SHILLONG: The state government is pushing for job reservation in the Centre’s Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across Meghalaya.
Addressing the state Assembly on Friday, Chief Minister Sangma reiterated the government’s pursuit of this crucial matter with the Centre, highlighting the potential creation of job opportunities with the sanctioning of reservation in EMRS.
In response to queries raised by Voice of People’s Party (VPP) MLA from Nongkrem, Ardent Basaiawmoit, Chief Minister Sangma stressed on his government’s commitment to the cause.
“Although we haven’t received written assurance from the Centre, we are actively pursuing the matter because EMRS facilities holds the promise of creating thousands of jobs,” the local press quoted him as saying.
He further disclosed discussions with the Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda regarding the sluggish pace of construction work in the state’s EMRS facilities.
Earlier in the day, during the question hour, Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma, clarified that while the state’s reservation policy currently does not apply to EMRS, efforts are underway to seek clarification on the matter from the Centre.
Notwithstanding, Rakkam noted the completion of infrastructure development in EMRS locations such as Pahamsyiem and Samanda, with the government eagerly awaiting the recruitment process to commence.
Earlier in 2021, the then Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui had announced that the Centre has allowed the state government to use its reservation policy in the recruitment of teachers for the upcoming EMRS.
The Centre, under the Tribal Affairs Ministry, has sanctioned approximately 40 EMRS for construction in Meghalaya.
Established in 1997-98, EMRSs aim to provide holistic education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) children in remote areas, accommodating 480 students from Class VI to XII.
These schools play a pivotal role in fostering academic excellence and overall development while receiving grants under Article 275(1) of the Constitution of India.
