Shillong, Mar 25: The Committee on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly today 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 Nongstoiñ MLA Gabriel Wahlang, accompanied by committee member Ampareen Lyngdoh and 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 Pahamsyiem EMRS is the first fully functional institution under this scheme in Meghalaya, having commenced its academic session in December 2025. A second EMRS at Samanda in East Garo Hills became operational in early 2026.
Altogether 28 EMRS institutions have been sanctioned across the state. With an estimated investment of Rs 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.
The EMRS is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs aimed at providing quality middle and secondary education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
