Tripura’s commitment to educational equity received a major boost this week. The state will launch six new Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) in August 2025, bringing the total number of sanctioned Eklavya schools in Tripura to 21.
The announcement followed a strategic meeting between Tripura’s Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma and officials from the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs in New Delhi. These new schools aim to transform the educational landscape for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in the state’s remote and underdeveloped areas.
Expanding Educational Access for Tribal Students
Tripura has already established a solid foundation with 15 sanctioned EMRS campuses. The addition of six more schools strengthens this effort to close the education gap for tribal communities.
Unlike regular schools, Eklavya schools in Tripura offer a fully residential and free academic environment. Students from Class VI to XII will benefit from CBSE-affiliated instruction, nutritious meals, digital tools, and structured extracurricular programs.
These schools are funded entirely by the Government of India’s EMRS Scheme, which prioritizes equity in education.
“These schools don’t just educate—they empower. We’re building foundations for future leaders,” said Minister Debbarma.
Where Will the New EMRS Be Located?
Although the government hasn’t finalized all locations, most of the new campuses will be established in tribal-majority districts like Dhalai, Gomati, Sepahijala, and North Tripura. By situating schools in these underserved areas, the initiative ensures maximum accessibility and community impact.
Each campus will accommodate up to 560 students, with separate hostels for boys and girls, and facilities for sports, labs, libraries, and leadership training.
Inside an Eklavya School: Features That Set Them Apart
Eklavya schools go far beyond traditional education models. These institutions aim to equip tribal students with real-world skills and confidence, in addition to academic success. Each school offers:
- Smart classrooms and science labs
- Libraries and cultural activity halls
- Nutrition programs and health check-ups
- Daily sports and physical training
- Guidance counseling and exam preparation
Because these schools are fully residential, students receive 24/7 support and supervision, helping them focus entirely on their learning and development.
Teachers, Staff, and Infrastructure Ready for Launch
The state’s Tribal Welfare Department has accelerated the recruitment of teachers and support staff. Officials confirmed that construction is nearly complete for all six new schools. By early August, they will begin orientation programs and admissions.
Instead of waiting for another academic year, the department chose to launch the schools mid-year, ensuring no tribal child misses the opportunity to enroll.
Why Eklavya Schools Matter for Tripura
Tripura’s tribal communities often face limited access to modern education due to geography, poverty, and infrastructure gaps. Eklavya schools solve this problem by placing high-quality education directly in their neighborhoods.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 also places EMRS at the core of India’s tribal education reforms, and Tripura is emerging as a national leader in implementation.
“Eklavya schools in Tripura are no longer a promise—they are becoming a powerful reality,” said a senior education official.
Community Support and Local Outreach
The success of these schools depends heavily on community awareness and engagement. The Tribal Welfare Department will partner with village councils, NGOs, and educators to spread information about enrollment and eligibility.
Campaigns will include local meetings, school visits, and interactive workshops to help parents understand the long-term value of EMRS for their children.
By involving the community early, the department ensures strong student attendance and retention, particularly among girls.
What’s Next for EMRS in Tripura?
After the six new schools begin operations, the government will conduct a statewide assessment to identify more tribal areas in need of similar facilities. If demand rises, more EMRS proposals could follow in the 2025–26 budget cycle.
Tripura has already shown that with political will and focused planning, even small states can lead in education reform.
Education as the Path to Equality
With six new Eklavya schools in Tripura launching soon, the state is boldly stepping into a future where tribal students no longer lag behind. These institutions offer much more than textbooks—they offer dreams, dignity, and direction.
Tripura’s commitment to building an equal society starts with education, and EMRS is leading the way.
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