Question

The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India does not deal with tribal areas of which one of the following states?

• A. Assam
• B. Meghalaya
• C. Sikkim
• D. Tripura

Hint:

Remember the mnemonic "AMTM" for the Sixth Schedule: Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram. If a state is not in this list, it is not part of the 6th Schedule.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: The Sixth Schedule (Articles 244(2) and 275(1)) provides for the administration of tribal areas in certain North-Eastern states by creating Autonomous District Councils (ADCs). These councils have significant legislative, judicial, and executive powers to protect tribal culture and land.

Step 1: The "AMTM" States.
The Sixth Schedule is specifically applicable only to four states in North-East India. A common mnemonic to remember these is "AMTM":
• Assam
• Meghalaya
• Tripura
• Mizoram

Step 2: The Status of Sikkim.
Sikkim is a North-Eastern state, but its administration is governed by special provisions under Article 371F, which was added when Sikkim joined the Indian Union in 1975. It does not fall under the Sixth Schedule framework.

Step 3: Powers of ADCs.
In the AMTM states, the ADCs can make laws on land, forests, marriage, and social customs. They even have the power to collect certain taxes. This is a form of "asymmetric federalism" designed to give tribal communities a high degree of self-governance.