Government Advances Tribal Welfare with PM JANMAN and PM JUGA

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has highlighted significant progress in tribal welfare under initiatives like PM JANMAN and PM JUGA. Over the past 12 years, these programs have focused on ensuring dignity, opportunity, and growth for marginalized tribal communities.

Launched in November 2023, PM JANMAN targets 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) across 18 states and 1 union territory. With a budget of ₹24,104 crore, it addresses critical gaps in housing, water, electricity, healthcare, and livelihoods. Notably, 491 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) have been operationalized, benefiting over 38,000 PVTG members through skilling and entrepreneurship training.

PM JUGA, introduced in October 2024, integrates efforts from 17 ministries to uplift tribal-majority villages. Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) have also expanded, with 499 schools now serving over 1.56 lakh students. These schools provide modern education and facilities, enabling many first-generation learners to excel, as seen in the success of students like Jatin Negi, who secured admission to IIT Jodhpur.

The government has also strengthened Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs) to preserve tribal culture and knowledge. These institutes document traditions, promote awareness, and contribute to policy development.

These initiatives reflect a shift from fragmented welfare delivery to a saturation-based approach, ensuring that remote tribal regions are no longer left behind in India's development journey.

Source: Press Information Bureau (Govt. of India) press release, 12 JUN 2026. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2271997