Social welfare policies pertaining to Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India are rooted in the constitutional vision of social justice, equality, and inclusive development. These policies aim to eliminate historical discrimination, reduce socio-economic inequalities, protect vulnerable communities from exploitation, and ensure their participation in the country's political, economic, and social life. The evolution of these policies reflects the commitment of the Indian state to affirmative action, protective discrimination, and targeted development. The Constitution of India provides a strong legal and institutional foundation for the welfare of SCs and STs. The Preamble emphasizes justice, equality, and fraternity, while the Directive Principles of State Policy encourage the state to promote the educational and economic interests of weaker sections. Article 15(4) and Article 15(5) empower the state to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes, including SCs and STs. Article 16(4) provides for reservation in public employment. Article 17 abolishes untouchability and prohibits its practice in any form. Article 46 directs the state to promote the educational and economic interests of SCs and STs and protect them from social injustice and exploitation. Special constitutional safeguards have been created for Scheduled Tribes under the Fifth and Sixth Schedules. The Fifth Schedule provides for the administration and control of Scheduled Areas and the welfare of tribal populations in most states, while the Sixth Schedule grants autonomous administrative powers to tribal areas in the northeastern states through Autonomous District Councils. Articles 330 and 332 provide reservations for SCs and STs in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies. Article 335 recognizes their claims in public services while maintaining administrative efficiency. Reservation policy has been one of the most significant social welfare measures. SCs and STs receive reservations in educational institutions, government employment, and elected bodies. These measures aim to improve representation and correct historical exclusion. Reservation has enabled greater participation of SCs and STs in administration, higher education, and democratic governance, though concerns remain regarding unequal access among different sub-groups and limited representation in higher-level positions. Educational welfare policies constitute a major component of social welfare initiatives. Governments provide pre-matric and post-matric scholarships, free textbooks, uniforms, hostel facilities, coaching schemes for competitive examinations, overseas scholarships, fellowships for higher education, and financial assistance for professional courses. Residential schools such as Eklavya Model Residential Schools have been established for tribal students to improve educational access in remote regions. The National Education Policy 2020 also emphasizes equitable and inclusive education for disadvantaged communities. Economic empowerment policies focus on enhancing livelihoods and reducing poverty. The Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCSP), now known as the Development Action Plan for Scheduled Castes (DAPSC), and the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP), now