The Government of India has intensified efforts to uplift De-notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) through the Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs (SEED). Launched in 2022, SEED targets education, healthcare, livelihood, and housing for these historically marginalised groups. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment oversees the scheme, aiming to integrate DNTs into mainstream development.
Background of De-Notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities
DNT communities were labelled criminal tribes under British colonial laws like the Criminal Tribes Act, 1871. These laws were repealed in 1952, and the communities were de-notified. Many DNTs are nomadic or semi-nomadic, moving frequently without permanent land ownership. They remain socially and economically marginalised. About 10% of India’s population belongs to these groups, spread across Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, or outside these categories.
Objectives and Components of the SEED Scheme
SEED aims to empower DNTs through targeted support. It provides free coaching for competitive exams including Civil Services and professional courses. It offers health insurance under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The programme promotes livelihood generation via Self Help Groups (SHGs). Housing assistance is provided under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The scheme has a budget of Rs. 200 crore for five years starting 2021-22.
Implementation and Institutional Support
The Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC) implements SEED. It collaborates with national finance corporations and NGOs. An online portal facilitates registration and data management. As of 2025, 3,438 SHGs with over 46,000 members have been formed under SEED. The National Rural Livelihoods Mission supports but does not maintain separate data on DNT participation.
Historical and Policy Context
Several commissions have studied DNT issues, including the Renke Commission (2008) and Idate Commission (2015). These bodies brought into light the lack of constitutional safeguards for DNTs compared to Scheduled Castes and Tribes. The government launched various schemes before SEED, such as scholarships and hostel construction for DNT students. SEED represents a comprehensive approach to social justice and inclusion.
Challenges and Social Impact
DNT communities face stigma, poverty, and lack of access to education and healthcare. SEED’s focus on education and livelihoods aims to break this cycle. The formation of SHGs empowers women and promotes financial independence. Health insurance reduces medical vulnerability. Housing support addresses the absence of land ownership. The scheme marks step in integrating DNTs into India’s socio-economic fabric.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the impact of historical colonial laws like the Criminal Tribes Act on the socio-economic status of De-notified Tribes in India.
- Examine the role of government schemes such as the Scheme for Economic Empowerment of Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (SEED) in promoting social inclusion and economic development.
- With suitable examples, discuss how Self Help Groups contribute to livelihood generation and women empowerment in marginalised communities.
- Analyse the challenges faced by nomadic populations globally and discuss the policy measures required to ensure their rights and welfare.
