NAC Recommendations for PVTGs (2013)

National Advisory Council (NAC) headed by Smt. Sonia Gandhi in 2013 came up with specific recommendations for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

The primary objective of the study was to assess the conditions of PVTGs and recommend measures to protect their livelihoods.

• The study noted that there are 75 PVTGs spread across 14 states and 1 UT. Some important recommendations for their welfare as per the study include,
  • Giving Schedule Tribes (STs) status to all PVTGs.
  • Access to legal rights under Forests Rights Act, 2006.
  • Social audits of developmental programs aimed for their welfare.
  • Special census to ascertain their numbers. As per 2001 census, PVTGs population was 2.77 million.
  • A rights-based approach to ensure their empowerment and elimination of discrimination.
  • Habitat approach to develop livelihood strategies, etc.

The recommendations of the council are awaiting consideration due to change in government at the centre.