COUNCIL FOR PROMOTION OF SOCIAL
JUSTICE & EMPOWERMENT OF INDIA

Development Action Plan for Scheduled Tribes (ST)

The Development Action Plan for Scheduled Tribes (DAPST) is a focused strategy aimed at addressing the socio-economic disadvantages faced by tribal communities across India. Rooted in principles of equity, sustainability, and inclusion, this plan aims to bring tribal populations into the national development mainstream while preserving their rich heritage and autonomy.

Formulated in accordance with the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) strategy and Article 275(1) of the Indian Constitution, the action plan ensures targeted budgetary allocation, implementation monitoring, and policy integration across key sectors.

Objectives

  • To ensure equitable access to education, health, livelihood, and housing.

  • To promote self-governance and community empowerment in tribal areas.

  • To safeguard and promote tribal culture, language, and traditions.

  • To enable economic self-reliance through sustainable agriculture, forestry, and entrepreneurship.

  • To ensure the effective delivery of government welfare schemes in tribal regions.

Core Development Focus Areas

1. Education

  • Residential schools, Eklavya Model Schools, and scholarships

  • Digital learning centers in remote tribal belts

  • Bridge courses and adult literacy programs

  • Reservation and financial aid for higher education

2. Health & Nutrition

  • Mobile health units and tribal health clinics

  • Sanitation drives and clean drinking water initiatives

  • Nutrition kits for mothers and children (under ICDS/Poshan Abhiyaan)

  • Promotion of indigenous medicine systems (AYUSH)

3. Livelihood & Employment

  • Skill training under PMKVY and other tribal artisan programs

  • Support for traditional crafts, forest produce, and SHGs

  • Agricultural extension services, irrigation, and soil health initiatives

  • Tribal start-up ecosystem with financial and mentoring support

4. Infrastructure Development

  • Road, power, telecom connectivity in tribal hamlets

  • Housing under PMAY-G (with tribal housing adaptation)

  • Drinking water supply through Jal Jeevan Mission

  • Construction of hostels, schools, and health centers

5. Social Justice & Legal Empowerment

  • Awareness of FRA (Forest Rights Act), PESA, and land rights

  • Legal aid and community dispute resolution systems

  • Training Gram Sabha and Tribal Welfare Committees

  • Protection from exploitation and trafficking

Implementation Strategy

  • Dedicated Budget Allocation under the Scheduled Tribe Component (STC) of each ministry

  • District-level Tribal Development Plans aligned with State priorities

  • Collaboration with NGOs, tribal leaders, and local governance (Panchayati Raj)

  • Real-time monitoring and evaluation dashboard

  • Capacity building and sensitization of implementing officials

Outcome Indicators

  • Increase in tribal literacy and school attendance

  • Reduction in IMR, MMR, and malnutrition rates

  • Improved income and employment in tribal households

  • Strengthening of cultural identity and local governance

  • Better representation of tribal youth and women in mainstream sectors