Landmark MoU for Tribal Education
Coal India and NSTFDC Empowerment Drive for Tribal Students: Coal India Limited (CIL) and the National Scheduled Tribe Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 9 September 2025. The initiative focuses on strengthening education, health, and skill-building for tribal students studying in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS).
Project Objective
The project seeks to bridge educational gaps through digital infrastructure, mentorship programs, menstrual hygiene initiatives, and teacher training. It highlights the use of technology and capacity-building as tools for tribal empowerment.
Static GK fact: The NSTFDC was established in 2001 under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to provide financial assistance and development support for Scheduled Tribes.
Digital Access for Students
Coal India will provide desktops, tablets, and UPS systems to EMRS institutions. This will enhance digital literacy and ensure students have better access to online learning resources.
Static GK fact: Coal India Limited is the world’s largest coal-producing company, headquartered in Kolkata.
Career Mentorship Support
The MoU introduces structured career guidance programs. These include exposure visits, mentorship sessions, and skill-mapping exercises. Such steps will help tribal youth navigate pathways in higher education and employment.
Promoting Menstrual Hygiene
To ensure dignity and health for girl students, schools will be equipped with sanitary napkin vending machines and incinerators. This step will also address the issue of absenteeism linked to menstrual health challenges.
Teacher Capacity Building
Faculty at EMRS will undergo training workshops and digital teaching modules. The focus is on improving both pedagogical methods and technology-based learning techniques.
Strategic Significance
This collaboration is a model of public sector synergy, linking efforts of the Ministry of Coal, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and Ministry of Education. It combines social, educational, and health-oriented support for long-term impact.
Static GK Tip: Eklavya Model Residential Schools were introduced in 1997-98 to provide quality education to tribal children in remote areas.
Broader Impact
By addressing issues of digital access, health, mentorship, and teacher capacity, the project aims to overcome socio-economic barriers in tribal regions. It aligns with India’s inclusive development goals, ensuring tribal students are equipped for future opportunities.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Coal India and NSTFDC Empowerment Drive for Tribal Students:
| Topic | Detail |
| MoU partners | Coal India Limited and NSTFDC |
| Date of signing | 9 September 2025 |
| Target group | Tribal students in EMRS |
| Key focus areas | Digital access, mentorship, menstrual hygiene, teacher training |
| Digital support | Desktops, UPS systems, tablets |
| Mentorship plan | Career guidance, exposure visits, skill mapping |
| Menstrual hygiene support | Vending machines and incinerators in schools |
| Teacher training | Pedagogical and digital teaching workshops |
| Supporting ministries | Coal, Tribal Affairs, Education |
| CIL headquarters | Kolkata |
