Government Increases Tribal Welfare Budget to ₹1.50 Lakh Crore

On May 24, the Government of India announced a significant increase in the overall budget for tribal welfare, raising it nearly fivefold from ₹28,000 crore to ₹1.50 lakh crore. The increase has been made under the consolidated budget framework through which various ministries allocate funds for the development of Scheduled Tribes across the country.

This historic allocation is aimed at strengthening tribal empowerment and accelerating socio-economic development in tribal communities. Key details of the enhanced budget and major initiatives are outlined below:

Multi-Ministerial Approach

Under the Tribal Development Action Plan, more than 40 central ministries allocate a portion of their budgets toward tribal development programs. The combined allocation under this framework has now reached ₹1.50 lakh crore.

Ministry of Tribal Affairs Budget

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has also received a substantial increase in its own core budget, which has been raised to ₹14,926 crore.

Flagship Welfare Schemes

Special emphasis is being placed on flagship initiatives such as the PM-JANMAN Scheme and the Dharti Aaba Tribal Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. These programs focus on improving education, infrastructure, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities for tribal communities.

Expansion of Educational Facilities

A significant portion of the budget, approximately ₹7,150 crore, has been allocated for the operation and expansion of more than 700 Eklavya Model Residential Schools across the country. These institutions aim to provide quality education and holistic development opportunities to tribal students.