Tribal development has been a catch word in development literature during the post–independence era. Planners, bureaucrats, academicians, NGO activists and others engaged in tribal issues invariably invoke the phrase as a panacea for tribal maladies. It is a very comprehensive term and includes all measures directed to solve tribal problems and promote tribal welfare. The significance of welfare of the tribes was well recognised by the national leaders also prior to independence and special provisions were made for it at the time of framing the Constitution. There was concern for tribals right from the First Five Year Plan and 0.06 per cent of total plan outlay was allocated for tribal welfare.