Nearly 600 tribal students from EMRS schools across 12 States have cleared IIT-JEE and NEET 2024, marking a significant achievement in tribal education, as noted by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
Why this is important
- This is the first time such performance data has been compiled for EMRS students.
- The success shows the impact of targeted support and coaching for tribal students.
About EMRS (Eklavya Model Residential Schools)
- A flagship scheme under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
- Aimed at providing quality education to tribal children, especially those from Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
- Run centrally through the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS).
Highlights of the 2024 Results
- 596 students qualified for top entrance exams:
- 218 cleared JEE Mains (25 likely to get into NITs).
- 34 cracked JEE Advanced (18 likely to enter IITs).
- 344 qualified NEET (3 may secure AIIMS admission).
Ministry’s New Outreach Step
- The Tribal Affairs Ministry will handhold these students in applying for government scholarships.
- Earlier, students applied independently, but now the Ministry will track and support them directly.
EKLAVYA MODEL RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS (EMRS)
Objective:
- EMRS are aimed at providing quality education to tribal children (ST category) in remote and tribal areas, at par with the standards of the best residential schools.
Target Group:
- The schools mainly cater to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, and at least 50% of seats are reserved for girls to promote gender equity.
Fully Funded by Government:
- These schools are fully funded by the Government of India, and managed through the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
Free Facilities for Students:
- EMRS provide free education, lodging, food, uniforms, books, and other learning materials. The schools are designed to accommodate 480 students from Class VI to XII.
Conclusion:
This success highlights the growing potential of tribal youth when given access to quality education, coaching, and post-exam support.
