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PolitySource: Indian Express

Union Budget 2025: Tribal Budget Soars 45% to ₹14,900 Crore; Big Push for Eklavya Schools

Friday, 7 February 2025
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Key Points

The Union Budget 2025-26 has announced a significant 45% increase in the allocation for tribal welfare, reaching ₹14,900 Crore. This development is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Paper 2 and 3, as it highlights government strategies for social justice and economic development. Last Updated: 2025-02-07

Key Facts About Union Budget 2025: Tribal Budget

  • The Budget 2025-26 allocates ₹14,925.81 crore to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, marking a 45.79% increase from the previous year.
  • The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment receives ₹13,611 crore, reflecting a 35.75% increase.
  • ₹7,088.60 crore is allocated for Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) to operationalize 728 schools.
  • DA-JGUA funding is increased fourfold to ₹2,000 crore to enhance infrastructure and livelihoods.
  • PM-JANMAN allocation is doubled to ₹300 crore for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
  • A target of 4.90 lakh houses is set for PVTGs under the PM-AWAS scheme.

India's Commitment to Tribal Development

The increased budget allocation underscores India's commitment to addressing socio-economic disparities and infrastructure gaps in tribal regions. This aligns with the country's broader goals of inclusive growth and social equity. The focus on education and healthcare improvements is pivotal for enhancing the quality of life in tribal communities, contributing to India's strategic objectives of sustainable development and poverty alleviation.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

  • TRIFED: Promotes tribal products and entrepreneurship.
  • Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana: Enhances livelihood opportunities through value addition of forest produce.
  • Digital Transformation of Tribal Schools: Aims to improve educational access and quality in tribal areas.

UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 2: Social Justice - Government policies for vulnerable sections.
  • GS Paper 3: Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
  • Prelims Angle: Questions on budget allocations, scheme names, and targets.
  • Mains Angle: Essays on tribal welfare, socio-economic development, and government interventions.

FAQ Section

  • What is the Union Budget 2025-26's focus on tribal welfare?
    The Union Budget 2025-26 emphasizes a 45% increase in tribal welfare funding, with a total allocation of ₹14,900 Crore, focusing on education, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
  • Why is the increased budget for tribal welfare important?
    This increase is crucial for addressing socio-economic disparities and improving living conditions in tribal areas, aligning with India's goals for inclusive growth.
  • What are the key features of the Eklavya Model Residential Schools allocation?
    The budget allocates ₹7,088.60 crore to operationalize 728 Eklavya Schools, enhancing educational access for tribal students.

Detailed Coverage

  • Budget 2025-26 allocates ₹14,925.81 crore to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, a 45.79% increase from last year.
  • Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment receives ₹13,611 crore, a 35.75% increase.
  • ₹7,088.60 crore allocated for Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) to operationalize 728 schools.
  • DA-JGUA funding increased fourfold to ₹2,000 crore for improving infrastructure and livelihoods.
  • PM-JANMAN allocation doubled to ₹300 crore for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
  • Target of 4.90 lakh houses for PVTGs under PM-AWAS scheme.
  • Government initiatives include TRIFED, digital transformation of tribal schools, and Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana.
  • Challenges faced by tribes include socio-economic disparities and infrastructure gaps.
  • Focus on enhancing education and healthcare in tribal regions.
  • Budget reflects the government's commitment to tribal welfare and development.
  • Significant increase in funds for residential schools and welfare schemes.
  • Highlight on the importance of bridging infrastructure gaps in tribal areas.
  • Government aims for comprehensive coverage of health, education, and livelihood schemes.
  • Union Budget 2025-26 emphasizes socio-economic upliftment of tribal communities.
  • Focus on quality education and residential facilities for tribal students.
  • Enhanced budget signifies a strategic approach to tribal welfare.
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Practice Questions

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In the Union Budget 2025-26, which ministry received a significant budgetary allocation of Rs 14,925.81 crore, marking a 45.79% increase from the previous year, to focus on the welfare and development of Scheduled Tribes?