The Disparity in Funding (More to Adivasi, Less to Lambada) in India: with Special reference e to Telangana state Government

Author

Professor ( Dr.) Lalith Kumar Dharavath


Abstract

 This study examines how asymmetric state expenditure under the Telangana government prioritises funding for indigenous Adivasi communities over the Lambada tribe, creating deep intra-tribal developmental disparities that are further aggravated by bureaucratic corruption and institutional fund diversion

This examines the growing intra-tribal socio-economic disparities arising from asymmetric state expenditure and institutional governance in India, with special reference to the Telangana state government. In recent fiscal cycles, sub-national welfare architectures have increasingly prioritised target-centric funding and dedicated development programmes for indigenous Adivasi communities, particularly Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). While this policy pivot aims to rectify historical marginalisation, it has concurrently resulted in a relative deceleration of welfare allocations and diminished programmatic focus for the socially and politically integrated Lambada (Banjara) community. Consequently, this asymmetric targeting has intensified intra-tribal friction regarding state resources and communal representation. Furthermore, this paper critically evaluates the implementation gap that severely compromises the efficacy of these targeted allocations. Ground-level assessments reveal that despite expanded budgetary provisions intended for Adivasi upliftment, tangible developmental outcomes remain severely stunted. This research demonstrates that institutional fund diversion, decentralized administrative leakages, and collusion between local political elites and the state bureaucracy systematically intercept developmental capital. Utilizing a comparative framework, the study analyses how these structural leakages render expanded budgets ineffective, transforming well-intentioned affirmative action into mechanisms of elite capture. Ultimately, the paper argues for a comprehensive recalibration of tribal development paradigms in Telangana, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced institutional accountability, transparent fund-tracking mechanisms, and equitable, data-driven distributive justice that balances the distinct developmental requirements of both Adivasi and Lambada populations.

Ultimately, addressing these intra-tribal funding disparities in Telangana requires shifting away from politically driven resource allocation models and implementing transparent, blockchain-based tracking alongside strict grassroots auditing to eliminate bureaucratic corruption and ensure equitable development for both Adivasi and Lambada communities.



Keywords

Asymmetric targeting, Adivasi welfare, Lambada community, Fiscal disparities, Sub-national governance, Bureaucratic corruption, Fund diversion, Elite capture, Intra-tribal friction, Telangana.



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References


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