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Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Meaning
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, often referred to as SC/ST, are officially recognized demographic groups in India. These designations are enshrined in the Indian Constitution, classifying individuals into one of these categories. Since India’s independence, SC/ST communities have been granted Reservation status, entitling them to political representation, preferential treatment in promotions, reserved seats in universities, access to free and stipended education, scholarships, banking services, and various government assistance programs. The Constitution outlines these affirmative measures with the primary objective of uplifting and integrating SC/ST communities into the mainstream of society. These policies aim to address historical socioeconomic disparities, combat caste-based discrimination, and empower marginalized and indigenous populations in pursuit of social justice.
Definition of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in India
Definition of Scheduled Castes
According to Article 366 (24) of the Constitution of India, the Scheduled Castes are defined as “such castes, races, or tribes, or parts of or groups within castes, races, or tribes, as are deemed under Article 341 to be Scheduled Castes for the purpose of this [Indian] Constitution.
Definition of Scheduled Tribes
Article 366 (25) provides the definition of scheduled tribes as “those tribes or tribal communities, or specific segments or factions within such tribes or tribal communities, that have been officially recognized as Scheduled Tribes for constitutional purposes under Article 342.
| Rajasthani Traditional Dress | Traditional Dress of Gujarat |
| Kerala Traditional Dress | Odisha Traditional Dress |
| Maharashtra Traditional Dress | Traditional Dress of Arunachal Pradesh |
History of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
Scheduled Castes History
Scheduled Castes have a significant historical presence in India. The term “Scheduled Castes” was first introduced by the Simon Commission in 1928 during its review of the constitutional reforms implemented in 1919. It played a pivotal role in shaping the Government of India Act 1935, marking the first-ever inclusion of the term “Scheduled Castes” in Indian legislation.
These communities, previously known as “untouchables,” had endured centuries of discrimination and were excluded from the traditional caste system. For generations, they were relegated to second-class citizenship and were not even recognized within India’s varna system of social hierarchy.
However, with the formation of the Indian Constitution, Scheduled Castes gained official recognition as a distinct group. The Constitution of India, in its wisdom, not only acknowledged their presence but also outlined provisions for their advancement and assimilation into the mainstream society. Following India’s independence, Scheduled Castes were accorded Reservation status, which entailed various benefits, including political representation, preferential treatment in employment, reservations in educational institutions, access to free and stipended education, scholarships, banking services, and participation in various government welfare schemes.
Moreover, the Constitution enshrined the fundamental principles of positive discrimination to uplift and empower Scheduled Castes, fostering social justice and equality in India.
Scheduled Tribes History
Scheduled Castes have a long history in India. The term “Scheduled Castes” was first used by a group called the Simon Commission in 1928. They came to India to check the laws made in 1919 about the Constitution. The Government of India Act 1935 was made based on what they found, and that’s when they included the word “Scheduled Castes” in Indian laws for the first time.
Before, these groups were known as “untouchables,” and they were not treated well. They were treated as second-class citizens for many years and were not even considered part of India’s social system.
But things changed with the Indian Constitution. It recognized these groups as a separate group and made laws to help them become a part of the larger society. After India became independent, Scheduled Castes got special treatment. They were given seats in politics, preference in jobs, spots in schools and colleges, free education, scholarships, access to banks, and help from the government.
The Constitution also said that we should help these groups in a positive way, so they have a better life. This helped them get justice and equal rights in India.
| Culture of Rajasthan | Culture of Kerala |
| Culture of Manipur | Culture of Assam |
| Culture of Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Culture of Telangana |
| Culture of Bihar | Odisha Culture |
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes List
Below we have discussed the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes list separately with their population by states.
Population of Scheduled Castes List
The Scheduled Castes, also known as Dalits, represent a socio-economically disadvantaged group in India, and their population has been steadily increasing over the years. According to census data, the Scheduled Caste population constitutes a significant percentage of the total population. However, the distribution of Scheduled Castes varies among states and regions, with some areas having a higher proportion than others. The demographic trends and current status of Scheduled Castes in India have been influenced by various factors, including social, economic, and political changes. Below is the list of Scheduled Caste population by state.
| State | Scheduled Caste population |
| Andhra Pradesh | 13,878,078 |
| Arunachal Pradesh | 0 |
| Assam | 2,231,321 |
| Bihar | 16,567,325 |
| Chhattisgarh | 3,274,269 |
| Goa | 25,449 |
| Gujarat | 4,074,447 |
| Haryana | 5,113,615 |
| Himachal Pradesh | 1,729,252 |
| Jammu & Kashmir | 924,991 |
| Jharkhand | 3,985,644 |
| Karnataka | 10,474,992 |
| Kerala | 3,039,573 |
| Madhya Pradesh | 11,342,320 |
| Maharashtra | 13,275,898 |
| Manipur | 97,042 |
| Meghalaya | 17,355 |
| Mizoram | 1,218 |
| Nagaland | 0 |
| Odisha | 7,190,184 |
| Punjab | 8,860,179 |
| Rajasthan | 12,221,593 |
| Sikkim | 28,275 |
| Tamil Nadu | 14,438,445 |
| Tripura | 654,918 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 41,357,608 |
| Uttarakhand | 1,892,516 |
| India | 201,378,086 |
Population of Scheduled Tribes List
Scheduled Tribes (STs) represent one of India’s most underprivileged socio-economic segments. They are recognized as indigenous communities, distinct from the caste system, and possess unique cultural identities. As per the 2011 census, the tribal population in India has grown to 104.2 million, constituting 8.6% of the nation’s total populace and 11.3% of its rural inhabitants. This population plays a crucial role in the diverse fabric of India’s societal landscape, and their inclusion is governed by specific legislation and policies aimed at addressing historical injustices and socio-economic disparities. Below is the list of Scheduled Tribe population by state.
