Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs), the Government of India's education initiatives for tribal communities, were introduced in which year?

The correct answer is 1997-98.

Key Points

• Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) were introduced by the Government of India in the year 1997-98 to provide quality education to tribal students.
• The scheme was launched under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to ensure access to education for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in remote areas.
• EMRSs aim to provide holistic education from Class VI to XII, with an emphasis on both academic and extracurricular activities.
• Each school is equipped to accommodate 480 students, providing free education, boarding, and lodging facilities to the students.
• The government has set a target of establishing one EMRS in every block with a significant tribal population (at least 50% ST population and 20,000 tribal people).

Additional Information

• Objective of EMRSs:
  • To promote the educational advancement of Scheduled Tribe (ST) children by providing quality education in a residential setup.
  • To enable students to access opportunities in higher education and employment.
• Salient Features of EMRSs:
  • Schools are set up with modern infrastructure, including hostels, libraries, and sports facilities.
  • Focus on preserving tribal culture and heritage alongside mainstream education.
  • Students are provided free uniforms, textbooks, and stationery.
• Expansion Goals:
  • By 2025, the government aims to establish 740 EMRSs across the country to cater to tribal students.
  • This will ensure a greater reach and reduce educational inequalities for tribal communities.
• Associated Schemes:
  • EMRSs are a part of the government's larger initiative to support tribal development, alongside schemes like the Tribal Sub-Plan and Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana.
  • Additional scholarships and support programs are also provided to students to promote higher education.