Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS)

Nearly 600 students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools across 12 states have successfully cleared top entrance exams for undergraduate courses in medicine and engineering. This is a remarkable achievement for students from marginalized tribal communities, showcasing the success of the program in providing access to the best educational opportunities.

About EMRS

Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) is a key initiative under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, aimed at providing quality residential education to students from Scheduled Tribes (ST). The program focuses on providing educational opportunities to ST students in remote and rural areas, helping them access opportunities they might otherwise miss.

History and Evolution

• Launched: The scheme has been operational since 1998 but was revamped in 2018-19 to expand its reach and improve the quality of facilities.

• Objective: The goal is to bring ST students at par with the general population, providing them with quality education from Class 6 to 12 and preparing them for further academic and professional opportunities.

Key Features of EMRS

1. Target Group:

   • The scheme primarily targets Scheduled Tribes students from remote areas, offering them residential education to ensure they receive a holistic learning experience, away from the challenges of their native environments.

   • The CBSE curriculum is followed, ensuring standardization of education at par with mainstream schools.

2. Geographical Outreach:

   • EMRS schools are being set up in blocks with over 50% ST population and at least 20,000 tribal persons.

   • The goal is to set up 728 EMRSs across India by 2026.

3. School Infrastructure:

   • Co-educational Residential Schools: They are designed to accommodate both boys and girls.

   • The schools are equipped with classrooms, administrative blocks, hostels, sports facilities, and specialized labs for subjects like science and computer studies.

   • Capacity: Each school has a capacity of 480 students (240 boys and 240 girls), ensuring equal representation for both genders.

4. Special Features:

   • Cultural Preservation: In addition to academics, schools emphasize the preservation of local tribal art and culture.

   • Skill Development and Sports: Training in sports and skill development is also integrated, enabling students to excel in diverse fields.

5. Admission and Reservation:

   • The schools are free of charge, ensuring that students from marginalized backgrounds do not face financial barriers.

   • Reservation: A significant portion of the seats is reserved for ST students. There is a provision for 10% non-ST students on available seats.

   • Sports Quota: 20% of seats are reserved for ST students who excel in sports, ensuring that the talented tribal youth can pursue their interests and skills.

Future Goals

• By 2026, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs aims to expand the network of EMRSs to 728 schools across India, bringing more tribal students into the fold of quality education and offering them better prospects for their futures.

Impact and Significance

• Empowerment of Tribal Students: EMRS plays a crucial role in uplifting tribal communities by offering quality education and bridging the gap between rural and urban students.

• Higher Education Access: The scheme’s success in sending students to top medical and engineering colleges illustrates its positive influence on creating pathways for higher education in competitive fields.

• Holistic Development: By including cultural, sports, and skills training, EMRS aims to develop well-rounded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the country.