In a landmark initiative, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Coal India Limited (CIL) have joined hands to strengthen digital education and infrastructure in 76 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today in New Delhi between CIL and the National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC), a Section 8 company under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The event took place in the presence of Jual Oram, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, and G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Coal & Mines.
Currently, 479 EMRS are functional nationwide, providing quality education, nutrition, healthcare, and holistic development opportunities for Scheduled Tribe (ST) children. This collaboration will significantly boost access to digital learning, mentorship, and essential facilities for over 30,000 tribal students.
Key Provisions Under the Project
- 1200 computers & UPS units to establish computer labs
- 110 tablets for digital learning support
- 420 sanitary pad vending machines & 420 incinerators to promote menstrual health & hygiene
- Career counselling and mentorship for over 6,200 Class 10 & 12 students
CIL has sanctioned ₹10 crore under its CSR initiative, with NSTFDC responsible for project implementation in a time-bound manner.
Jual Oram welcomed the initiative and appreciated Coal India’s support, expressing confidence that more corporates will step forward with CSR contributions to strengthen tribal education.
G. Kishan Reddy emphasized that the project aligns with CIL’s CSR focus areas of education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, livelihood promotion, and rural development, thereby multiplying its social impact.
Objectives of the Project
- Bridging the digital divide: Strengthening digital learning and STEM opportunities
- Promoting menstrual health & hygiene: Improving retention and performance of girl students
- Career guidance & mentorship: Equipping tribal students with skills and exposure at par with urban peers
- This initiative is expected to be a transformational step towards inclusive, technology-driven, and holistic education for tribal youth.
