National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) Oversight and Reform

20.09.2025

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) Oversight and Reform

Context

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), established through a constitutional amendment in 2003, is mandated to protect and promote the rights and welfare of Scheduled Tribe communities in India. However, in 2025, concerns were raised about the effectiveness of the Commission. To address these issues, the government formed three internal panels to monitor and improve NCST’s functioning and ensure fulfillment of its statutory duties.

Key Details

• The NCST safeguards tribal rights related to land, minerals, water, forest produce, livelihood strategies, and protection from displacement. It also monitors implementation of laws and policies benefiting tribal populations.
• Despite the mandate, the NCST has faced chronic challenges including severe staffing shortages, funding constraints, and limited operational capacity, impacting its ability to execute its duties effectively over the past two decades.
• In 2025, three sub-committees—named after their chairs (Jatot Hussain Panel, Asha Lakra Panel, and Nirupam Chakmakma Panel)—were constituted to oversee core functional areas:
  • Jatot Hussain Panel: Focuses on livelihood and mineral rights of tribals
  • Asha Lakra Panel: Addresses land alienation, displacement, and resettlement issues
  • Nirupam Chakmakma Panel: Monitors Panchayati Raj access and forest protection benefits for tribal communities.

Importance of these Panels

• These panels aim to increase transparency, accountability, and responsiveness within NCST.
• Their work is expected to bridge gaps in enforcement and policy implementation, amplifying the voices and safeguarding the rights of tribal populations.
• The restructure addresses systemic deficiencies to make the Commission more effective in protecting marginalized communities.

Challenges

• Funding and resource shortfalls remain obstacles that need urgent resolution for NCST’s successful functioning.
• Administrative reform is at an early stage, and sustained political will along with community engagement will be critical to deliver tangible improvements.
• Monitoring mechanisms and periodic reporting standards are to be strengthened further.

Conclusion

The 2025 reform initiative for the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes marks an important step toward revitalizing this key constitutional body. It holds promise to enhance protection and welfare measures for Scheduled Tribes by institutionalizing accountability and targeted oversight. This aligns with India’s commitment to social justice and inclusive development.