Across India’s rich and diverse tribal landscape, some communities continue to live on the margins, geographically isolated, with limited access to basic services and opportunities. Recognised as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), these communities represent some of the most at-risk populations among Scheduled Tribes.

Often residing in remote and hard-to-reach regions, PVTGs face unique challenges shaped by historical exclusion, fragile livelihoods, and restricted access to education, healthcare and infrastructure. Over time, changes in land use and resource access have further impacted their traditional ways of life, making everyday survival more uncertain.

The identification of these communities dates back to the Fifth Five Year Plan, when the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) approach was introduced to prioritise focused development for tribal populations. Based on specific socio-economic criteria, certain groups were then classified as Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs). In recent years, this terminology has been revised by the Government of India to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), reflecting a more sensitive and accurate understanding, while continuing to ensure targeted support for their all-round development.

While policy recognition is a critical step, meaningful change requires more than classification; it calls for sustained engagement, cultural sensitivity and community-led approaches that respect identity while expanding opportunities.

At KISS, our work with PVTG communities is rooted in dignity, inclusion and long-term empowerment, ensuring that no community is left behind in the journey towards equitable development.