President Murmu Approves Grant for Eklavya School Toppers

Fast Summary

• Initiative: President Droupadi Murmu has authorized a discretionary fund for toppers from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), administered by the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS).
• Amount and Beneficiaries: ₹62.40 lakh disbursed to 823 meritorious students across EMRSs as one-time financial assistance of ₹7,500 each.
• Target Group: Top two students in Science, Humanities, and Commerce streams from schools with Class XII board examinees for the academic year ending in 2025.
• Tie-breaker Mechanism: Preferential treatment given to girl students; further tie-breakers consider Class XI performance.
• Number of schools/Students enrolled: NESTS administers over 470 emrss catering to more than 1.38 lakh students, with at least 85% from Scheduled Tribe communities.
• Statement by Ministry of Tribal Affairs: the initiative aims to promote equitable access to quality education and empower tribal youth toward higher studies and professional aspirations.
• Background Details on EMRS Scheme:

– Initially launched in 1997-98.
– Major reforms implemented during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first term include sanctioning over 600 new schools and setting NESTS as their central administrator.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The discretionary fund sanctioned by President Murmu represents a significant step toward incentivizing academic achievement among tribal students enrolled in Eklavya Model Residential Schools.By offering financial rewards tied directly to merit, this initiative fosters both educational excellence and motivation within economically disadvantaged communities largely comprising Scheduled Tribes.

Implementing gender-preferential tie-breaking mechanisms highlights an effort towards inclusivity while recognizing societal disparities faced by tribal girls pursuing education. This policy could serve as a blueprint for similar schemes aimed at vulnerable sections of society.

The government’s focus on expanding and reforming the EMRS program further underscores its commitment to bridging educational gaps for marginalized groups while empowering them socially thru affordable access to quality education. As India continues progressing on various fronts, such targeted initiatives strengthen foundational systems supporting equitable growth.

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