Cab approves inclusion of tribal dominated Raj districts under Fifth Schedule

The Union Cabinet today gave approval for inclusion of certain areas in Rajasthan under the Fifth Schedule to the Constitution so that the tribals living there can avail benefit of protective measures under its provisions.

The areas comprising three complete districts -- Banswara, Dungarpur, Pratapgarh, nine tehsils, one block and 46 complete gram panchayats covering 227 villages in district Udaipur, Rajsamand, Chittorgarh, Pali and Sirohi of Rajasthan would be included in the scheduled areas, according to an official statement.

The Cabinet gave the approval for declaration of scheduled areas by revoking the Constitution order dated February 12, 1981 and promulgation of a new Constitution order.

"The promulgation of new order will ensure that the scheduled tribes of Rajasthan will get benefits of protective measures available under the Fifth Schedule to the Constitution of India," an official statement said.

The beneficiaries will include STs residing in Banswara, Dungarpur, Pratapgarh, and partial areas of Udaipur, Rajsamand, Chittorgarh, Pali and Sirohi districts of Rajasthan, the statement stated.

No additional funds are required as to be expended on account of declaration of scheduled areas. This will be part of Tribal sub-plan ( renamed as Tribal Sub-Scheme) within existing schemes of central and the state government for more focused attention in scheduled areas for effecting speedy development.