Partnership to Boost Digital Education and Infrastructure in 42 Eklavya Model Residential Schools
NEW DELHI (India CSR): In a transformative move to uplift tribal education, Northern Coalfields Ltd. (NCL) has partnered with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) to enhance infrastructure and capacity building in 42 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Announced on September 15, 2025, this Rs 5 crore Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aims to equip tribal students with digital tools and improve health and hygiene facilities, fostering holistic development. With over 26,000 students set to benefit, this collaboration marks a significant step toward empowering India’s tribal youth.
A Strategic Collaboration for Tribal Empowerment
The partnership between NCL and MoTA reflects a shared commitment to bridging educational disparities for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students. Eklavya Model Residential Schools, established by MoTA, provide quality education, nutrition, and holistic development opportunities to ST children, enabling them to pursue higher education and secure employment in diverse sectors. With 479 EMRS currently operational nationwide, the ministry has been actively seeking CSR partnerships to amplify its efforts, particularly under the leadership of Shri Jual Oram, Hon’ble Minister of Tribal Affairs, and in alignment with the vision of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh.
NCL’s Rs 5 crore CSR contribution will fund critical upgrades in 42 EMRS, focusing on digital literacy and infrastructure development. The project, implemented by the National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC), a Section 8 company under MoTA, is designed to deliver measurable outcomes in a time-bound manner. This initiative underscores the power of public-private partnerships in driving social change.
Revolutionizing Digital Education for Tribal Youth
A cornerstone of this initiative is the promotion of digital literacy, a vital skill for 21st-century success. NCL’s funding will provide 950 computers, 950 UPS units, and 90 tablets to establish state-of-the-art computer labs in the 42 EMRS. These resources will enable students to access cutting-edge technology, engage in online learning, and participate in innovative programs such as Digital Tutoring for IIT-JEE and NEET, as well as the Digital Transformation Program launched by MoTA.
“Equipping tribal students with digital tools is not just about access; it’s about empowering them to compete on a global stage,” said a senior MoTA official. By fostering digital literacy, the initiative aims to prepare students for careers in technology-driven fields, ensuring they are not left behind in an increasingly digital world.
Prioritizing Health and Hygiene for Girl Students
In addition to digital education, the initiative addresses the critical issue of menstrual health and hygiene for female students. NCL’s CSR funds will provide 430 sanitary pad vending machines and 430 sanitary pad incinerators across the 42 schools. This move is expected to benefit over 13,500 girl students by promoting menstrual hygiene, reducing absenteeism, and improving academic performance.
“Access to proper menstrual hygiene facilities can transform the educational experience for girls,” said an NSTFDC representative. “By addressing this basic need, we’re helping ensure that female students can focus on their studies without barriers.” This focus on health and hygiene aligns with broader efforts to improve retention rates and academic outcomes for tribal girls.
Benefiting Over 26,000 Tribal Students
The impact of this CSR initiative will be far-reaching, directly benefiting more than 26,000 tribal students across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. By combining digital education with improved health infrastructure, the project aims to create a nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The initiative also supports MoTA’s broader mission of empowering tribal youth to access higher education and professional opportunities.
Teachers and school administrators are equally enthusiastic about the project. “The addition of computers and tablets will open new avenues for learning,” said a principal at an EMRS in Madhya Pradesh. “Our students are eager to explore digital platforms, and this support will make that possible.”
A Model for CSR-Driven Development
This collaboration sets a precedent for how CSR funds can be leveraged to support government initiatives for marginalized communities. Under the leadership of Shri Jual Oram, MoTA has been actively engaging with corporate partners to channel CSR investments into high-impact projects. The NCL-MoTA partnership is a shining example of this strategy, aligning with the government’s vision of inclusive growth and digital inclusion.
As India celebrates Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh, initiatives like this highlight the importance of targeted interventions in uplifting tribal communities. The timely implementation by NSTFDC ensures that the benefits reach students promptly, maximizing the initiative’s impact.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Tribal Education
The NCL-MoTA partnership is a significant milestone in the journey toward equitable education for tribal students. By equipping EMRS with modern technology and essential infrastructure, the initiative paves the way for a brighter future for thousands of young learners. As the project rolls out, it is expected to serve as a model for other corporations to invest in tribal development, amplifying the impact of CSR across India.
With the festive season approaching, the timing of this announcement adds to its significance, symbolizing hope and opportunity for tribal youth. As these schools transform into hubs of digital learning and holistic development, the legacy of this initiative will resonate for years to come.
(India CSR)
