Eklavya Model Residential Schools: Status and Expansion Update
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes
Why in news
In a Lok Sabha reply on July 30, 2026, the Minister of State for Tribal Affairs provided updated data on Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), including 728 approved schools, 508 operational, and 43 new schools inaugurated in 2025-26. The statement also highlighted measures to improve quality, fill vacancies, and expand infrastructure.
Background
Eklavya Model Residential Schools are a flagship scheme of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to provide quality residential education to Scheduled Tribe students in remote and tribal-dominated areas. The scheme aims to reduce educational disparities and promote holistic development.
Key facts
728 EMRS have been approved across India, of which 508 are operational.
In Bihar, 3 EMRS approved, 2 operational.
43 new EMRS were inaugurated during 2025-26.
9111 teaching and non-teaching staff already recruited; exams held for second batch of 7267 staff.
Quality improvement measures include modern classrooms, bridge courses, science/computer labs, libraries, sports facilities, smart classes, and vocational training in apparel, automotive, AR/VR, AI, beauty & wellness, agriculture, electronics, and retail.
States advised to fill vacancies via deputation/contract to avoid academic disruption.
Infrastructure gaps addressed through standardized designs, additional grants for upgradation, third-party inspections, and regular monitoring by National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS).
States also advised to operationalize EMRS in alternative buildings where feasible.
Prelims pointers
- Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS)
- Ministry of Tribal Affairs
- National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS)
- Lok Sabha
- Bihar: 3 approved, 2 operational
- 728 approved, 508 operational (as of July 2026)
- 43 new schools in 2025-26
- Vocational training sectors: apparel, automotive, AR/VR, AI, beauty & wellness, agriculture, electronics, retail
Mains angles
- GS2: Government policies and interventions for development of tribal communities – EMRS as a tool for educational equity.
- GS2: Issues relating to education – quality, access, and infrastructure in tribal areas.
- GS2: Role of NESTS and state governments in implementation of tribal welfare schemes.
- GS3: Skill development and employability – vocational training in EMRS.