The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) is the nodal ministry of the Government of India responsible for the overall policy, planning, and coordination of programmes for the development and welfare of Scheduled Tribes (STs) across the country. Established on 12 October 1999, the Ministry was created to provide focused attention to the socio-economic development, protection of rights, and preservation of the rich cultural heritage of India’s tribal communities. Through its initiatives and partnerships, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs continues to advance the vision of inclusive and sustainable development for tribal communities aligned with the Prime Minister's vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.