STATUS OF EMRSs IN WEST BENGAL

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is implementing the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) scheme to deliver quality education to tribal students while preserving local art and culture. EMRSs are set up in blocks with >50% ST population and at least 20,000 tribal persons (Census 2011). Nationwide, 728 EMRSs have been approved, of which 508 are functional. In West Bengal, 9 EMRSs have been approved and all are functional; none of the blocks in Alipurduar meet the criteria. The autonomous National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) oversees policy and implementation, with State Societies and District Committees handling local administration. District‑wise enrolment for 2025‑26 totals 3,152 students across the nine functional schools.