Coal India Commits ₹10 Crore to Boost Digital Education, Health, Entrepreneurship in Tribal Schools of Chhattisgarh

New Delhi, July 19: In a landmark initiative aimed at empowering tribal youth through education and innovation, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) and Coal India Limited (CIL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support 68 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across Chhattisgarh. The ₹10 crore commitment by CIL, under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, is expected to benefit over 28,000 tribal students.

The project will be implemented through the National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC), a Section 8 company under MoTA.

Key Interventions Under the MoU

CIL’s support will focus on a multi-pronged approach aimed at enhancing the quality of life and learning experience for tribal students:

• Digital Education Infrastructure:
  Setup of computer labs across EMRS institutions with 3,200 computers and 300 tablets to promote tech-enabled learning.
• Health and Hygiene for Girl Students:
  Installation of around 1,200 sanitary napkin vending machines and 1,200 incinerators in schools and hostels to support menstrual hygiene management.
• Mentorship Programs:
  Introduction of comprehensive student mentorship to guide academic growth, mental well-being, and career planning.
• Entrepreneurial Boot Camps:
  Organisation of residential boot camps at premier institutes like IITs, IIMs, and NITs to cultivate leadership and entrepreneurial mindsets among tribal students.

A Vision for Equity and Excellence

The collaboration marks a significant stride toward realizing the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which calls for inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all. EMRS institutions, established by MoTA to provide high-quality education to Scheduled Tribe children, also ensure support for nutrition, health, and overall development.

Currently, 479 EMRS schools are operational across India, playing a critical role in connecting tribal communities with opportunities for higher education and employment.

Bridging Gaps, Building Futures

The MoU between MoTA and CIL exemplifies the government’s broader commitment to bridging educational disparities and empowering tribal youth through public-private partnerships. By integrating digital tools, wellness support, and entrepreneurial exposure, this initiative is expected to lay the foundation for a new generation of confident, capable, and future-ready tribal leaders.

“This is not just an education initiative; it is a movement to build futures and ensure that no child is left behind in India’s development journey,” said officials familiar with the implementation roadmap.