The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs has recently focused its efforts on enhancing the quality of life in India’s tribal villages. Their goal is to transform 36,428 villages that have at least a 50% tribal population and 500 Scheduled Tribes into ‘model tribal’ villages. This initiative is part of the newly rebranded Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojna (PMAAGY), previously known as the Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub¬Scheme (SCA to TSS). The project is set for implementation from the fiscal year 2021-22 till 2025-26.
Understanding the Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY)
PMAAGY is designed to boost the State Governments’ endeavors for the development and welfare of tribal people. It offers Special Central Assistance as an addition to the State Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP). Primarily, it targets the bridging of gaps and providing fundamental infrastructure in villages with a significant tribal population. This is achieved through converging funds available under various schemes in the Central Scheduled Tribe Component. The Scheme is a centrally sponsored scheme, fully funded by the government of India.
Objectives of the PMAAGY
The main aim of the project is to formulate a Village Development Plan that aligns with the community’s needs, potential, and aspirations. It seeks to increase the coverage of individual or family benefit schemes offered by the Central/State Governments. The ultimate goal is to enhance the infrastructure in critical sectors like health, education, connectivity, and livelihood.
Sectors of Focus Under the PMAAGY
The PMAAGY seeks to close the gaps in eight essential development sectors. These include road connectivity, both internal and between villages and blocks, and telecom connectivity, facilitating mobile and internet access.
The scheme also targets improvements in educational facilities through upgrading School Anganwadi Centres. The health sector is also a priority, with plans to enhance Health Sub-Centres.
Ensuring access to clean drinking water is part of the agenda, along with establishing proper drainage systems. Effective solid waste management systems are another focal point of the PMAAGY.
The Role of the Tribal Affairs Ministry in the PMAAGY
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs plays a pivotal role in the administration and implementation of the PMAAGY. By working closely with State Governments and other relevant authorities, it ensures the effective execution of the scheme. It also oversees the allocation and utilization of funds and monitors the scheme’s progress.
The Impact of the PMAAGY on Tribal Communities
The PMAAGY is expected to bring significant positive change to India’s tribal villages. The coordinated efforts towards development and welfare could improve living standards, access to essential services, and overall quality of life in these communities. The scheme promises to transform not just the physical landscape of these villages but also the socio-economic landscape by creating better opportunities for growth and prosperity.
The PMAAGY represents an important step by the government in recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by tribal communities. Through targeted development and infrastructure initiatives, the scheme aims to empower these societies and enhance their contribution to India’s growth and diversity.
