Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Shri Durgadas Uikey provided a status update on Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) in response to a Lok Sabha question on July 30, 2026. The data shows that 728 EMRSs have been approved across the country, with 508 currently functional. Specifically in Bihar, 3 schools have been approved with 2 operational. The government inaugurated 43 new EMRSs during the 2025-26 period as part of network expansion efforts.
Significant infrastructure and quality enhancements have been implemented in EMRSs, including modern classrooms with teaching aids, bridge courses, remedial classes, science and computer laboratories, libraries with diverse resources, playgrounds with sports equipment, and facilities for extracurricular activities. Digital education infrastructure includes smart classrooms and computer labs with internet access. Vocational training programs cover apparel, automotive, AR/VR, AI, beauty & wellness, agriculture, electronics, and retail to enhance student employability.
To address staffing shortages, 9,111 teaching and non-teaching staff have been recruited, with examinations conducted for an additional 7,267 positions. State Governments have been advised to depute staff on deputation and contract basis to prevent disruption of academic activities due to vacancies.
Infrastructure gap measures include standardized designs for modern academic facilities, hostels, staff quarters, and sports infrastructure; additional grants for upgrading old schools; and regular third-party monitoring inspections. The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) continuously follows up with State Governments and execution agencies to fast-track construction and make schools operational. States have been advised to use alternative buildings where feasible to make EMRSs functional.
The EMRS expansion supports government objectives of inclusive education and tribal community empowerment by providing quality residential education to Scheduled Tribe students in remote areas, reducing educational disparities through free education with boarding and lodging facilities. The program focuses on holistic development through academic excellence, sports, skill development, and extracurricular activities, enhancing educational attainment, employability, and leadership potential among tribal youth.