Which government ministry is primarily responsible for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes in India?

Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Ministry of Home Affairs
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Ministry of Rural Development

The correct answer is: A) Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the nodal ministry of the Government of India for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India. It was established in 1950 as the Ministry of Tribal Welfare. The ministry is responsible for formulating and implementing policies and programmes for the development of STs, including education, health, housing, employment, and social justice. It also provides financial assistance to STs for various development activities.

The Ministry of Home Affairs is responsible for the maintenance of internal security and law and order in the country. It is also responsible for the administration of the Union Territories. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is responsible for the welfare of the weaker sections of society, including SCs, STs, OBCs, minorities, and women. The Ministry of Rural Development is responsible for the development of rural areas and the welfare of rural people.

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the most appropriate ministry to be responsible for the welfare of STs because it has a specific mandate for this purpose. The other ministries do not have a specific mandate for the welfare of STs.