Context:

Recently, the Annual Report 2022-23 of the NCSC (National Commission of Schedule Castes) has been submitted to the President of India. 

Key Highlights From the NCSC Report 

• Key Recommendation From NCSC 

• • The report may include recommendations for the measures required to be taken by the Union and the States for the effective implementation of those safeguards and other measures for the protection, welfare and socio-economic development of the Scheduled Castes.

About NCSC: National Commission For Scheduled Castes

• It is a Constitutional Body under Article 338 of the Indian Constitution.
• Mandate: To provide safeguards against the exploitation of Scheduled Castes and promote and protect their social, educational, economic and cultural interests.
• Function: The Commission has to present to the President annually and at other times as the Commission may deem fit.
• Composition: It comprises a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson, and three additional Members.
• Appointment: By the President with a warrant under his hand and seal.
  • The conditions of service and office tenure are also determined by the President.
• Historical Background: Initially, the Indian Constitution provided for the appointment of a Special Officer under Article 338 which was designated as the Commissioner for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
• Amendments & Changes: 
  • 65th Amendment Act, 1990: It replaced the one-member system with a multi-member National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
  • 89th Amendment Act, 2003: The erstwhile National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was replaced by two separate Commissions from the year 2004- National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST).
  • 102nd Amendment Act, 2018: It provides constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). Until 2018, NCSC was also required to discharge similar functions regarding the other backward classes (OBCs). 

News Source: PIB