Why in News
A proposal on the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes list has been examined and rejected.
This the second time the SC rejecting in 40 years.
The Union and Manipur governments have not made this information public during the ongoing ethnic conflict in the State.
The Hill Areas Committee in Manipur passed a resolution against the order amidst growing opposition by tribal groups.
Criteria for inclusion in ST
The criteria for inclusion in the ST list,
Indications of primitive traits: This may include distinctive features of physical appearance, dress, language, or customs.
Distinctive culture: This may include features of religion, art, music, dance, or literature.
Geographical isolation: The living in remote or inaccessible areas.
Shyness of contact : This may be due to a number of factors, such as language barriers, cultural differences, or economic disadvantage.
Backwardness: Indicators of social, educational, and economic disadvantage.
Criteria for inclusion in ST
The criteria for inclusion in the ST list,
It is important to note that these criteria are not mutually exclusive.
A community may meet one or more of them in order to be considered for inclusion in the ST list.
The decision of whether or not to include a community in the ST list is made by the President of India, on the advice of the Union Cabinet.
The Cabinet considers the recommendations of a number of bodies, including the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes and the Office of the Registrar General of India.
Lokur Committee
The Lokur Committee was an advisory committee set up by the Government of India in 1956.
To revise the lists of SC and ST.
The committee was chaired by Justice S.R. Lokur.
he Lokur Committee's criteria have been criticized by some as being outdated and discriminatory. Despite the criticisms, the Lokur Committee's criteria remain in place.
The Scheduled Tribes list is used to identify tribal communities that are eligible for special government benefits and programs.
Lokur Committee
These benefits and programs are designed to help tribal communities to overcome the challenges they face and to achieve social, economic, and educational development.
The Lokur Committee's recommendations have had a significant impact on the lives of tribal communities in India.
The committee's criteria have helped to ensure that tribal communities are recognized and protected by the government.
The committee's work has also helped to raise awareness of the challenges faced by tribal communities and to promote their development.
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