authors
Vadithe Mallikarjuna Naik and K Chandrasekhar

abstract
The Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) was introduced as a focused policy framework to direct public investments for the welfare and development of Scheduled Tribes (STs). Despite clear constitutional provisions and legislative backing in both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, implementation challenges continue to hinder the desired outcomes. This study evaluates the effectiveness of TSP by analyzing budgetary flows, policy execution, and developmental impacts in selected tribal regions of both states. Drawing on budget documents, CAG audit reports, RTI responses, and departmental data from 2014-15 to 2023-24, the analysis reveals that while overall TSP allocations have grown, rising from ?3,212 crore to ?5,384 crore in Andhra Pradesh and seeing similar increases in Telangana, utilization rates remain inconsistent, often falling below 70%. In Telangana, nearly ?1,200 crore earmarked under TSP remained unspent in 2021-22. Challenges such as delayed fund release, non-prioritized allocation of funds, and limited community involvement in planning were noted as key impediments. The study highlights that, although TSP aims to bridge socio-economic gaps, implementation often lacks convergence across departments, monitoring at the grassroots level, and effective engagement with tribal institutions like Integrated Tribal Development Agencies (ITDAs) and Gram Sabhas. The findings underscore the need for a more decentralized, transparent, and responsive system of planning and fund deployment to ensure that tribal populations receive the full benefits of targeted development efforts. Policy recommendations focus on capacity building, digital tracking of expenditure, and strengthening institutional linkages to improve TSP outcomes sustainably.