India’s Upcoming Census to Independently Count PVTGs

Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) will be counted independently for the first time in India’s upcoming Census, marking a historic milestone. These groups, which are among the Scheduled Tribes’ most marginalized segments, have historically been underrepresented in government statistics. In order to support evidence-based policymaking, targeted welfare programs, and better resource allocation for their socioeconomic advancement, an exclusive enumeration seeks to provide precise demographic insights.

The necessity of a distinct census for PVTGs

Approximately 40 of the 75 PVTGs are categorized as STs and were included in the 2011 Census; but, traditionally, PVTGs have remained underrepresented in official data. 

• The remaining groups, which are frequently subsets of larger ST communities, were not specifically listed. For the purpose of creating need-based, targeted programs, like the PM-JANMAN initiative, to close socioeconomic gaps for PVTGs in more than 200 districts. 
• In the next census, the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGI) will independently count PVTGs if all is finalized.

India’s Census Commissioner and Registrar General (RGI)

Located under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, it was established in 1949. In accordance with the 1948 Census Act.

• In accordance with the Registration of Births & Deaths (RBD) Act (1969), which mandates that births and deaths be registered. A significant source of vital rates, including the birth, death, infant, and maternal mortality rates, is the Sample Registration System (SRS).
• In accordance with the guidelines established by the Citizenship Act of 1955 and the Citizenship Rules of 2003. Documenting the linguistic characteristics of the chosen mother tongues is the Mother Tongue Survey.

About PVTGs

In tribal societies, they are one of the most vulnerable and neglected groups. These groupings were initially acknowledged by the Dhebar Commission in the early 1960s. In 18 States and the Union Territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, there are 75 PVTGs that have been recognized.

• The PVTG population was projected to be 45.56 lakh by a recent center habitation-level study.
• Madhya Pradesh (12.28L), Maharashtra (6.2L), and Andhra Pradesh (4.9L) have the largest populations. Pre-agricultural technological proficiency, low literacy, economic backwardness, and a population that is either shrinking or stagnating are among the identification criteria.

Mains: 

Question: “Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) remain the most marginalized within Scheduled Tribes.” In this context, examine the need for their separate enumeration in the upcoming Census.

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MCQs:

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Question: With reference to the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGI), consider the following statements:

1. It was set up in 1949 and comes under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
2. The Registrar General conducts the Population Census under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948.
3. The National Population Register (NPR) is prepared under the Census Act, 1948.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. a) 1 and 2 only
2. b) 2 and 3 only
3. c) 1 and 3 only
4. d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: a) 1 and 2 only

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