50% less strength than sanctioned posts in Scheduled Tribes Commission

Tags: National News

presented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs on 6 February in Lok Sabha revealed that the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is currently functioning with less than 50% of its sanctioned strength.

About National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

• It has been established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A in the Indian Constitution through the 89th Amendment Act.

• It is a constitutional body.

• It consists of a chairman, a vice-chairman and three whole-time members (including a woman member).

• Its term is for 3 years and the chairman is appointed by the President.

• It investigates and monitors matters relating to Safeguards provided for STs.

• Chairman - Harsha Chauhan

• Union Minister of Tribal Affairs - Arjun Munda

NCST's Powers and Functions

• The Commission has the power to inquire into any complaint relating to the deprivation of rights and safeguards of the Scheduled Tribes.

• It has all the powers of a civil court.

• To examine and monitor matters relating to safeguards available to STs under the Constitution, to evaluate the working of such safeguards.

• To participate in and advise on the planning process for the socio-economic development of the Scheduled Tribes.

• To evaluate the progress of their development under the Union and any State.