Context: 

​​NCST is functioning with less than 50% of its sanctioned strength according to Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) data presented in Lok Sabha.

About NCST:

• The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) was established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A in the Constitution through the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003.
• By this amendment, the erstwhile National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was replaced by two separate Commissions namely-         (i) The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC), and                         (ii) The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) w.e.f.  February,              2004.
• Composition: It consists of a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson and 3 other Members who are appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal.
• Term: The term of office of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and each member is three years from the date of assumption of charge.
• The Chairperson has been given the rank of Union Cabinet Minister, and the Vice-Chairperson that of a Minister of State and other Members have the rank of a Secretary to the Government of India. 

Functions of the Commission:

• To investigate & Monitor matters relating to Safeguards provided for STs under the Constitution or under other laws or under Govt. Order, to evaluate the working of such Safeguards.
• To inquire into specific complaints relating to Rights & Safeguards of STs.
• To participate and Advise in the Planning Process relating to Socio-economic development of STs, and to Evaluate the progress of their development under the Union and any State
• To submit report to the President annually and as needed on the implementation of safeguards and programs for the welfare and socio-economic development of Scheduled Tribes.
• To discharge such other functions in relation to STs as the President may, subject to the provisions of any law made by Parliament, by rule specify.

 Source: The Hindu, ncst.nic.in