Will Eklavya Schools Transform Education While Preserving Tribal Culture?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha announces the construction of six new Eklavya Model Residential Schools, enhancing educational opportunities for tribal students while preserving indigenous culture and languages. With a focus on quality education, sports, and skills development, these schools aim to reduce dropout rates and foster holistic growth in the community.
Key Takeaways
- Construction of six new EMRS to enhance education.
- Focus on quality education and preservation of tribal culture.
- Anticipated enrollment of over 10,000 students.
- Free resources provided for students including boarding and textbooks.
- EMRS aims to reduce dropout rates and foster holistic development.
Agartala, Oct 9 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, announced on Thursday that the construction of six additional Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) is set to be completed by March 2026. This initiative aims to offer quality education to tribal students and safeguard the culture and languages of the indigenous communities.
During the inauguration of the 480-seater EMRS at Jampuijala in the Sepahijala district of Western Tripura, Saha highlighted that EMRS is a key program of the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
He noted that since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office in 2014, the impact of EMRS across India has been palpable. PM Modi has inaugurated these schools both physically and virtually to ensure quality education and holistic growth for tribal students in rural regions.
In Tripura, 21 EMRS have been approved, with 12 currently operational, as stated by Saha, who also oversees the education sector. By March 2026, six more EMRS will be established in Ampi, Hezamara, Amarpur, Chawmanu, Mandwai, and Manu.
“Upon completion of all 21 EMRS, we anticipate accommodating over 10,000 students. We have also increased the pre-matric scholarships available for these students,” he mentioned.
At the newly inaugurated school in Jampuijala, 60 students have already enrolled, with the capacity to welcome around 480 students shortly. The primary focus of EMRS is to deliver quality education to Janajati (tribal) children from Class 6 to 12, emphasizing PM Modi's vision of providing adequate educational resources and facilities to the most marginalized segments of society.
Saha acknowledged that while some areas in the Northeastern region lack EMRS, Tripura has been granted 21 such institutions.
“Tripura has been recognized as a Front Runner State by NITI Aayog. Our state ranks as the third fully literate state in the country. We are committed to advancing education, and as per UNESCO standards, a state is declared 100% literate when 95% of its population is educated,” he explained.
According to Saha, these schools will also play a crucial role in preserving tribal culture and languages. Graduates from EMRS will act as change agents for social, economic, and cultural advancement while helping to reduce dropout rates.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that these educational institutions will provide quality learning experiences and will benefit Tripura in the future.
“EMRS not only focuses on education but also incorporates sports and skill development. These schools follow the CBSE curriculum and were established with the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya model in mind. Students receive free boarding, uniforms, textbooks, and additional coaching sessions,” CM Saha added.
Attending the event were Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma, Secretary K. Sasikumar, Tribal Welfare Director Subhasis Das, Sepahijala District Magistrate Sidharth Shiv Jaiswal, and SP Namit Pathak.
Point of View
The initiative led by Tripura's government to establish more Eklavya Model Residential Schools reflects a commendable commitment to improving educational opportunities for tribal communities. This approach prioritizes inclusivity and cultural preservation, showcasing a model that could be emulated by other regions across India.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Eklavya Model Residential Schools?
Eklavya Model Residential Schools aim to provide quality education to tribal students while preserving their culture and languages.
How many Eklavya Model Residential Schools are planned in Tripura?
Tripura plans to construct a total of 21 Eklavya Model Residential Schools, with six more expected to be completed by March 2026.
What benefits do students receive at EMRS?
Students at EMRS benefit from free boarding, uniforms, textbooks, and coaching classes, along with quality education focused on holistic development.
What is the significance of the Front Runner State status?
The Front Runner State status awarded by NITI Aayog reflects Tripura's advancements in education and literacy, promoting further development in these sectors.
How does EMRS contribute to reducing dropout rates?
By providing a supportive educational environment and resources, EMRS aims to motivate students to continue their education and reduce dropout rates.
