Bhubaneswar, December 10: Out of the 111 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) sanctioned in the State of Odisha, as many as 47 EMRSs are functional and 64 are at different stages of construction, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Wednesday.

Replying to an un-starred question in the Upper House, Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey said the main reasons for the delay in the construction of EMRSs are non-availability of encumbrance-free land, lack of proper approach roads and topography challenges.

The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) carried out its first drive for direct recruitment of 10,391 posts through EMRS Staff Selection Exam (ESSE)-2023 on all India basis and selected teaching and non-teaching staff have been posted in various EMRSs.

The notification of ESSE-2025 for filling of 7,267 teaching and non-teaching posts has also been issued. In addition, State Governments have also been advised to engage staff on deputation as well as on outsourcing basis so that academic activities are not hampered.

To ensure quality education and holistic development of tribal students, various facilities have been provided in these schools like Smart Classrooms and Modern Libraries, Science and computer labs, residential facilities for students and staff, facilities for extracurricular activities like sports, art and music, regular health check-up and vocational training. Regular training programs and workshops for Principals as well as teachers are also conducted to enhance their capability.