The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) successfully concluded the 2nd EMRS Principals’ Conclave on Effective Management of Schools, held on 16–17 December 2025 at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. The two-day national conclave brought together Principals and Principals-in-Charge of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) from across the country to deliberate on strengthening academic leadership, administrative systems, and institutional governance in residential schools.

The conclave was inaugurated by Shri Jual Oram, Hon’ble Minister for Tribal Affairs, as the Chief Guest, in the presence of Shri Durga Das Uikey, Hon’ble Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, as the Guest of Honour, along with senior officials of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and NESTS.

The inaugural session commenced with the welcome address by the Additional Commissioner, NESTS, who outlined the objectives of the conclave and emphasized the pivotal role of Principals in strengthening academic standards, student welfare, and institutional management in EMRSs.

This was followed by the release of key publications, including the Training Resource Material, 4th EMRS Sports Meet 2025 Report, 6th Udbhav 2025 Report, and the 2nd EMRS Principals’ Conclave Book, showcasing significant milestones, best practices, and achievements across EMRSs in academics, sports, leadership, and governance.

Subsequently, the context-setting address was delivered by the Commissioner, NESTS, who articulated the strategic vision for effective management of EMRSs, alignment with NEP 2020, and the expectations from Principals in driving institutional excellence and holistic development of tribal students.

Day 1 Highlights

Following the inaugural session, the first day of the conclave unfolded as an intensive and engaging exploration of academic reforms, leadership development, and institutional governance. The sessions were thoughtfully designed to address key functional and administrative areas of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs), offering principals valuable insights and practical guidance from experienced experts.

A series of expert-led sessions formed the core of Day 1. Dr. Sanyam Bhardwaj, Controller of Examinations, CBSE, provided an in-depth overview of the “Two Examination System of CBSE,” elucidating its objectives, structure, and implications for assessment reforms. The session on “Mental Health and Well-Being in Residential Schools,” led by Shri Jitender Nagpal, highlighted the critical importance of emotional and psychological support systems for students residing on campus.

Technical and infrastructural aspects were addressed in the session on “Procedure for Maintenance & Repair of Buildings and Taking Over of Buildings from Construction Agencies,” jointly conducted by Shri A. D. P. Keshari, Chief Construction Engineer, NESTS, and Shri Pramod Aggarwal, Senior Technical Consultant, NESTS. The session offered clarity on standard procedures, compliance requirements, and best practices for ensuring quality and sustainability of school infrastructure.

Leadership and school culture were the focus of the session on “Leadership Qualities of Principals: Building Vision, Accountability and School Culture,” delivered by Shri Manoj Kumar Srivastava, Director (Training), CBSE. This session emphasized the pivotal role of principals in shaping institutional ethos, driving accountability, and fostering a positive learning environment. Complementing this, Dr. Sanjiv Kaura, CEO, Teach India Foundation, spoke on “Upliftment of Underprivileged Students,” sharing inspiring perspectives and actionable strategies to enhance educational equity and student empowerment.

The day concluded with a practical and informative session on “APAR – Demonstration of Online Portal,” conducted by Shri G. Arumugam, Consultant, NESTS, which familiarized participants with the digital platform and its effective utilization.

Overall, the sessions enabled principals to actively participate in interactive discussions, exchange field-level experiences, and collaboratively identify practical solutions aimed at strengthening academic processes, leadership capabilities, and governance practices within EMRSs.

Day 2 Highlights

The second day of the conclave focused on strengthening administrative efficiency, academic leadership, student welfare, health awareness, co-curricular integration, and financial governance in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs).

Key sessions included deliberations on HR issues and probation clearance by Shri G. Arumugam (NESTS); establishment of NCC units by Col. Vivek Shukla, NCC; and effective lesson planning by Shri Himanshu Chaurasia and Shri Aditya Dubey (COGRAD, NVS). Quality enhancement in secondary education under the TALASH framework was discussed by Mrs. Pramila Manoharan (UNICEF). Co-curricular development was addressed through sessions on establishing Scouts and Guides units by Shri Amar B. Chettri (Bharat Scouts and Guides), and on Centres of Excellence and the Kaushalya Programme by Shri Nagendra (Ekal Nari Foundation) and Smt. Pinakshi Sonpal (Tata Motors Ltd.).

Administrative and financial capacity building included guidance on NPS and GeM procedures by Shri Harsh Agnihotri (NESTS). Student well-being and awareness were emphasized through sessions on sickle cell disease by Dr. Dinesh Burani (RGCI) and on financial literacy and cyber security by representatives from Kotak Mahindra Foundation.The day concluded with an open discussion session, enabling Principals to share challenges, best practices, and actionable recommendations.

Overall, the conclave enhanced principals’ capacities in academic leadership, governance, financial management, and student welfare, while promoting peer learning and supporting NEP 2020–aligned reforms. The successful conclave reaffirmed NESTS’ commitment to “Tribal Transformation Through Education” and strengthening institutional excellence across EMRSs.

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