The Many First-time Evers of India’s Tribal Communities..

 The Many First-time Evers of India’s Tribal Communities

For the first time in India’s history, the nation’s tribal communities are experiencing a wave of transformative initiatives that recognize and uplift them across all spheres. After years of systemic neglect, a newfound focus on tribal welfare is not only closing gaps but also celebrating their heritage, empowering their youth, improving healthcare access, and providing economic opportunities. With these monumental steps, India is reshaping its relationship with its tribal citizens—bringing prosperity, dignity, and equality to communities long overlooked. Here’s a look at these historic “firsts” that are building a brighter, more inclusive future.

Massive Investment Like Never Before: A 5.7X Surge in Tribal Welfare Funds

For the first time, India has expanded its financial commitment to tribal welfare to record levels. Funds for Development Action Plan for STs have seen a fivefold increase, from less than ₹24,600 crore in 2013-14 to an incredible ₹1.23 lakh crore in 2024-25. This leap in funding is fueling initiatives across education, healthcare, housing, and more, marking a powerful commitment to empowering tribal communities.

Tribal Education Revolutionized: Schools, Scholarships, and More Opportunities!

Tribal students are finally receiving the educational opportunities they deserve, with enrollment soaring from 34,000 in 2013-14 to over 1.3 lakh in 2023-24. The growth of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) has been a cornerstone of this shift, with the number of schools nearly quadrupling, from 123 to 476 in just a decade. These schools are not only educating but transforming prospects for tribal youth across the country.

A Nationwide Mission to End Sickle Cell Anaemia for the First Time

With the first-ever Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, India is tackling a health issue that disproportionately affects tribal communities. Already, over 4.6 crore people have been screened, with a goal to reach 7 crore within three years. This mission to eradicate sickle cell disease isn’t just about health; it’s about creating a healthier, more resilient future for India’s tribal populations.

Scholarships Reimagined: Unmatched Financial Support for Tribal Students!

For the first time, tribal students are receiving extensive scholarship support. Scholarships now benefit over 30 lakh students annually, with a total disbursement of ₹17,000 crore in last 10 years. These scholarships are more than financial aid; they’re a pathway to empowerment for tribal youth.

Honoring Tribal Freedom Fighters and Heritage Like Never Before

The contributions of tribal freedom fighters are now being recognized on a national scale, with 10 museums established in their honor. The birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda has also been designated as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, paying tribute to his legacy and the resilience of India’s tribal communities. For the first time, the stories of tribal heroes are celebrated, fostering pride and preserving cultural heritage.

Tribal Entrepreneurship on the Rise: Self-Reliance Through Van Dhan Kendras

In a landmark push for tribal entrepreneurship, 3900 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras have been set up, providing resources to nearly 12 lakh tribal entrepreneurs. These centers are enabling tribals to transform traditional skills into profitable ventures, promoting economic self-reliance and innovation.

India’s First Tribal President: A Historic Milestone in Representation

Smt. Droupadi Murmu’s election as India’s first tribal President is a monumental step for tribal representation, sending a powerful message of inclusion and breaking barriers at the highest level of government. Her presidency stands as a symbol of hope and opportunity for millions across India’s tribal communities.

Delivering Basic Services to Remote Tribal Communities for the First Time

Under PM-JANMAN, essential services like housing, clean water, sanitation, and healthcare are reaching the most vulnerable tribal groups for the first time. With a budget of over ₹24,000 crore dedicated to 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) and more than 45 lakh families, this initiative is a lifeline for remote tribal communities.

Opening Doors for J&K’s Tribals: New Access to Jobs and Education

With the abrogation of Article 370, Scheduled Tribe communities in Jammu & Kashmir now have expanded access to education and employment opportunities, opening doors to a brighter future and fostering inclusion for tribal groups in the region.

A New Source of Income: Bamboo, A Green Gold for Tribal Prosperity

In a first, bamboo has been declassified as a tree, allowing tribal communities to harvest it freely. This change brings new income streams to tribal families and creates sustainable opportunities, transforming bamboo into “green gold” for tribal prosperity.

100% Tribal Coverage Made a Mission

Through the Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyaan, for the first time, the socio-economic conditions of tribal communities have been improving and this covers 63,000 villages and benefitting 5 crore tribal people aiming at 100% saturation of benefits. This initiative, with an unprecedented budget of ₹80,000 crore, is aimed at providing holistic development and empowerment across India's tribal areas.

MSP Becomes a Tool for Tribal Empowerment

For the first time, the Minimum Support Price (MSP) framework has become an empowering tool for tribal communities. This is witnessed in the number of Minor Forest Produce items receiving MSP support which has expanded from 12 items to 87, providing tribal communities with stable income opportunities and incentivizing sustainable resource use.

Bringing long-awaited recognition, resources, and opportunities for the first time are changing the lives of our tribal brothers and sisters forever. After decades of being overlooked, they now stand at the forefront of India’s development, empowered, resilient, and ready to shape their own future.