17 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

5 min

Social IssuesPolity & GovernanceEXPLAINED

Demand for separate Census classification for Denotified, Nomadic, Semi-Nomadic Tribes

Community leaders push for DNT enumeration in Census, citing historical injustices.

Photo by Varun Gaba

Background Context

The demand for a separate Census classification stems from the historical context of the Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) of 1871. This Act labeled certain communities as “criminal,” leading to their stigmatization and marginalization. After the CTA's repeal in 1952, these communities became known as Denotified Tribes (DNTs). However, the stigma and discrimination persisted, hindering their access to resources and opportunities. Specific enumeration of these communities ceased after the repeal of the CTA. The lack of accurate data on DNT populations makes it difficult to design and implement targeted welfare programs.

Why It Matters Now

The current push for a separate Census classification is driven by the upcoming second phase of the Census due in 2027. Community leaders are advocating for a dedicated column in the Census form to identify DNTs. This demand is supported by academics and scholars who emphasize the need for accurate data to address the specific challenges faced by DNTs. They argue that a separate classification would facilitate the issuance of DNT certificates and ensure effective implementation of welfare schemes. The government's response to this demand is crucial for ensuring social justice and inclusion for these historically marginalized communities.

Key Takeaways

•DNTs were historically classified as 'criminal' under the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871.
•The CTA was repealed in 1952, leading to the denotification of these communities.
•Specific enumeration of DNTs in the Census ceased after the repeal of the CTA.
•Community leaders are demanding a separate Census classification for DNTs to ensure accurate data collection.
•This data is crucial for designing and implementing targeted welfare programs for DNTs.
•The demand is supported by academics and scholars who emphasize the need for social justice and inclusion.
•The government's response will determine the future of DNT welfare and recognition.

Different Perspectives

•Some argue that a separate classification is necessary to address the historical injustices and ongoing discrimination faced by DNTs.
•Others believe that existing classifications (SC, ST, OBC) are sufficient and that a separate category could lead to further fragmentation and administrative challenges.
•The government's perspective is that it is considering the demands but has not yet committed to a separate classification, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach.

Related Concepts

Criminal Tribes Act Denotified Tribes Nomadic Tribes Semi-Nomadic Tribes Census of India Social Justice Marginalized Communities

The Union government assured community leaders from Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) that the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India had agreed to enumerate these communities in the upcoming second phase of the Census due in 2027. DNTs were classified as "criminal" by colonial administrators via the Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) of 1871. The CTA was repealed in 1952, leading to denotification.

Since then, specific enumeration of these communities was removed from Censuses. The Idate Commission identified close to 1,200 DNT communities, most assimilated into SC, ST, or OBC lists, and 268 unclassified. A NITI Aayog study on the 268 unclassified communities is in cold storage.

The Social Justice Ministry rolled out the SEED scheme for DNTs, but only a fraction of the intended ₹200 crore has been spent due to issues with DNT certificate issuance. DNT associations are demanding a separate Constitutional classification and sub-classification to address discrimination and ensure uniform DNT certificate issuance.

Key Facts

The Union government assured community leaders that the Census Commissioner of India agreed to enumerate DNTs in the upcoming Census.

DNTs were classified as 'criminal' by colonial administrators via the Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) of 1871.

The CTA was repealed in 1952, leading to the denotification of these communities.

Community leaders are demanding a 'separate column' for DNTs in the Census form.

The Idate Commission’s report identified close to 1,200 communities that were DNTs.

The Social Justice Ministry rolled out the SEED scheme for DNTs, but only a fraction of the intended ₹200 crore spending has been utilized.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Social Justice - Vulnerable Sections of the population

Connects to issues of social exclusion, historical injustice, and affirmative action

Potential for questions on government policies for marginalized communities and constitutional provisions for social justice

In Simple Words

Some groups in India, called Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs), were once labeled as criminals by the British. Now, they want to be counted separately in the Census, which is like a national headcount. This would help the government understand their specific needs and create programs to support them.

India Angle

In India, many communities face unique challenges due to historical discrimination. A separate Census count for DNTs could help ensure they get access to education, jobs, and other opportunities, just like other marginalized groups.

For Instance

Think of it like a school deciding to offer special classes for students who need extra help. To know how many students need the classes, they first need to identify them separately. Similarly, the Census can help identify DNTs for targeted support.

If DNTs are counted separately, it could lead to better policies that address their specific problems, like lack of access to education or healthcare. This can improve their lives and help them become equal members of society.

Counting DNTs separately can help right historical wrongs and ensure they get the support they need to thrive.

Visual Insights

Key Statistics Related to DNTs

Highlights key figures related to Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) mentioned in the article.

Number of DNT Communities Identified by Idate Commission: 1,200
Number of Unclassified DNT Communities: 268
SEED Scheme Outlay: ₹200 crore

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) of 1871: 1. The Act was enacted by the British colonial administration in India. 2. The Act classified certain communities as inherently criminal. 3. The Act was repealed immediately after India gained independence in 1947. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) of 1871 was indeed enacted by the British colonial administration in India. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Act classified certain communities as inherently criminal, leading to their marginalization and oppression. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The CTA was repealed in 1952, not immediately after India's independence in 1947. It took several years after independence for the Act to be repealed.

2. Which of the following statements best describes the primary objective of the SEED scheme?

A.To provide financial assistance for education, health, livelihood, and housing to Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs).
B.To promote cultural activities and festivals among Scheduled Tribes (STs).
C.To provide skill development training to unemployed youth in urban areas.
D.To offer subsidized loans to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in rural areas.

Show Answer

Answer: A

The SEED scheme, launched by the Social Justice Ministry, is specifically designed to provide financial assistance for education, health, livelihood, and housing to Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs). The other options describe different schemes or initiatives targeting other groups.

3. The Idate Commission is associated with which of the following?

A.Reviewing the criteria for identifying Scheduled Castes (SCs).
B.Identifying and classifying Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs).
C.Recommending measures for the welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
D.Studying the impact of climate change on tribal communities.

Show Answer

Answer: B

The Idate Commission was specifically tasked with identifying and classifying Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs). It identified close to 1,200 DNT communities.

4. Assertion (A): Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) often face challenges in accessing government schemes and benefits. Reason (R): Many DNT communities lack a specific Constitutional classification, leading to difficulties in obtaining necessary certificates and documentation. In the context of the above, which of the following is correct?

A.Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
B.Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
C.A is true, but R is false.
D.A is false, but R is true.

Show Answer

Answer: A

Assertion (A) is true because DNTs do face challenges in accessing government schemes. Reason (R) is also true because the lack of a specific Constitutional classification makes it difficult for them to obtain the necessary certificates and documentation to prove their eligibility for these schemes. Furthermore, Reason (R) correctly explains why Assertion (A) is true.