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PolitySource: Economic Times

Individual Entitlement Survey to Assess Government Scheme Reach Among Tribes

Saturday, 22 November 2025
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Key Points

The Individual Entitlement Survey, conducted by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, aims to assess the reach of 39 government schemes among tribal communities, targeting 10 lakh households across 1,000 blocks. This initiative is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 2, focusing on governance and social justice. Last Updated: 2025-11-22

Key Facts About Individual Entitlement Survey

  • The Individual Entitlement Survey is a government initiative to assess the reach of tribal schemes.
  • Conducted by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
  • Targets 10 lakh households in 1,000 blocks across India.
  • Focuses on Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
  • Utilizes a mobile app for efficient data collection.
  • Issues a Universal Entitlement Card to beneficiaries.
  • Covers 39 government schemes aimed at tribal welfare.
  • Involves cooperation from state governments and NGOs.

India's Tribal Welfare and Economic Integration

The survey's macro-level significance lies in its potential to enhance the socio-economic status of tribal communities, aligning with India's strategic goal of inclusive growth. By accurately assessing the reach of government schemes, the initiative supports the integration of tribal populations into the broader economic framework. With approximately 48 lakh PVTGs targeted, this survey could significantly impact India's human development indices and foster equitable growth.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

  • PM-JANMAN: Aims to improve maternal and child health among tribal communities.
  • PM PVTG Mission: Focuses on the development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
  • Janjatiya Gaurav Divas: Celebrates tribal cultural heritage and contributions.

UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations - Focus on welfare schemes for vulnerable sections.
  • Prelims: Questions may focus on the number of schemes, households targeted, and the role of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
  • Mains: Analytical themes could include the effectiveness of welfare schemes, challenges in tribal welfare, and the role of technology in governance.
  • Essay Paper: Topics on social justice, inclusive growth, and tribal welfare.

FAQ Section

  • What is the Individual Entitlement Survey? The Individual Entitlement Survey is a government initiative to evaluate the reach of 39 government schemes among tribal communities, focusing on PVTGs.
  • Why is the Individual Entitlement Survey important? It is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of government schemes in improving the socio-economic status of tribal populations, targeting 10 lakh households.
  • What are the key features of the Individual Entitlement Survey? The survey targets 1,000 blocks, uses a mobile app for data collection, and issues a Universal Entitlement Card to beneficiaries.

Detailed Coverage

  • Government initiative to assess tribal scheme reach.
  • Conducted by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
  • Targets 10 lakh households in 1,000 blocks.
  • Focus on Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
  • Utilizes a mobile app for data collection.
  • Issues a Universal Entitlement Card for beneficiaries.
  • Covers 39 government schemes.
  • Involves cooperation from state governments and NGOs.
  • Targets approximately 48 lakh PVTGs.
  • Surveyors input data directly into the app.
  • Established classification criteria for PVTGs.
  • Odisha has the highest number of PVTGs.
  • Includes initiatives like PM-JANMAN and PM PVTG Mission.
  • Recognizes Janjatiya Gaurav Divas for tribal cultural heritage.
  • Survey aims to improve socio-economic status of tribes.
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Practice Questions

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Among the various states in India, one state is noted for having the highest number of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Which state holds this distinction, reflecting its diverse tribal population?