The National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 15 September 2026 for integrated computer labs-cum-smart classrooms in 29 functional Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) in Rajasthan. The project has a sanctioned budget of ₹16.01 crore and covers 11 districts, with facilities planned for more than 10,000 Scheduled Tribe students every year.
Eklavya Model Residential Schools
Eklavya Model Residential Schools are residential schools for Scheduled Tribe students under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The EMRS system was created to provide school education in tribal-dominated areas, and the schools function as fully residential institutions with academic and hostel facilities.
Digital Infrastructure Components
Each of the 29 schools will receive four smart classrooms with 86-inch interactive flat-panel displays, licensed software, curated Open Educational Resources, and audio-visual equipment. Each school will also get a fully networked computer laboratory with desktops, UPS backup, structured LAN, multi-function printers, furniture, air-conditioning, electrical upgrades, and security systems.
Support for Competitive Examinations
The project includes 10 tablets for each school with pre-loaded coaching material for competitive examinations. Internet connectivity for one year is also part of the package, along with digital learning tools for classroom use.
Important Facts for Exams
- NSTFDC is a public sector organisation under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
- HPCL is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise in the petroleum sector.
- EMRS institutions are meant for Scheduled Tribe students and are run as residential schools.
- Interactive flat-panel displays are commonly used in smart classrooms for digital teaching.
Project Timeline and Administrative Context
The project is planned for completion within six months from the date of signing of the Memorandum of Understanding. The MoU was signed in the presence of Smt. Ranjana Chopra, Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, along with senior officials from NSTFDC and HPCL.
