The tribal society which was neglected even after independence, its shoulders are now seen getting stronger under the Central government. This time's budget is a better example of this. The tribes had many expectations from the Central government, which it has succeeded in fulfilling. Tribal development has received a boost on the lines of development.
The budget for tribal welfare has increased from ₹10,237.33 crores in 2024-25 to ₹14,925.81 crores in 2025-26, showing an increase of 45.8%. The Budget for ST Development is not just a number – it is an opportunity for empowerment, sustainable development and better quality of life for tribal people. It has created its image as a game-changer for inclusive growth. The government has set up more than 670 special schools or Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) to provide quality education to tribal students in the country. Currently, around 1.25 lakh tribal students are enrolled in EMRS.
In the last 10 years, 30 medical colleges have been established in tribal dominated areas of the country.A special mission has also been launched to eradicate sickle cell disease in tribal communities. So far, five crore tribal people have been screened under the National Sickle Cell Anemia Eradication Mission.
"Dharti Aaba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Campaign" has been launched to improve the socio-economic condition of five crore tribal people. The initiative was originally introduced as Pradhan Mantri Janjati Unnat Gram Campaign (PM JUGA) aimed at upliftment of tribal communities by ensuring their homes and villages.
The budget allocation for this campaign (DAJGUA) has been increased four times, from Rs 500 crore to Rs 2,000 crore. The programme aims to bridge the infrastructure gap in 63,843 villages, improve access to health, education, Anganwadi facilities and provide livelihood opportunities. This effort being made by the Central Government will prove to be an important step in the future.
