The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has seen a significant budget increase over the past decade, with funding directed towards initiatives aimed at improving living conditions, promoting education, and driving socio-economic empowerment for tribal populations across India, the ministry said in a press release on Tuesday.
According to the ministry, its budget has grown from Rs 4,497.96 crore in 2014-15 to Rs 13,000 crore in 2024-25, underscoring the government’s strong commitment to the upliftment of tribal communities.
One of the major initiatives launched in 2024 was the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 2, 2024.
With a budget of Rs. 79,156 crore, the program aims to address critical gaps in infrastructure, health, education, and livelihood development in over 63,843 tribal villages. This program reflects the government’s resolve to ensure that tribal communities have access to essential services and development opportunities.
Another important scheme, the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), launched in November 2023, focuses on the development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
This initiative, with an approved budget of Rs. 24,000 crore, is working to uplift 75 PVTGs in 18 states and one union territory by providing access to safe housing, clean water, education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods. As of January 2025, projects worth Rs. 7,356 crore have been sanctioned under this mission.
The Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) scheme continues to expand its impact by providing quality education to tribal students. In 2024, the Prime Minister inaugurated 40 new schools and laid the foundation for 25 more, bringing the total number of approved EMRS to 728.
These schools offer modern facilities and have seen an increase in the number of students enrolled, reflecting the growing demand for education in tribal areas. With 38,800 teaching and support staff positions set to be filled over the next three years, the government aims to provide education to 3.5 lakh tribal students.
In addition, the Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY) has approved 17,616 village development plans aimed at bridging infrastructure gaps in villages with a significant tribal population.
This initiative, in conjunction with various central and state government schemes, is designed to improve living standards and promote inclusive development for tribal communities.
Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs is working to ensure that India’s tribal populations receive the resources, infrastructure, and support needed to thrive.
With continued investments in education, healthcare, and economic development, the Ministry remains committed to fostering an inclusive and empowered future for India’s diverse tribal communities.