Banswara, Rajasthan – July 31, 2025: In a significant update shared in the Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs confirmed that 10 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) have been established in the tribal-majority region of Banswara, Rajasthan. These schools are bringing quality education to one of India’s most underserved communities.
Fulfilling the EMRS Twin Criteria
Banswara, often referred to as the “City of Hundred Islands,” is home to a large Scheduled Tribe (ST) population. The Union Government’s EMRS initiative focuses on regions with:
- At least 20,000 ST population in a block
- More than 50% ST population in the block
Remarkably, all 13 blocks in the Banswara Parliamentary Constituency meet these twin criteria.
EMRS Presence in Banswara – A Block-wise Breakdown
Out of these 13 blocks, 10 already host functioning EMRSs. These institutions aim to provide holistic education from Class VI to XII, integrated with value-based learning and cultural awareness.
| Block | EMRS Status |
|---|---|
| Anandpuri | EMRS Padola, EMRS Sundrav |
| Bagidora | EMRS Bagidora |
| Banswara | EMRS Abapura (Gamda) |
| Garhi | EMRS Garhi Parkhela |
| Kushalgarh | EMRS Kushalgarh |
| Dungarpur | EMRS Dungarpur |
| Sabla | EMRS Parda Chundawat |
| Sagbara | EMRS Sagwara |
| Simalwara | EMRS Simalwara |
| Sajjangarh, Chhoti Sarvan, Ghatol, Bichhiwara | No EMRS Yet |
Focus on Quality, Not Quantity
Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Shri Durgadas Uikey, emphasized that no new EMRSs are under consideration for now. The current focus is on operationalizing and strengthening the 728 EMRSs already approved nationwide under the 2018-19 Cabinet decision and Article 275(1) of the Constitution.
According to the Press Information Bureau, this ensures quality infrastructure, trained faculty, and sufficient resources for existing schools, including those in Banswara.
Why EMRSs Matter for Tribal Students
EMRSs provide free residential schooling, nutritious meals, digital classrooms, and sports facilities. These schools also respect tribal culture and heritage, making education more relatable and inclusive.
They are helping bridge the education gap in rural tribal areas, reduce dropout rates, and enhance employability among ST youth.
Challenges Remain
While 10 blocks are served, 3 still await EMRS institutions—Sajjangarh, Chhoti Sarvan, and Ghatol. These areas also fulfill the eligibility criteria but remain unserved due to policy constraints.
Local leaders, including MP Shri Rajkumar Roat, have raised this concern in Parliament, urging faster action to bring educational equality across all tribal blocks.
Looking Ahead: Inclusive Growth Through Education
The Banswara model showcases the power of targeted government policy. EMRSs are not just schools—they are centers of transformation. With strong community support and continued government backing, they hold the potential to unlock futures for thousands of tribal children.
As India moves toward its Viksit Bharat 2047 goal, inclusive education in tribal belts like Banswara will remain key to equitable growth.
Conclusion
Banswara’s 10 Eklavya Model Residential Schools are beacons of hope. While there’s still work to be done, the progress is real and inspiring. With consistent focus and funding, every tribal child in Banswara can dream bigger and aim higher.
