SRINAGAR: Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the functioning and progress of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) across Jammu and Kashmir, with a comprehensive focus on infrastructure development, academic performance, staffing, and student welfare.
The meeting was attended by the Secretary, Tribal Affairs, Principals of various EMRS institutions, and other senior officers of the department.
Highlighting the transformative role of EMRSs, Rana reiterated that these institutions are instrumental in empowering tribal youth by providing quality and inclusive education.
He underscored the importance of robust infrastructure, adequate human resources, and essential facilities to ensure holistic development and equal opportunities for tribal students.
During the meeting, the Minister conducted a detailed review of the status of infrastructure works, assessing the progress made under the approved Detailed Project Reports (DPRs).
He stressed the need for efficient utilisation of sanctioned funds and emphasized the timely completion of all ongoing construction projects. Rana directed officials to expedite pending land transfers for EMRS projects to prevent any further delays in execution.
Reviewing academic operations, Rana urged the concerned authorities to focus on enhancing the quality of classroom teaching, strengthening co-curricular engagement and improving the overall learning environment.
He also evaluated student enrollment trends to ensure that schools are operating at optimal capacity and effectively reaching the intended beneficiary groups.
Assessing staffing adequacy, both academic and non-academic, Rana emphasized that schools must be equipped with the necessary human resources to ensure smooth and effective functioning. He called for immediate steps to address any gaps that could hinder the delivery of quality education and comprehensive student support.
The Minister also reviewed the provision of facilities for residential students, directing that all services be provided in full accordance with the allocations under recurring grants.
He stressed that the hostel environment must be safe, comfortable, and conducive to learning, in line with prescribed quality standards.
The Minister reaffirmed the Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to strengthening EMRS institutions as centres of excellence for tribal education in J&K, and called for coordinated and time-bound efforts from all stakeholders to achieve this vision.
