Centre to create special fund for scheduled tribes

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) will create a special fund for the development and upliftment of scheduled tribes in the country.

At present, the commission is conducting a national survey to assess funds needed for the developmental purpose. The fund is expected to be made available from the next financial year.

"At present, we are assessing the scope of development of the scheduled tribes through a national level survey. Soon after the survey, we will plan for a special fund for the development of the STs and will also represent government to increase the budgetary allocation for the upliftments of STs in our country," Kunwar Singh, chairman, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, told Business Standard.

Apart from the special fund, the commission's priority is to clear the backlog in the pending government jobs for STs. Inspite of the reservations, there are over 5,100 vacant posts in Gujarat alone to be filled up since the last few years.

However, the state government has assured the Commission to clear the backlog within the current financial year.

Over the issue of conversion to other religion, Singh said, "The conversion of STs is a great problem in our country, which reflects that desired level of development has not been attained. STs are easily lured by various religious leaders to adopt their religion against monitory favours. We need to stop such activities as its destroys the tribal culture. The commission will ensure the development of the STs, keeping the tribal culture intact."

Singh refused to divulge any information on the number of conversions in the last five years.