The Mizoram government has initiated plans to establish six new Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), taking the total number of such institutions in the state to 17. The initiative aims to provide enhanced academic and residential facilities to tribal students from Classes 6 to 12, particularly in underserved regions.
Currently, 11 EMRS institutions are functioning across various districts in Mizoram. These schools, fully funded by the central government under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, offer free education, boarding, and lodging to tribal students. Each school is designed to accommodate up to 480 students and is equipped with modern facilities to promote holistic learning.
The decision to expand the EMRS network was taken following a high-level review meeting of the EMRS governing council earlier this week, chaired by Chief Minister Lalduhoma. During the meeting, the performance of existing schools was evaluated, and future strategies for infrastructure, faculty recruitment, and community participation were discussed.
Speaking after the meeting, state officials emphasized the dual goals of the EMRS programme—providing quality education and generating employment for local people. “We want to ensure that no tribal student is left behind due to geographic or economic barriers. At the same time, these schools can become hubs for local economic activity and job creation,” an official said.
Of the six proposed new schools, detailed project reports (DPRs) for four have already been submitted to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Work on the remaining DPRs is in progress, and the state hopes to secure timely approval to begin construction at the earliest.
