The government of Jharkhand established the Jharkhand Tribal Advisory Council (JTAC) on 26 February 2025. This is a major step toward empowering tribal representation in policymaking. The council will safeguard the rights of the tribals and the development of the Scheduled Tribes in Jharkhand, as per constitutional provisions contained in the Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Constitutional Provisions About Tribal Advisory Council
The formation of the Tribal Advisory Council (TAC) is regulated by Article 244(1) and the Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. These provisions are concerned with the administration and control of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes in states other than Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
Important Constitutional Powers About Scheduled Tribes:
- Article 244(1): Regulates the administration of Scheduled Areas and Tribes under the Fifth Schedule.
- Fifth Schedule: Authorizes the Governor to make peace and good governance regulations for Scheduled Areas.
- Article 339(1): Offers a provision for a report from a commission regarding the administration of Scheduled Areas and the well-being of Scheduled Tribes.
- Tribal Advisory Council (TAC): Constituted in states with Scheduled Areas to advise on tribal welfare matters.
- Governor’s Powers: The Governor can amend or annul Parliament- or State Legislature-passed legislation regarding Scheduled Areas.
Objectives and JTAC Role
The Jharkhand Tribal Advisory Council (JTAC) is mandated to deal with major tribal problems and advise the government on Scheduled Tribe policies.
Major Responsibilities:
- Advising the government on tribal welfare schemes and policies.
- Ensuring proper implementation of constitutional provisions of the Fifth Schedule.
- Dealing with land rights problems and avoiding exploitation of tribal communities.
- Encouraging education, healthcare, and job opportunities for Scheduled Tribes.
- Strengthening legal protection for traditional tribal lands and resources.
Leadership and Membership of JTAC
- Hemant Soren, the Chief Minister of Jharkhand, is the ex-officio chairman of JTAC, which makes the government’s commitment to tribal welfare even clearer.
- Chamra Linda, Minister of Scheduled Tribe, Scheduled Caste, and Backward Welfare, is the ex-officio vice-chairman.
Distinguished Members of JTAC:
The council comprises some of the leading legislators to ascertain large-scale representation from various tribal communities. Some of the most important members are:
- Sanjib Sardar (Potka MLA): A staunch champion of tribal rights and development.
- Prof. Stephen Marandi (Maheshpur MLA): An old hand in politics with vast experience in tribal matters.
- Alok Kumar Soren (Shikaripara MLA), Louis Marandi (Jama MLA), Champai Soren (Saraikela MLA, former Chief Minister), and Sonaram Sinku (Jagannathpur MLA).
- Other MLAs like Jagat Manjhi, Dashasth Gagrai, Sudeep Gudiya, Ram Surya Munda, Rajesh Kachhap, Jiga Susaran Horo, Naman Bixal Kongadi, and Ramchandra Singh.
- Former Chief Minister Babulal Marandi and nominated members Josai Mardi and Narayan Oraon also contribute to the council’s diversity of representation.
Significance of JTAC in Tribal Development
The establishment of the Jharkhand Tribal Advisory Council is a landmark step towards ensuring the rights and well-being of Jharkhand’s Scheduled Tribes.
Principal Advantages:
Increased representation of tribals in the government and policymaking processes.- Straightforward interaction of the government with tribal communities.
- Drafting specific policies to respond to tribal issues.
- Safeguarding tribal culture, languages, and practices.
- Sustainable development while the tribals’ land and resources are preserved.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite its importance, JTA C’s success is contingent upon overcoming crucial challenges that include:
- Timely implementation of policies without bureaucratic delays.
- Resolution of land alienation and displacement problems of tribals.
- Ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making.
- Coordination with the local tribal leaders for successful policy implementation.
