The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has largely been confined to a monitoring and advisory role. What are the impediments in the functioning of NCST despite the constitutional status, and also suggest reforms.

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes is a Constitutional body under Article 338A that adjudicates on all cases related to ST committing of India. Role of NCST: (1) Investigate cases related to atrocities against STs. (2) Petitions/Writ body to demand writs and evidence. (3) Provide recommendations for ST welfare with report presented to Parliament annually. (4) Provide approval to declare area as under Schedule 5/6 of the Indian Constitution.

Impediments in functioning of NCST: (1) Inadequate independence/autonomy - lack to political and executive interference. (2) Inadequate monetary powers renders the Commission weak in handling cases on its own accord. (3) Recommendations made by the body in safeguarding and promoting rights. (4) Need for a stronger workforce to cater to the specific demands of NCST - current lethargy in administrative work. (5) Inadequate domain expertise of officers in NCST makes it a tell-stop that desired get work done.

Reforms Required: (1) Make recommendations binding - creating statutory duty on government to act accordingly. (2) Lateral entry of NGO workers to enhance domain knowledge and expertise. (3) Greater investigative powers to curb crimes against ST. (4) Enhanced use of technology for digital administration. The ST population makes up 8% of India's population, strengthening of NCST is required to ensure protection & promotion of rights of STs.