About National Commission for Scheduled Tribes:
- It is a constitutional body established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A.
- Historical Evolution:
- The NCST’s establishment is rooted in the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.
- Prior to this amendment, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was a combined entity.
- The separation into two distinct Commissions-NCSC and NCST-occurred in
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Composition of National Commission for Scheduled Tribes
- Chairperson: Holds the rank of a Union Cabinet Minister.
- Vice-Chairperson: Holds the rank of a Minister of State.
- Members: Their ranks are equivalent to that of a Secretary to the Government of India.
- The terms of office for these positions are three years from the date of assuming charge.
- Functions of National Commission for Scheduled Tribes
- To monitor safeguards provided for STs under the Constitution or under other laws;
- To inquire into specific complaints relating to Rights & Safeguards of STs;
- To advise in the Planning Process relating to Socio-economic development of STs;
- To submit report to the President annually and other times on welfare Measures required related to Socio-economic development of STs;
- To discharge such other functions in relation to STs as the President may by rule specify.
