Coal India and NSTFDC Sign MoU to Empower Tribal Students via Eklavya Schools

In a landmark move to promote inclusive education and holistic development for India’s tribal youth, Coal India Limited (CIL) and the National Scheduled Tribe Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on September 9, 2025. This collaboration focuses on enhancing support for students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) through targeted interventions in digital education, health, and career guidance.

Project Overview

The initiative, titled “Empowering Tribal Students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools through Digital Access, Career Mentorship, Menstrual Hygiene, and Teacher Capacity Building,” aims to use education and technology as tools for social transformation in tribal regions. The project will be rolled out in EMRS institutions across the country, particularly in coal-bearing and tribal-dominated districts.

Key Components of the Project

1. Digital Access and Learning Infrastructure

CIL will provide desktops, UPS systems, and tablets to students, ensuring greater access to online learning resources and digital literacy.

2. Career Mentorship

Structured mentorship programs will help students navigate career pathways through guidance sessions, exposure visits, and skill mapping.

3. Menstrual Hygiene Management

To promote health and dignity among girl students, sanitary napkin vending machines and incinerators will be installed in schools.

4. Teacher Capacity Building

Training modules and workshops will be conducted to enhance the pedagogical and digital teaching skills of EMRS faculty.

Strategic Importance

This MoU represents a model for whole-of-government and public sector collaboration, aligning with national goals of equity, education, and inclusive development. It integrates the objectives of multiple ministries—Coal, Tribal Affairs, and Education—to deliver long-term impact.

The focus on digital infrastructure, gender-sensitive health facilities, and career readiness addresses both educational and socio-economic barriers faced by tribal youth, ensuring they are not left behind in India’s developmental journey.

Key Takeaways for Exam

• MoU Signed Between: Coal India Limited and NSTFDC
• Target Group: Tribal students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools
• Key Focus Areas: Digital access, mentorship, menstrual hygiene, teacher training
• Supporting Ministries: Ministry of Coal, Ministry of Tribal Affairs