Government Aims to Open 740 Eklavya Model Residential Schools

The government plans to build 740 Eklavya Model Residential Schools for around 3.5 lakh Scheduled Tribe (ST) youths. The government announced the news, on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. The government will offer financial help to improve tribal education. Over 1.05 lakh children are now enrolled in 392 Eklavya Model Residential Schools.  On November 15, we celebrate Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, a day commemorating the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Each block with at least 20,000 ST residents and a tribal population of more than 50% is required to have an EMRS.

Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS)

• The Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) plan began in 1997-98. It is one of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs flagship interventions. 
• The schools emphasise not just academic instruction but also the whole development of the students. 
• Each school has a capacity of 480 students and serves students in grades VI through XII.
• EMRS are residential schools that provide free education, including lodging, food, textbooks, and uniforms.
• Nodal Ministry - Ministry of Tribal Affairs. 

Other Features

• The Ministry of Tribal Affairs established the Eklavya Model Residential School.
• The EMR School follows the CBSE curriculum.
• States and Union Territories may establish EMRS through grants, as per Article 275(1) of the Indian Constitution.
• The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) is an independent institution under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Kendriya Vidyalayas

• The Second Central Pay Commission  recommended the formation of the Kendriya Vidyalayas Scheme. It was approved in 1962.
• The Ministry of Education once housed the Central School Organisation.
• The Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) was registered as a society under the Societies Registration Act in the year 1965.
• The Indian government entirely funds the Sangathan. 

Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya 

• According to the New Education Policy 1986, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas were started by the Central Government in India.  These schools have been opened mainly in rural areas.
• The Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya is a network of central schools overseen by the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (JNVS).
• They are run by Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, Noida.
• Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya was the brainchild of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
• The classes range from sixth to twelfth grade under JNV system.
• Under the Ministry of Education, Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti is an independent body.