President of India Droupadi Murmu interacted with 146 meritorious students and alumni of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on November 12, 2026. The program was organized by the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), Ministry of Tribal Affairs, as part of Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada 2026 commemorating the 151st birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
Participants included Class X and XII toppers and students who secured admission to premier institutions including IITs, NITs, National Law Universities, NIFT, and government medical colleges. President Murmu emphasized the importance of students remaining connected with their roots, cultural heritage, and tribal identity while pursuing excellence in education. She urged them to contribute to the development of their villages and communities after establishing themselves as professionals.
Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram delivered the welcome address, encouraging students to pursue their aspirations with dedication, discipline, hard work, and self-confidence. The event featured a five-minute short film showcasing EMRS student success stories and their educational journeys.
The program recognized contributions to the EMRS initiative through felicitations of Secretaries/Principal Secretaries of Tribal Welfare Departments from Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha; five District Magistrates; and Principals of five best-performing EMRS. Awards were also conferred upon best-performing tribal startups for their contributions to entrepreneurship and innovation.
The interaction highlighted EMRS's role in providing quality education, equal opportunities, and institutional support to tribal students, with equal representation of boys and girls reflecting progress toward inclusive development.