The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bihar Mahadalit Vikas Mission, SC & ST Welfare Dept., Government of Bihar, for strengthening the implementation of the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) Scheme and advancing the objective of providing quality education to tribal students in the State.

NESTS is mandated to establish and manage a robust network of Eklavya Model Residential Schools across the country to provide quality education, holistic development, and enhanced learning opportunities to Scheduled Tribe students at par with the best educational institutions. The MoU marks a significant step towards further strengthening the EMRS ecosystem in Bihar through enhanced institutional coordination and improved governance mechanisms.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Smt. Ranjana Chopra, Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs; Dr. Pratima, Commissioner, NESTS; and Smt. Priyanka Rani, Director, SC & ST Welfare Department, Government of Bihar.

The agreement provides a framework for coordinated action between NESTS and the State Government for the planning, establishment, operation, and monitoring of EMRSs in Bihar. It aims to ensure timely operationalisation of sanctioned schools, completion of infrastructure works, strengthening of academic and administrative systems, and delivery of quality residential education to tribal students.

As per the provisions of the MoU, financial assistance under the EMRS Scheme shall be provided at the rate of ₹1.47 lakh per student, placing Bihar at par with other States that have entered into similar agreements with NESTS. The State Government shall undertake necessary measures for the expeditious completion of school infrastructure and operationalisation of EMRSs, while recruitment of teaching and non-teaching personnel shall be undertaken through a centralized process to ensure uniform standards of quality and transparency.

The MoU also envisages implementation of a common academic framework based on NCERT curriculum and aligned with CBSE norms and standards, thereby ensuring access to high-quality education, modern pedagogical practices, and holistic development opportunities for tribal students. The collaboration is expected to contribute significantly towards improving educational outcomes, nurturing talent, and empowering tribal youth through quality residential schooling.

The signing of the MoU reaffirms the shared commitment of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, NESTS, and the Government of Bihar towards providing equitable access to quality education and holistic development for Scheduled Tribe students. Aligned with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister for an inclusive and empowered Viksit Bharat, the initiative will strengthen educational opportunities and enable tribal youth to contribute meaningfully to India’s development journey.

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