Assembly SC/ST committee inspects Pahamsyiem Eklavya Model residential school

Shillong: The Committee on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Wednesday conducted an inspection of the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Pahamsyiem, Nongpoh, to assess its infrastructure and operational readiness.

The inspection was led by the Chairman of the Committee and MLA from Nongstoin, Gabriel Wahlang, accompanied by Committee Member Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh and the MLA of Nongpoh, Mayralborn Syiem.

During the visit, school authorities apprised the Committee of certain initial challenges and infrastructure gaps that need to be addressed to ensure the institution’s smooth functioning and long-term sustainability. Particular concern was raised regarding the Girls’ Hostel, which currently lacks several essential facilities.

Addressing the media, Wahlang stated that the observations and inputs gathered during the inspection would inform a comprehensive report to be submitted to the State Government for necessary intervention. He emphasised that identifying and addressing these early-stage issues is critical to ensuring that all upcoming EMRS institutions in Meghalaya are equipped to deliver quality education in line with prescribed standards.

He further noted that the learnings from the Pahamsyiem EMRS would serve as a guiding framework for the development and strengthening of similar residential schools across the state.

The Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) are a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, aimed at providing quality middle and secondary education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

In Meghalaya, the Pahamsyiem EMRS is the first fully functional institution under this scheme, having commenced its academic session in December 2025. A second EMRS at Samanda in East Garo Hills became operational in early 2026.

The State Government has outlined an ambitious roadmap for expanding tribal education infrastructure, with 38 EMRS institutions sanctioned across Meghalaya as of 2025. With an estimated investment of ₹1,400 crore, the initiative seeks to establish at least one EMRS in every eligible block with a significant tribal population, thereby bridging educational gaps and enhancing access to quality residential schooling.