A new 480-seat Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) was inaugurated at Killa in Tripura’s Gomati district on Thursday, marking a significant expansion of educational facilities for tribal students in the region.
Tripura Legislative Assembly Speaker Rampada Jamatia formally inaugurated the institution, while Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma attended the programme as the chief guest.
The ceremony began with Jamatia unveiling the school plaque, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp. District officials, elected representatives, teachers, students, parents and local residents attended the event.
Addressing the gathering, Debbarma said the government was committed to ensuring that children from economically weaker tribal families were not deprived of education because of financial constraints. He highlighted measures being undertaken to strengthen educational infrastructure in tribal-dominated areas of the state.
The minister also referred to initiatives taken by the state government under Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha and various central schemes aimed at improving educational opportunities for tribal communities.
“Education is the foundation of progress. Without it, no community can achieve holistic development. Tribal boys and girls, once educated, will play a vital role in shaping the future of society and the state,” Debbarma said.
Speaker Jamatia stressed the importance of residential educational institutions in remote and tribal areas. He said Eklavya Model Residential Schools provide students with access to quality education as well as residential facilities and an environment that can help them pursue higher studies.
Jamatia expressed hope that the newly inaugurated school at Killa would help bridge educational gaps and create greater opportunities for tribal children and their families.
The EMRS programme is aimed at providing quality education to Scheduled Tribe students, particularly those living in remote areas. The residential school system seeks to provide academic facilities and accommodation under one roof, improving access to education for students who may otherwise face geographical or economic barriers.
Officials said the 480-seat facility at Killa is expected to benefit tribal students from Gomati district and surrounding areas while creating a stronger pathway towards higher education.
The inauguration programme concluded with a symbolic tree plantation drive involving ten invited guests, highlighting the importance of environmental responsibility alongside education.
