Consider the following statements regarding Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS):

1. They were established as a joint initiative between the Central and State Governments, with funding shared equally between them.

2. Under the EMRS scheme, a school is set up in every block with more than 50% Scheduled Tribe (ST) population.

3. EMR Schools follow the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct answer is option 2.

In News

• The centralisation of administration for Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) has faced delays, with recruitment and funding issues slowing down the process. Despite the government’s push for rapid expansion, the implementation remains inconsistent across states.

 Key Points

• The EMRS scheme is fully funded by the Central Government under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
• It is not a joint initiative with State Governments, nor is funding shared equally. Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect.
• The scheme mandates one EMRS in every block where the tribal population is more than 50% and at least 20,000 tribal persons reside (as per the 2011 Census).
• This ensures equitable access to residential schooling for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students. Hence, Statement 2 is correct.
• EMR Schools follow the CBSE curriculum, integrating smartboards, online tutoring, and skill development programs. Hence, Statement 3 is correct.

Additional Information

• The EMRS scheme was launched in 1997-98 to provide quality education to ST students.
• A sub-quota of 5% has been reserved for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) to ensure their inclusion.
• Funding Details:
  • ₹37.8 crore construction grant for plain areas.
  • ₹48 crore grant for Northeast, Hilly, and Left-Wing Extremism-affected areas.
  • ₹1.09 lakh recurring grant per student per annum.