
NCST recommends ‘tribal area’ status for Ladakh
Why is it in the news?
- The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) recommended that Ladakh be declared a tribal area under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
- The NCST’s recommendation comes against the backdrop of growing demand from a predominantly tribal population and political leaders of Ladakh for according “tribal area” status to the region.
More in the news
- The Sixth Schedule provides for the administration of tribal areas after setting up autonomous district and regional councils.
- As per the NCST, this will help in following:(1) Democratic devolution of powers.(2) Preserve and promote distinct culture of the region.(3) Protect agrarian rights including rights on land.(4) Enhance transfer of funds for speedy development of the region.
- The Home Ministry is the central authority for declaring an area as a tribal area.
Source
The Hindu.