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Home/Anthropology/Mains PYQ/2014/Paper II/Tribal Development, Policy & Safeguards
UPSC MainsAnthropology Optional Paper II 2014 10 Marks Model Answer Available

The Concept of PTG — 2014 Paper II

Question · 2014 · Paper II · 10 Marks

The concept of PTG

Model Answer

VAID ICS

Approach

  • Demand of Question: Explain the concept of Primitive Tribal Groups, the criteria used for their identification and their developmental significance.
  • Structuring the Response: Define PTGs, present the original criteria and note the later shift in terminology to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
  • Key Dimensions to Cover: Dhebar Commission context, identification criteria, PVTG, vulnerability, subsistence, literacy and targeted development.

Model Answer

Introduction: Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) were identified as especially vulnerable sections among Scheduled Tribes requiring focused developmental attention. The category was introduced in the 1970s; the term was later changed to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) because “primitive” was considered inappropriate.

The traditional criteria for identification included:

  • pre-agricultural level of technology;
  • low level of literacy;
  • stagnant or declining population;
  • subsistence-oriented economy.

Thus:

High vulnerability + Limited technological base + Poor socioeconomic indicators → PTG/PVTG classification

Examples include communities such as:

  • Birhor;
  • Baiga;
  • Chenchu;
  • Koraga;
  • Pahariya groups.

India currently recognizes 75 PVTG communities.

Their vulnerability is often linked with:

  • remoteness;
  • food insecurity;
  • poor health;
  • low educational access;
  • dependence on forests;
  • loss of customary resources.

A major criticism is that uniform criteria may overlook significant internal differences among communities.

Conclusion: The PTG/PVTG concept was created to ensure special protection and targeted development for the most vulnerable tribal communities, but interventions must remain culturally sensitive and community-specific rather than paternalistic.

2026 Write an account on the contribution of Verrier Elwin in developing policies for the tribal populations in post-independent India. 2026 Article 371A of the Indian Constitution. 2026 Discuss the impact of democratic institutions on the tribal populations of India. 2026 Write an account on Development Action Plan for Scheduled Tribes (DAPST).

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