Q. Which of the following statements correctly explains the rationale behind the inclusion of only Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution?
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Red Book

[A] These states had the highest tribal population in India at the time of independence.

[B] The tribal communities in these states were entirely economically dependent on the forest produce.

[C] The tribal people in these states retained their distinct culture and customs, unlike other tribal communities in India.

[D] The British had declared these regions as Scheduled Areas during colonial rule.

Answer: C
Notes:

Explanation:
The rationale for making special arrangements specifically for Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram is as follows:

  • Unlike tribal communities in other parts of India who have largely assimilated into the dominant cultures around them, the tribes in these four states have retained a distinct cultural identity.
  • They continue to uphold their traditional customs, practices, and way of life, with minimal integration into the mainstream societal framework. These regions have often been regarded as unique from an anthropological perspective.
  • Recognizing this, the Constitution provides these states with distinct treatment and grants significant autonomy to their tribal populations for self-governance.

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