PM Modi virtually inaugurated four Eklavya Model Residential Schools in Tripura on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas 2026, expanding quality residential education for tribal students. Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha highlighted government initiatives to strengthen educational opportunities and tribal development.
Tripura marked a significant milestone in tribal education on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas 2026 as Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated four Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) at Ompi, Manu, Hejamara and Manikpur. The occasion also witnessed the commencement of academic activities at two additional EMRS institutions in Mandai and Amarpur, further strengthening educational infrastructure for tribal students across the state.
Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha expressed happiness over the development, describing the initiative as another important step towards expanding access to quality education and creating greater opportunities for students belonging to tribal communities. Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram was also present during the programme.
In a message, Dr Manik Saha said the establishment of these residential educational institutions would create a supportive and conducive learning environment for tribal students. He expressed confidence that the institutions would help young people acquire knowledge, develop skills and build self-confidence to achieve their aspirations.
The West Tripura district-level celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas was organised at Dongdari Hathai in Saratchoudhury ADC Village under Hejamara Block, where Prime Minister Modi virtually inaugurated the Eklavya Model Residential School. The programme was organised under the initiative of the West Tripura District Office of the Department of Tribal Welfare.
Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee and Minister of State for Industries and Commerce Brishaketu Debbarma attended the programme as chief guests. Other dignitaries included Acting Sabhadhipati of West Tripura Zilla Parishad Biswajit Shil, MDC Rabindra Debbarma, Hejamara BAC Vice-Chairman Nihar Ranjan Debbarma, West Tripura District Magistrate and Collector Dr Bishal Kumar, and Mohanpur Sub-Divisional Magistrate Shantanu Bikash Das. The programme was presided over by Hejamara BAC Chairman Sunil Debbarma.
Addressing the gathering, Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, recalling his extraordinary sacrifice and struggle to protect the identity, culture, traditions and heritage of tribal communities. He described Birsa Munda as an enduring symbol of tribal pride whose ideals continue to inspire younger generations.
Bhattacharjee emphasised that education remains one of the most important foundations for the overall development of tribal communities. He said the country’s progress would remain incomplete without ensuring equal educational opportunities for tribal boys and girls.
He also highlighted skill development initiatives undertaken through the state’s Tribal Research Institute and mentioned the traditional Risa craft of tribal women, which has gained opportunities for wider recognition through its Geographical Indication (GI) tag. He called for collective efforts to achieve the vision of ‘Ek Shreshtha Tripura’.
Minister Brishaketu Debbarma described the Dongdari Hathai EMRS as an important addition to the region’s educational infrastructure. He said the institution would provide students with quality education, modern facilities and opportunities to develop their abilities. He encouraged students from neighbouring areas to make proper use of the facilities and pursue their academic ambitions.
Meanwhile, at Manikpur in Longtarai Valley subdivision of Dhalai district, another important programme marked the inauguration of a 480-seat Eklavya Model Residential School. Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha attended the occasion and paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his 151st birth anniversary.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister highlighted the contribution of tribal communities to India’s freedom struggle, social reform, agriculture, education, environmental protection and nation-building. He said the state government was continuously working to preserve tribal history, culture, heritage and socio-economic identity while ensuring development reaches remote and disadvantaged areas.
Dr Saha stated that 21 Eklavya Model Residential Schools had been sanctioned for Tripura, of which 14 were already operational. With the addition of four newly inaugurated institutions, residential educational opportunities would expand further. He also expressed hope that 15 more EMRS institutions could be sanctioned for the state, subject to the prescribed eligibility conditions.
Highlighting other tribal welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister referred to the PM-JANMAN scheme and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. He also discussed the Mukhyamantri Janajati Unnayan Mission, launched on November 25, 2023, under which 50 boarding houses equipped with solar power, safe drinking water and modern facilities have been established. Additionally, coaching support is provided annually to 40 meritorious tribal students preparing for the UPSC examinations.
He further mentioned the Mukhyamantri Rubber Mission, launched on August 14, 2021, which has contributed to the expansion of rubber plantations across nearly 30,000 hectares over the past five years.
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The Chief Minister also highlighted livelihood initiatives for tribal women, including the distribution of yarn to approximately 30,000 women in 2025, with plans to extend the initiative to another 45,000 women. Modern sports facilities and playgrounds have also been developed to encourage sporting talent among tribal youth.
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As part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Divas celebrations, administrative and health camps were organised at Dongdari Hathai. The Health Department provided free medical check-ups and distributed medicines, while self-help groups showcased traditional tribal food products. Cultural performances by prominent tribal artists added to the celebrations.
The establishment and expansion of EMRS institutions are expected to create long-term educational opportunities for tribal students, particularly those living in remote areas, supporting their academic growth and broader socio-economic development.
