Actual Article
Article 339: Control of the Union over the administration of Scheduled Areas and the welfare of Scheduled Tribes
(1) The President may at any time and shall at the expiration of ten years from the commencement of this Constitution by order appoint a Commission to report on the administration of the Scheduled Areas and the welfare of the Scheduled Tribes in the States.
(2) The executive power of the Union shall extend to the giving of directions to a State as to the drawing up and execution of schemes specified in the direction to be essential for the welfare of the Scheduled Tribes in the State.
UPSC Notes for Article 339
Explanation:
- Presidential Commission: Article 339(1) empowers the President to appoint a Commission to report on the administration of Scheduled Areas and the welfare of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the States, either at any time or mandatorily after ten years from the commencement of the Constitution.
- Union’s Executive Power: Article 339(2) extends the Union’s executive power to direct States to formulate and implement schemes deemed essential for the welfare of STs, ensuring centralized oversight and support.
Key Points:
- Monitoring and Reporting: The Commission appointed by the President plays a crucial role in monitoring and reporting on the administration and welfare of Scheduled Areas and STs, ensuring that these areas are governed effectively and the needs of STs are addressed.
- Central Oversight: Provides for the Union Government’s intervention in state matters concerning the welfare of STs, ensuring that national policies and schemes are implemented uniformly across states.
- Scheduled Areas: Focuses on areas designated as Scheduled Areas, which are typically regions with significant tribal populations requiring special administrative measures and development programs.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 339
Cases:
- No specific landmark cases directly interpreting Article 339, but it is often referenced in discussions about the administration and development of Scheduled Areas and the welfare of STs.
Commissions:
- Dhebar Commission (1960): One of the significant commissions appointed to report on the administration of Scheduled Areas and the welfare of STs. It provided comprehensive recommendations for improving the socio-economic conditions of STs.
- Bhuria Committee (1991): Another notable committee that reviewed the implementation of provisions for the welfare of STs and made significant recommendations.
Important Reports Related to Article 339:
- Dhebar Commission Report: Detailed the status of Scheduled Areas and recommended measures for the welfare and development of STs.
- Bhuria Committee Report: Provided insights into the implementation of policies and programs for the development of STs and suggested reforms.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 339
- (UPSC Prelims 2016) Under Article 339 of the Indian Constitution, who has the authority to appoint a commission to report on the administration of Scheduled Areas and the welfare of Scheduled Tribes?
A. The Prime Minister
B. The President
C. The Chief Minister
D. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha Correct Answer: B. The President - (UPSC Prelims 2018) According to Article 339(2), the executive power of the Union extends to giving directions to a State for what purpose?
A. For the implementation of economic policies
B. For the welfare of Scheduled Tribes
C. For the regulation of trade and commerce
D. For the maintenance of law and order Correct Answer: B. For the welfare of Scheduled Tribes
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 339
- Mains 2016: “Discuss the role of the Union Government under Article 339 in ensuring the welfare of Scheduled Tribes. How effective has the central oversight been in addressing the needs of Scheduled Areas and STs?”
- Mains 2019: “Evaluate the significance of the commissions appointed under Article 339 in reporting on the administration of Scheduled Areas. What are the key challenges and recommendations identified by such commissions?”
Additional Insights:
- Focus on Tribal Welfare: Article 339 highlights the special focus required for the administration and development of Scheduled Areas, ensuring that the welfare of STs is a national priority.
- Centralized Support and Oversight: The provision for Union Government’s directions to States ensures that policies and schemes for the welfare of STs are implemented effectively and uniformly across the country.
- Periodic Review: The mandatory review by a commission after ten years ensures continuous monitoring and assessment of the progress in the welfare and development of Scheduled Areas and STs.
Understanding Article 339 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides insights into the constitutional provisions for ensuring the welfare and development of Scheduled Tribes and the administration of Scheduled Areas. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms ensuring social justice and inclusive development within the Indian Constitution.