Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. (UPSC 2016)

The term Scheduled Tribes comes from the constitutional “schedule” of notified tribal communities. Under Article 342, the President specifies the tribes to be treated as STs for each State or Union Territory.

• Why “scheduled”? They are included in a formal schedule, first used in colonial legislation and later continued in the Constitution.
• Constitutional meaning: Article 366(25) links STs to communities notified under Article 342.

Major provisions for upliftment:

• Article 15(4) and 16(4): special provisions and reservation in education and public employment.
• Article 46: promotion of educational and economic interests; protection from exploitation.
• Articles 330, 332, 243D, 243T: reservation in Parliament, State Assemblies and local bodies.
• Article 244 with Fifth and Sixth Schedules: special administration of tribal areas.
• Article 275(1) and Article 338A: grants for development and NCST safeguards.

Thus, the Constitution recognises their distinct identity and provides political, social and administrative safeguards to ensure inclusion and dignity.