President Draupadi Murmu conversed with 146 meritorious students and alumni of Akalva Ideal Residential Schools (EMRS) on 12 November 2026 at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi. The event was held under Tribal Pride Week 2026.
The President urged students to achieve excellence, stay connected to their roots and contribute to the development of their communities. She said that the true value of education is realised only when its benefits reach the people and regions from which they come.
Central Tribal Affairs Minister Shri Juel Oram delivered the welcome address and encouraged students to set high goals, maintain discipline and pursue their dreams with confidence.
Highlighting the role of EMRS, the President explained that the institution provides tribal students with quality education, higher education opportunities and professional career prospects.
During the programme, NESTS screened a short film depicting the success stories of EMRS students and their journey from schools to their dreams.
The President honoured the secretaries/Principal Secretaries of the Tribal Welfare Departments of Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha, five district collectors and five top EMRS principals.
Your work matters
Through EMRS, tribal students receive academic opportunities and equal participation. The programme saw 146 students, including top rankers in classes 10 and 12 and entrants to IIT, NIT, NLU, NIFT and government medical colleges.
- Equal participation of boys and girls in EMRS reflects progress towards inclusive development.
- The President inspired students to take pride in their cultural heritage and maintain strong ties with their villages and communities.
- Outstanding tribal startups contributing to entrepreneurship and innovation were also awarded.