ONGC Ltd. signed MoU with NSTFDC for execution of CSR funded infrastructure development of Eklavya Model Residential Schools

**Executive Summary** On January 5, 2026, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC). The MoU aims to empower tribal students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) through career mentorship, digital education, and infrastructure development. The initiative, funded through CSR, benefits over 35,000 tribal students in 144 EMRS across 11 States & UTs. **Key Points / Main Content** * **MoU Details:** * Signed between ONGC and NSTFDC. * Signed on January 5, 2026. * Exchanged between representatives of NSTFDC and ONGC in the presence of Secretary M/o Tribal Affairs and other officers. * **Project Scope:** * Focuses on empowerment of tribal students in EMRS. * Includes career mentorship and digital education. * Includes augmentation of infrastructure development. * **CSR Funding:** * ONGC sanctioned Rs. 28 crores. * Funds will strengthen digital learning infrastructure. * Funds will support health and hygiene interventions (sanitary pads vending machines & incinerators) for girl students. * Funds will provide capacity building of teachers and career counseling & entrepreneurship training of students. * **Beneficiaries & Location:** * Over 35,000 tribal students will benefit. * Located in 144 EMRS. * Spans 11 States & UTs (Andhra Pradesh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Kerala, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand). * **Ministry of Tribal Affairs Initiative:** * Steering the Central Sector Scheme of Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) to provide quality education to the tribal students. * 499 functional EMRS across the country as on date. **Impact Analysis** **Tribal Students:** * **Impact:** Receive enhanced educational opportunities, career guidance, and improved health and hygiene facilities. Will benefit over 35,000 students. * **Action Required:** Engage with available resources and mentorship programs. **Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS):** * **Impact:** Benefit from augmented infrastructure and improved learning environment through digital resources and trained teachers. * **Action Required:** Implement the changes in digital infrastructure, health interventions, and teacher training programs. **ONGC:** * **Impact:** Fulfills its CSR obligations by contributing to the socio-economic development of tribal communities. * **Action Required:** Ensure timely disbursement of sanctioned funds and monitor project implementation. **NSTFDC:** * **Impact:** Collaborates with ONGC to facilitate the empowerment of tribal students through educational initiatives. * **Action Required:** Facilitate project implementation at the EMRS schools in the 11 states.

Key Entities Referenced