PM-JANMAN Scheme
Overview of the PM-JANMAN Scheme
The Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) is a significant initiative launched by the Government of India on November 15, 2023, aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). This ambitious scheme seeks to integrate these marginalized communities into the mainstream by providing essential services and infrastructure.
Objectives and Funding
PM-JANMAN is designed to uplift over 40 lakh individuals across 75 PVTG communities in 18 states and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The initiative has a substantial budget allocation of ₹24,104 crore, which will be utilized over a three-year period to implement various welfare measures[2][3]. The scheme focuses on several critical areas, including:
– Housing: Provision of safe and secure housing for approximately 4.9 lakh PVTG households.
– Healthcare: Improved access to medical facilities through mobile medical units.
– Education: Establishment of educational institutions such as hostels and Anganwadi centers.
– Livelihood Opportunities: Skill development programs tailored to the needs of PVTGs
Key Interventions
The PM-JANMAN scheme encompasses 11 critical interventions coordinated by nine different ministries, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tribal welfare. These interventions include:
1. Housing Construction: Building pucca houses for PVTG families.
2. Water Supply: Ensuring access to clean drinking water through piped supply systems.
3. Road Connectivity: Developing roads to improve access to remote villages.
4. Healthcare Services: Deploying mobile medical units to provide healthcare in underserved areas.
5. Skill Development: Facilitating vocational training and establishing multipurpose centers for skill enhancement.
| Intervention | Description | Targets |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Provision of Pucca Houses | Construction of durable houses for PVTG households. | 4.90 lakh households |
| 2. Connecting Roads | Development of road infrastructure to enhance connectivity. | 8,000 kilometers |
| 3. Piped Water Supply | Provision of individual and community water supply systems. | All PVTG habitations |
| 4. Mobile Medical Units | Deployment of mobile units to provide healthcare services in remote areas. | 1,000 units (10 per district) |
| 5. Vocational Education & Skilling | Establishment of vocational training centers and hostels for skill development. | 60 aspirational PVTG blocks |
| 6. Construction of Anganwadi Centers | Building centers for early childhood care and education. | 2,500 centers |
| 7. Multipurpose Centers (MPC) | Creation of community centers to facilitate various services and activities. | 1,000 centers |
| 8. Solar Power Initiatives | Installation of solar off-grid systems for electrification and solar street lighting in communities. | 100,000 households |
| 9. Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) | Establishment of centers for promoting livelihoods through forest produce trading. | 500 centers |
| 10. Installation of Mobile Towers | Enhancing telecommunications by setting up mobile towers in remote areas. | 3,000 villages |
| 11. Energization of Households | Providing last-mile connectivity for electricity supply to households lacking access. | 57,000 households |
These interventions are designed to address various aspects of life for PVTGs, including housing, healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities, thereby aiming to uplift these communities and integrate them into the mainstream socio-economic framework.
Challenges in Implementation
Despite its noble objectives, the PM-JANMAN scheme faces several challenges:
– Data Gaps: The last census data on PVTGs dates back to 2001, leading to difficulties in accurately assessing their current needs and population.
– Resource Allocation: There are concerns regarding the adequacy of funds allocated for housing construction, as many beneficiaries report that the provided budget is insufficient for building quality homes.
– Coordination Issues: Effective implementation requires seamless coordination between various governmental departments and local authorities, which can be complex given the diverse needs of different tribal groups.
Historical Context
The classification of PVTGs originated from the findings of the Dhebar Commission (1960-61), which identified disparities among Scheduled Tribes. Initially termed Primitive Tribal Groups, this category was renamed in 2006 to reflect their unique vulnerabilities. Currently, there are 75 recognized PVTG communities across India, characterized by low literacy rates, economic backwardness, and reliance on traditional livelihoods.
Key Objectives of PM-JANMAN
1. Housing and Infrastructure: One of the primary goals is to provide secure and habitable housing for PVTGs. The scheme aims to construct pucca houses for approximately 4.9 lakh PVTG households by 2026, replacing their current temporary structures that often lack basic amenities and are vulnerable to environmental challenges.
2. Basic Amenities: PM-JANMAN seeks to ensure access to essential services such as clean drinking water, sanitation, electricity, and improved road connectivity. This holistic infrastructure development is crucial for enhancing the quality of life in PVTG habitations.
3. Healthcare and Nutrition: The scheme incorporates health initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, aiming for comprehensive healthcare coverage, including immunization programs and nutritional support. Mobile Medical Units are also planned to reach remote areas, ensuring healthcare access.
4. Education and Skill Development: PM-JANMAN emphasizes improving educational facilities and integrating PVTG culture into school curricula. It also promotes vocational training and skill development to enhance livelihood opportunities, thereby addressing economic backwardness.
5. Sustainable Livelihoods: The mission includes provisions for sustainable livelihood opportunities through skill training, market linkages for forest produce, and support for traditional occupations. This approach helps in preserving their cultural heritage while promoting economic self-sufficiency.
Implementation Strategy
The implementation of PM-JANMAN involves a collaborative effort among various ministries, ensuring that existing schemes are adapted to meet the unique needs of PVTGs. This inter-ministerial convergence is designed to maximize resource utilization and effectiveness in reaching targeted communities.
Challenges and Recommendations
Despite its ambitious goals, the PM-JANMAN scheme faces several challenges:
– Data Gaps: There is a lack of current and accurate data on PVTG populations, which complicates planning and implementation efforts. Recommendations include conducting specific surveys to gather updated information.
– Community Involvement: Engaging local communities in decision-making processes is crucial for the success of the scheme. This participatory approach ensures that interventions are culturally sensitive and relevant.
– Resource Allocation: Ensuring timely disbursement of funds and avoiding bureaucratic delays will be vital for effective implementation. Increased budget allocations per housing unit may also be necessary to meet local needs adequately.
The PM-JANMAN scheme represents a significant step toward improving the living conditions of PVTGs by addressing their multifaceted needs through targeted interventions in housing, health, education, and livelihoods. Its success will depend on effective implementation strategies that prioritize community involvement and adapt to the unique challenges faced by these vulnerable groups.
Source: PIB
Government Schemes and Development Process
