A Record Increase in Tribal Welfare Funding
The Union Budget 2025-26 has significantly increased financial support for tribal communities, reinforcing the government’s focus on holistic and sustainable development. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has been allocated ₹14,925.81 crore, a 45.79% jump from the previous year’s ₹10,237.33 crore.
This marks a 231.83% increase since 2014-15, when the budget stood at just ₹4,497.96 crore. The sharp rise reflects a commitment to empowering Scheduled Tribes (STs), who make up 8.6% of India’s population (over 10.45 crore people).
Key Schemes & Budget Allocations
1️⃣ Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA)
- An expansion of the earlier Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY).
- ₹80,000 crore allocated over five years to develop 63,843 tribal villages.
- Focus on basic infrastructure, healthcare, education, and livelihoods.
2️⃣ Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS)
- Budget nearly doubled from ₹4,748 crore to ₹7,088.60 crore.
- Aims to provide quality education to tribal children.
- Expansion of residential schools in remote tribal areas.
3️⃣ Pradhan Mantri Jan Jatiya Vikas Mission
- Budget raised from ₹152.32 crore to ₹380.40 crore.
- Focuses on year-round income generation for tribal communities.
- Promotes skill development, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment.
Government’s Vision for Tribal Empowerment
Union Minister Jual Oram and Minister of State Durga Das Uikey have reiterated that this budget reflects the government’s dedication to tribal welfare.
Key priorities include:
✅ Improving education for tribal youth.
✅ Bridging infrastructure gaps in remote areas.
✅ Enhancing livelihood opportunities through skill training and financial support.
✅ Promoting self-reliance among Scheduled Tribes.
Impact on India’s Tribal Communities
The increased funding is expected to:
✔ Reduce socio-economic disparities in tribal areas.
✔ Improve access to healthcare, schools, and roads in remote villages.
✔ Generate sustainable employment opportunities for tribal youth.
✔ Boost economic development by integrating tribal populations into mainstream growth initiatives.
Final Thoughts
The 45.79% budget increase for tribal welfare underscores the government’s intent to uplift and integrate tribal communities into India’s growth story. With a strong focus on education, infrastructure, and economic development, this initiative aims to bridge inequalities and provide equal opportunities for all.