National Commission for Scheduled Tribes.

Why in News?

• National Commission for Scheduled Tribes recently said that Forest (Conservation) Rules (FCR) 2022 will invariably violate the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

About National Commission for Scheduled Tribes:

• Established in: 2004.

Constitutional Provisions:

• It was established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A in the Constitution through the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.
• By this amendment, the erstwhile National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was replaced by two separate Commissions namely-
  • The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC), and
  • The NCST w.e.f. 19 February, 2004.

What is the composition of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes?

• The term of office of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and each member is three years from the date of assumption of charge.
• The Chairperson has been given the rank of Union Cabinet Minister, and the Vice-Chairperson that of a Minister of State and other Members have the ranks of a Secretary to the Government of India.

What are the functions of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (Under Clause (5) of Art. 338A)?

• To Monitor safeguards provided for STs under the Constitution or under other laws;
• To inquire into specific complaints relating to Rights & Safeguards of STs;
• To advise in the Planning Process relating to Socio-economic development of STs;
• To submit report to the President annually and other times on welfare Measures required related to Socio-economic development of STs;
• To discharge such other functions in relation to STs as the President may by rule specify;