Context

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has taken cognisance of representations sent to it against a June advisory of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), asking state forest departments to submit action plans on the relocation of villages from tiger reserves.

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST):

• The NCST is a constitutional body in India. 
• It was established in 2003 by the 89th Constitutional Amendment Act. 
• It replaced the Special Officer for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. 
• It is responsible for safeguarding the rights and interests of Scheduled Tribes (STs).

Composition of the NCST

• The NCST consists of one chairperson, one vice-chairperson, and three full-time members. 
• One of the members must be a woman. 
• The members are appointed by the President of India.

Functions of the NCST

• Investigate and monitor matters relating to safeguards provided for STs under the Constitution or other laws or under government programs.
• Inquire into specific complaints relating to rights and safeguards of STs.
• Participate and advise in the planning process relating to the socio-economic development of STs.  
• Evaluate the progress of development programs for STs.Present an annual report to the President on the working of safeguards for STs.
• Undertake and promote research and studies on STs.
• Disseminate information on STs.
• Perform any other functions as assigned by the President.

Powers of the NCST

• The NCST has the power to call for information and documents from any person or authority.
• It can summon and examine witnesses.
• It can recommend measures for the welfare and development of STs.

Importance of the NCST

• The NCST plays a crucial role in protecting the rights and interests of STs.
• It helps to ensure that STs are not discriminated against and that they have access to education, healthcare, and other basic amenities.
• It also works to promote the cultural identity and heritage of STs.

Additional Information

• The headquarters of the NCST is in New Delhi.

National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA)

• A statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• Established in 2005 following the recommendations of the Tiger Task Force.
• Created to strengthen tiger conservation in India.

Objectives of NTCA:

• Providing statutory authority to Project Tiger so its directives become legally binding.
• Fostering accountability of the central and state governments in managing Tiger Reserves.
• Providing a platform for parliamentary oversight.
• Addressing the livelihood concerns of people living near Tiger Reserves.

Key Functions of NTCA:

• Monitoring tiger populations and their habitats.
• Providing technical and financial assistance to Tiger Reserves.
• Developing and implementing conservation strategies.
• Coordinating with state governments and other stakeholders.
• Taking action against wildlife crime and poaching.

Achievements of NTCA:

• Increased tiger population in India from 1,411 in 2006 to 2,967 in 2022.
• Improved management of Tiger Reserves.
• Reduced threats to tigers, including poaching and habitat loss.
• Successfully reintroduced tigers in Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves.
• Developed translocation protocols for tigers.

Important Points to Remember:

• NTCA works closely with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB).
• Tiger reserves are the core areas for tiger conservation in India.
• The success of tiger conservation in India is a global achievement.