About EMRS

• The scheme of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) was introduced in 1997-98 with an objective to provide quality middle and high-level education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in remote areas.
• The schools are aimed to enable ST students to access the best opportunities in education and to bring them at par with the general population. The schools focus not only on academic education but on the all-round development of the students. 
• Each school has a capacity of 480 students, catering to students from Class VI to XII. Non-ST students can be admitted in EMRSs up to 10% of the total seats.
• The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, establishes, endows, maintains, controls and manages these schools.
• The government aims to establish EMRS in every block with more than 50% ST population and at least 20,000 tribal persons.
• EMRS are set up in States/UTs with grants under Article 275(1) of the Constitution of India. 
  • Article 275(1) guarantees grants-in-aid from the Consolidated Fund of India each year for promoting the welfare of Scheduled Tribes. Infrastructure development schemes like protected drinking water, road connectivity, electricity and housing are provided under this scheme.
• The scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.