Census Enumeration of Denotified Nomadic and Semi Nomadic Tribes

Separate column demand in Census

Census Enumeration of Denotified Nomadic and Semi Nomadic Tribes: The Office of the Registrar General of India (RGI) has decided to enumerate Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) in the upcoming Census 2027. There is a growing demand to create a separate column for these communities in the Census form. This step is seen as essential to ensure accurate population data and targeted welfare measures.

The absence of separate enumeration has historically limited access to government schemes, reservations, and welfare programs. Accurate Census data will help policymakers address issues related to education, health, and livelihood among these marginalized communities.

Static GK fact: The Registrar General of India, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for conducting the Census and maintaining demographic records.

Historical background of DNT communities

DNTs were originally classified as “criminal tribes” under the colonial Criminal Tribes Act, 1871. This law allowed the British administration to monitor and restrict the movement of certain communities based on occupation and lifestyle. It created long-term social stigma and exclusion.

The Act was repealed in 1952, and these groups were officially denotified, meaning their criminal status was removed. However, the stigma and economic marginalization continued for decades after independence.

Static GK Tip: The 1931 Census was the last Census to officially record detailed data on such communities, making current enumeration efforts historically significant.

Classification and identification challenges

The Idate Commission (2014–2017) identified nearly 1,200 DNT communities, many of which were later included under SC, ST, and OBC categories. However, it also found 268 communities that remained unclassified, leaving them outside formal welfare structures.

The Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) conducted detailed studies to categorize these communities and recommended their inclusion in appropriate constitutional categories. Proper classification ensures access to reservation benefits and social justice measures.

Static GK fact: The Anthropological Survey of India, established in 1945, functions under the Ministry of Culture and conducts anthropological research on India’s diverse populations.

Government welfare schemes and support

The government has introduced several schemes to support DNT communities. The Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs (SEED) provides education, health insurance, livelihood, and housing support. These programs aim to improve their overall socio-economic condition.

Scholarship programs such as the Dr. Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme (2014–15) help increase educational access. The Nanaji Deshmukh Hostel Scheme provides residential facilities for DNT students, supporting their academic growth.

Static GK Tip: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is the primary ministry responsible for welfare programs related to socially disadvantaged communities.

Institutional mechanisms for development

The Renke Commission (2008) was the first national commission established to identify and list DNT communities. It highlighted their socio-economic exclusion and recommended welfare measures.

The government also created the National Commission for DNTs (2014) and the Development and Welfare Board for Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC). These bodies focus on implementing welfare programs and ensuring inclusion in national development.

The inclusion of DNTs in Census 2027 with a separate column will provide reliable data. This step will improve policy planning, resource allocation, and social justice outcomes for these historically marginalized communities.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Census Enumeration of Denotified Nomadic and Semi Nomadic Tribes: