The National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for establishing integrated Computer Lab-cum-Smart Classroom facilities in 29 functional Eklavya Model Residential Schools across 11 districts of Rajasthan. The project has a total budget of ₹16.01 crore approved by the HPCL Board and is planned to be completed within six months from the date of signing.
Each of the 29 schools will receive four smart classrooms equipped with 86-inch interactive flat panels, pre-loaded licensed software, curated open educational resources, and audio-visual equipment including speakers and webcams. Additionally, each school will have a fully networked computer laboratory with desktops and UPS backup, structured LAN, multi-function printer, furniture, air-conditioning, electrical refurbishment, and safety systems. The project includes provision of 10 tablets pre-loaded with coaching material for competitive examinations in each school, along with internet connectivity including wiring, installation, and a one-year subscription.
The schools covered under the project are located in Alwar, Banswara, Baran, Dungarpur, Jaipur, Karauli, Pratapgarh, Sawai Madhopur, Sirohi, Tonk, and Udaipur districts. The initiative will benefit more than 10,000 Scheduled Tribe students every year with equal representation of girls. At full sanctioned capacity, the schools can accommodate up to 13,920 students from Classes VI to XII, most of whom are first-generation digital learners.
The project aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, which mandates integration of technology in teaching-learning, digital literacy for all, and computational thinking and coding from the middle stage, with targeted support to socio-economically disadvantaged groups including tribal children. It also conforms to the common theme of "Innovative Livelihood Enhancement" prescribed by the Department of Public Enterprises for CSR activities of CPSEs during 2026–27 and 2027–28.
The implementation structure involves NSTFDC responsible for implementation and procurement, NESTS for academic validation and prevention of duplication, and the State EMRS Society and school Principals for site readiness and day-to-day use. The MoU was signed in the presence of senior officials including Smt. Ranjana Chopra, Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and Shri K.S. Shetty, Director (HR) of HPCL.