Shillong, March 25: The Committee on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Wednesday inspected the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Pahamsyiem in Nongpoh to assess its infrastructure and operational readiness. The inspection was led by Committee Chairman and Nongstoin MLA Gabriel Wahlang. He was accompanied by Committee Member Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh and Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem.
During the visit, school authorities informed the Committee about initial challenges and infrastructure gaps affecting the institution’s smooth functioning. Particular concern was raised over the Girls’ Hostel, which currently lacks several essential facilities.
Addressing the media, Wahlang said the findings from the inspection will be compiled into a detailed report to be submitted to the State Government for necessary action. “Identifying and addressing early-stage issues is crucial to ensure that EMRS institutions deliver quality education as per standards,” he stated.
He further noted that lessons learned from the Pahamsyiem EMRS will serve as a guiding framework for the development and strengthening of similar residential schools across Meghalaya. The Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) are a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at providing quality education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, especially in remote areas.
The Pahamsyiem EMRS, which began its academic session in December 2025, is the first fully functional school under the scheme in the state. Another EMRS at Samanda in East Garo Hills became operational in early 2026.
The State Government has sanctioned 38 EMRS institutions across Meghalaya, with an estimated investment of ₹1,400 crore. The initiative aims to establish at least one EMRS in every eligible tribal-majority block, improving access to quality residential education across the state.
