Which Article envisages the establishment of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes?

Appeared in: UPPSC 2023

Explanation

Article 338 of the Indian Constitution mandates the establishment of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC).
The NCSC is a constitutional body responsible for monitoring safeguards provided for the Scheduled Castes and investigating matters concerning their rights and welfare.
This provision was shaped by the 65th Amendment (1990) which created a combined commission, and later the 89th Amendment (2003) which created separate commissions for SCs (Art. 338) and STs (Art. 338A).

Option B: This article, introduced by the 106th Amendment Act, pertains to the reservation of seats for women in the Lok Sabha, not the NCSC.
Option C: This article addresses the claims of SCs and STs to government jobs and posts, ensuring their consideration while maintaining administrative efficiency.
Option D: This article mandates the reservation of seats for SCs and STs in the Legislative Assemblies of the States.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Constitutional Provisions for Scheduled Castes as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding these articles is crucial for public policy and administration roles, ensuring awareness of the constitutional safeguards for marginalized communities.
Knowledge of these provisions is frequently tested in competitive examinations for government services, including those in the healthcare sector.
What if the question asked for the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes? The correct answer would be Article 338A, which was created by the 89th Amendment Act of 2003.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question from the subject of Indian Polity.
First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'National Commission for Scheduled Castes'.
Next, recall the specific constitutional article related to this commission.
Evaluate the given options. Article 338 is directly associated with the NCSC.
Differentiate it from other related articles: Articles 330/332 (reservations in legislatures), Article 335 (jobs), and Article 338A (NCST).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Handbook of Forensic Nursing Suresh Sharma pp. 69-71, 70-72

Practise the full UPPSC 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.