| State | Scheduled Tribe population |
| West Bengal | 5,294,014 |
| Uttarakhand | 292,502 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 1,138,930 |
| Tripura | 1,166,836 |
| Tamil Nadu | 793,617 |
| Sikkim | 205,886 |
| Rajasthan | 9,240,329 |
| Punjab | 0 |
| Odisha | 9,591,108 |
| Nagaland | 1,710,612 |
| Mizoram | 1,036,201 |
| Meghalaya | 2,555,974 |
| Manipur | 903,235 |
| Maharashtra | 10,507,000 |
| Madhya Pradesh | 15,316,994 |
| Kerala | 484,387 |
| Karnataka | 4,246,123 |
| Jharkhand | 8,646,189 |
| Jammu & Kashmir | 1,492,414 |
| Himachal Pradesh | 391,968 |
| Haryana | 0 |
| Gujarat | 8,914,854 |
| Goa | 148,917 |
| Chhattisgarh | 7,821,939 |
| Bihar | 1,332,472 |
| Assam | 3,885,094 |
| Arunachal Pradesh | 951,865 |
| Andhra Pradesh | 5,920,654 |
Difference Between Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
| Scheduled Castes | Scheduled Tribes |
| Also known as Dalits | Also known as Adivasis or Tribal Groups |
| Traditionally and socially marginalized | Socially banned in India and face discrimination because of their race |
| Article 341 of the Indian Constitution determines who are Scheduled Castes | Article 342 of the Indian Constitution determines who are Scheduled Tribes |
| Percentage of the Indian population | Percentage of the Indian population |
| Reservation status granted since the independence of India, guaranteeing political representation, preference in promotion, quota in universities, free and stipended education, scholarships, banking services, various government schemes | Reservation status granted since the independence of India, guaranteeing political representation, preference in promotion, quota in universities, free and stipended education, scholarships, banking services, various government schemes |
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Acts
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) represent officially recognized groups in India, and they are among the most socio-economically disadvantaged segments of society. These groups have been accorded Reservation status, which ensures various benefits and safeguards for their welfare and advancement. This policy aims to address historical injustices and promote social equality in the country. Below we have discussed important Acts related to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Orders (Amendment) Act 1976
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Orders (Amendment) Act, 1976 is an Indian legislation that addresses the inclusion and exclusion of certain castes and tribes in the lists of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. It also deals with the re-adjustment of representation in parliamentary and assembly constituencies necessitated by such changes and related matters[4]. This Act was enacted on September 18, 1976, and it amended the Scheduled Castes Order as specified in the First Schedule[5]. The Act has been in effect since July 27, 1997. Its primary objective is to ensure periodic updates and revisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes lists, incorporating or removing certain castes and tribes based on their socio-economic status and other relevant factors.
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (prevention of atrocities) Act
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, is an Indian legislation formulated to prevent the commission of offenses of atrocities against members of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. This Act mandates the establishment of Special Courts for the trial of such offenses and provides for the relief and rehabilitation of the victims. It is applicable throughout India, excluding the state of Jammu & Kashmir, and became effective on January 30, 1990. Under this Act, “atrocity” is defined as an offense punishable as per its provisions, and it outlines measures for the economic and social rehabilitation of victims. The primary objective of the Act is to ensure justice for the scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities, safeguarding them from various forms of atrocities.
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Lists (modification) Order 1956
“The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Lists (Modification) Order of 1956 holds significant legal importance within India. This enactment serves the purpose of both including and excluding specific castes and tribes from the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes lists, while also readjusting parliamentary and assembly constituency representation. This order officially took effect on October 29, 1956. Its pivotal role lies in ensuring the rightful representation and safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes across India. Over the years, this order has undergone amendments and updates to mirror the evolving composition and status of these groups.
FAQs on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in India
What is Difference between Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes
Scheduled Castes are those castes, races, or tribes deemed under Article 341, while Scheduled Tribes are tribal communities deemed under Article 342 of the Indian Constitution.
Who are called scheduled caste?
Scheduled Castes are those castes, races, or tribes or part of or groups within such castes, races, or tribes as deemed under Article 341 to be Scheduled Castes for the purpose of the Constitution.
What is the meaning of Scheduled Tribes?
Scheduled Tribes are defined as such tribes or tribal communities or part of or groups within such tribes or tribal communities as are deemed under Article 342 to be Scheduled Tribes for the purpose of the Constitution.
What is the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Act 1956?
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Lists (Modification) Order, 1956 provides for the inclusion in, and the exclusion from, the lists of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, and the re-adjustment of representation of parliamentary and assembly constituencies.
How many castes are there in SC?
The number of castes in the Scheduled Castes varies, and there are numerous castes that are included in the list of Scheduled Castes in India.
Which State has no scheduled caste?
According to the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland have no scheduled castes.
Why it is called schedule caste?
The term 'Scheduled Caste' is used because these castes are listed in a schedule, or list, by the government for special consideration and affirmative action.
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Act was introduced by who?
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Act, or the official recognition of these groups, is based on the Indian Constitution, which was established by the Constituent Assembly of India.
