Classification of Denotified and Nomadic Tribes in India

The Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) and Tribal Research Institutes (TRI) have recently completed study. This research has categorised 268 denotified, semi-nomadic, and nomadic tribes in India. It marks the first comprehensive classification of these communities. The study’s findings have prompted recommendations to include 179 tribes in the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes lists. Notably, 85 of these tribes are being classified for the first time.

Historical Context

The need for this study stems from the historical context of the Criminal Tribes Act of 1924. After its repeal in 1949, various commissions have attempted to classify these tribes. Notable efforts include the First Backward Classes Commission, Lokur Committee, Mandal Commission, Renke Commission, and Idate Commission. Despite these efforts, many communities remained unclassified.

Recent Developments

The last major report was submitted by the Idate Commission in December 2017. This report identified over 1,200 tribes, denoting 267 communities that were unclassified. In 2019, the Prime Minister’s Office established a Special Committee to expedite the classification process. AnSI and TRI began their work in February 2020, culminating in a report released in August 2023.

Importance of Classification

Classification of these tribes is crucial for their socio-economic development. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment emphasised the need for swift action. Delays in classification hinder access to welfare benefits designed for SC/ST communities. Misclassification has roots in early colonial census practices, which often blurred the lines between tribes and castes.

Community Perspectives

Experts and community activists have voiced concerns regarding the classification process. Some argue that incorrect classifications have persisted since colonial times, complicating the identification of communities. Activists advocate for a thorough classification to ensure that the benefits of reservation policies reach the intended groups.

Political Implications

The classification process has political implications. Activists in states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat are questioning the inclusion of these tribes under SC, ST, and OBC categories. Two distinct viewpoints have emerged regarding the classification of these communities. One supports completing the current classification for access to benefits, while the other calls for a separate constitutional schedule for denotified tribes.

Future Directions

The report from AnSI and TRI is currently under review by the Special Committee. This committee will scrutinise the recommendations before presenting a final report to the government. The outcome will determine the future classification and benefits for these tribes.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of the Criminal Tribes Act of 1924 on the socio-economic conditions of denotified tribes in India.
2. Critically discuss the role of various commissions in the classification of nomadic and semi-nomadic tribes in India.
3. Analyse the significance of accurate classification of communities under Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes in India.
4. Estimate the potential socio-political changes that may arise from the recent classification of denotified tribes in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of the Criminal Tribes Act of 1924 on the socio-economic conditions of denotified tribes in India.

1. The Criminal Tribes Act of 1924 labeled certain tribes as “criminal,” leading to social stigma and marginalization.
2. Post-repeal in 1949, denotified tribes faced challenges in reclaiming their identities and accessing socio-economic benefits.
3. Many communities experienced loss of traditional livelihoods and skills, resulting in economic instability.
4. Stigmatization persisted, affecting education, employment opportunities, and social integration.
5. The act’s legacy continues to influence policies and perceptions of these communities .

2. Critically discuss the role of various commissions in the classification of nomadic and semi-nomadic tribes in India.

1. Commissions like the First Backward Classes Commission and the Idate Commission aimed to address the historical neglect of these communities.
2. However, many commissions have struggled to identify and classify all tribes accurately, leading to incomplete data.
3. Each commission’s findings often influenced government policies and social welfare programs for these tribes.
4. Political considerations sometimes affected the classification process, complicating accurate representation.
5. Recent efforts by AnSI and TRI represent step towards comprehensive classification, building on previous commission work.

3. Analyse the significance of accurate classification of communities under Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes in India.

1. Accurate classification ensures that communities receive rightful access to affirmative action and welfare schemes.
2. Misclassification can lead to inadequate support and perpetuate socio-economic disparities.
3. It helps in the preservation of cultural identities and recognition of the unique challenges faced by different communities.
4. Accurate data aids policymakers in designing targeted interventions for community upliftment.
5. Proper classification encourages social justice and inclusion, contributing to national integration.

4. Estimate the potential socio-political changes that may arise from the recent classification of denotified tribes in India.

1. Increased political representation and advocacy for the rights of denotified tribes in legislative assemblies.
2. Potential for new welfare policies tailored to the specific needs of classified communities, enhancing socio-economic conditions.
3. Activism may rise, with communities pushing for reservations and recognition under SC/ST/OBC categories.
4. Greater awareness and dialogue around the historical injustices faced by these tribes may emerge.
5. Possible restructuring of existing social dynamics as communities gain recognition and access to resources.