The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, celebrated its 8th Foundation Day on 1st April 2026 at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, NESTS continues to strengthen its commitment to advancing education for tribal communities across the country.

The event was graced by Shri Jual Oram, Hon’ble Minister of Tribal Affairs, as the Chief Guest. The occasion was also graced by Guests of Honour including Shri Durgadas Uikey, Hon’ble Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste, Hon’ble Chairman, Parliament's Committee on Welfare of SCs and STs, and Smt. Ranjana Chopra, Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The programme also saw the presence of other Hon’ble Members of Parliament.

The celebrations commenced with a welcome address delivered by the Commissioner of NESTS. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Shri Jual Oram, Hon’ble Minister of Tribal Affairs, commended the organization for its impactful role in managing Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs). He said, “When the vision for tribal education was collectively shaped and elevated at the highest levels of leadership, it became clear that education would be the foundation of transformation, with EMRS as its strongest instrument. What began as a limited initiative has today evolved into a national movement, driven by commitment, strengthened by institutions like NESTS, and built on the collective efforts of policymakers, principals, teachers, and students alike. Our goal is no longer just inclusion, but excellence.”

 

Echoing these sentiments, Shri Durgadas Uikey, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs said, “From the remotest forests and hills, where opportunities were once scarce, tribal students today are stepping into classrooms of excellence and daring to dream of IITs, hospitals, and leadership. This is not just about schools being built; it is about confidence being restored.”

Addressing the gathering as the Guest of Honour, Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste highlighted that tribal children are increasingly excelling in education, sports, and on national platforms, reflecting a significant shift towards inclusion, confidence, and national integration. He noted that the participation of children from remote tribal regions stands as a powerful testament to their aspirations rising above barriers and becoming an integral part of the nation’s development journey.

In her address, Smt. Ranjana Chopra, Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, emphasized that the growing success of tribal students in premier national institutions is being enabled through EMRS, which are fostering not only academic excellence but also holistic development, thereby translating opportunity into tangible outcomes.

 

The programme featured a comprehensive video presentation showcasing the key initiatives of and notable achievements of NESTS over the past one year, reflecting the initiative’s steady progress and growing impact. A total of 26 EMRS students were felicitated for their outstanding performance, including 10 students for academic excellence and 16 for achievements across diverse fields, celebrating their holistic development.

Adding vibrancy to the event, students from EMRS Tamenglong, Manipur presented a thoughtfully curated sequence of cultural performances, beginning with a soulful Saraswati Vandana, followed by an energetic dance, an engaging skit/drama, and culminating in a vibrant fashion show, collectively showcasing the rich traditions and heritage of the state’s tribal communities.

Through the EMRS initiative, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to empowering tribal communities through quality education, encouraging students not only to excel academically and grow holistically, but also to remain deeply rooted in their cultural identity.

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