The National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding worth ₹16.01 crore to establish integrated Computer Lab-cum-Smart Classroom facilities in 29 functional Eklavya Model Residential Schools across 11 districts of Rajasthan. The project, approved by the HPCL Board, is scheduled for completion within six months from the signing date and will benefit more than 10,000 Scheduled Tribe students annually with equal representation of girls.
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 are located across 11 districts: Alwar, Banswara, Baran, Dungarpur, Jaipur, Karauli, Pratapgarh, Sawai Madhopur, Sirohi, Tonk, and Udaipur. At full sanctioned capacity, these schools can accommodate up to 13,920 students from Classes VI to XII, most of whom are first-generation digital learners. The initiative 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.
The project implementation will leverage the institutional ecosystem of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, with 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 project 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.