safeguards to the President annually and as necessary.
 To make in such reports recommendations as to the measures that should be taken by the Union or any State for effective implementation of those safeguards.
 The President, subject to the provisions of any law made by Parliament, may, by rule, discharge any other functions relating to the protection, welfare, development, and advancement of the STs.