NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SCHEDULED TRIBES

NEWS: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs observed the 23rd Foundation Day of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

About

• NCST is a constitutional body established under Article 338-A of the Constitution
• Through the 89th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003
• Consists of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and 3 other members (including at least one-woman Member) appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal
  • Their conditions of service and tenure are determined by the President.
• The Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and other Members serve a 3-year term
  • The Chairpersonà holding the rank of Union Cabinet Minister,
  • The Vice-Chairpersonà the rank of a Minister of State,
  • Other Members àthe rank of Secretary to the Government of India.
• Members are not eligible for appointment for more than two terms.

Functions:

• Investigate and monitor constitutional/legal safeguards for STs
• Inquire into specific complaints regarding deprivation of rights
• Participate in socio-economic development planning;
• Evaluate development progress
• Submit reports to the President
  • President places reports before Parliament with memorandum on action taken
  • state-related reports forwarded to Governor for presentation before state legislature.
• Possesses civil court powers for investigationsàcan summon persons, require document production, receive affidavits, requisition public records
• Central and state governmentsà must consult the Commission on all major policy matters affecting STs.