Ministry of Tribal Affairs
President Droupadi Murmu urges students to pursue excellence, remain connected with their roots and contribute to the development of their communities
प्रविष्टि तिथि: 12 NOV 2026 5:31PM by PIB Delhi
The Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, interacted with meritorious students and alumni of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre (RBCC), Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, on 12 November 2026. The programme was organised by the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, as part of Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada 2026, commemorating the 151st birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
The interaction provided an opportunity for students from different parts of the country to share their academic achievements, educational journeys, experiences and aspirations with the Hon’ble President. The programme also highlighted the role of EMRS in providing quality education and enabling tribal students to pursue higher education and professional careers.
Referring to the significance of Eklavya, the Hon’ble President encouraged students to understand the values associated with his life and draw inspiration from them. She observed that EMRS are providing tribal students with opportunities to develop their abilities and talents. She also noted that the equal representation of boys and girls in EMRS reflects progress towards inclusive development.
The Hon’ble President particularly emphasised the importance of remaining connected with one’s roots, identity and cultural heritage. She encouraged them to take pride in their tribal heritage and maintain a strong connection with their villages and communities.
The Hon’ble President further advised students that, after acquiring higher education and establishing themselves as doctors, engineers, administrators and professionals in different fields, they should contribute to the welfare and development of their villages and communities. She stressed that their education would have greater significance when its benefits reach the people and regions from where they come.
Shri Jual Oram, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, delivered the welcome address. Addressing the gathering, Union Minister encouraged students to aim high and pursue their aspirations with dedication, discipline, hard work and self-confidence.
A total of 146 meritorious students and alumni from EMRS across the country participated in the programme. The participants included Class X and XII toppers and students who had secured admission to premier institutions such as IITs, NITs, National Law Universities (NLUs), NIFT and government medical colleges.
On the occasion, NESTS showcased a five-minute short film featuring the success stories of EMRS students and their journeys from their schools to the realisation of their dreams. Students also shared their educational journeys and experiences with the gathering, highlighting the role of EMRS in providing a supportive learning environment, academic opportunities, exposure and facilities that have contributed to their personal and academic development.
The programme also recognised the contributions of officials and institutions associated with the implementation of the EMRS initiative. The Hon’ble President felicitated the Secretaries/Principal Secretaries of the Tribal Welfare Departments of Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha; five District Magistrates; and Principals of five best-performing EMRS. Awards were also conferred upon best-performing tribal startups in recognition of their contributions to entrepreneurship and innovation.
The interaction highlighted the importance of providing quality education, equal opportunities and appropriate institutional support to tribal students. It also reinforced the role of EMRS in nurturing academic excellence, confidence, leadership and professional aspirations among tribal youth, while encouraging them to preserve their cultural identity and contribute to the development of their communities.
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