From Forest Classrooms to Future Doctors: Eklavya Schools Are Writing a New Chapter in Tribal Education

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai addresses the students during ‘Eklavya Samvad at his official residence in Raipur on Tuesday July 28, 2026 ‘, encouraging them to pursue excellence in education while remaining committed to compassion and public service-Photo Credit-primelookindia.com via CMO

At ‘Eklavya Samvad’, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai tells NEET achievers that perseverance, discipline and service to society are the true hallmarks of success

By Prime Look Editorial Desk

Raipur: Every success story begins with a dream. For many students studying in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across Chhattisgarh’s remote tribal regions, that dream once seemed distant. Today, many of them are stepping into India’s most prestigious medical colleges after clearing NEET-2026, proving that determination and opportunity can overcome even the toughest circumstances.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai poses with NEET-2026 achievers from Eklavya Model Residential Schools during the ‘Eklavya Samvad’ programme at his official residence in Raipur on Tuesday July 28, 2026 -Photo Credit-channel24india.com via CMO .

Recognising their remarkable achievement, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai interacted with the successful students during the ‘Eklavya Samvad’ programme at his official residence in Raipur. The event was not merely a felicitation ceremony; it was an inspiring dialogue on education, perseverance, public service and the future of tribal youth in a rapidly changing Chhattisgarh.

“Study hard, move ahead and become partners in building a developed Chhattisgarh.”
— Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

Congratulating the students, the Chief Minister described their success as a proud moment not only for their families but also for the entire state and particularly the tribal community. He said the achievements of Eklavya students prove that talent does not depend on geography or economic background. Given proper guidance, quality education and unwavering determination, every student can compete at the national level.

Students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools participate in an interactive session with Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, discussing higher education, medical careers and opportunities for tribal youth at his official residence in Raipur on Tuesday July 28, 2026 -Photo Credit-channel24india.com via CMO

Drawing inspiration from the legendary archer Eklavya, after whom the schools are named, Sai reminded students that success is never accidental.

“Like Eklavya, remain focused on your goal. Success always belongs to those who practise with discipline, dedication and self-belief.”
— Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

The interaction soon transformed into a candid discussion as students from different districts asked questions about higher education, career opportunities, medical studies, scholarships and the government’s vision for education in tribal regions.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai joins students for a group photograph, celebrating the growing success of tribal students in national competitive examinations at his official residence in Raipur on Tuesday July 28, 2026 -Photo Credit-channel24india.com via CMO

The Chief Minister highlighted how Chhattisgarh’s educational landscape has changed dramatically over the years. From having only one medical college at the time of the state’s formation, Chhattisgarh today has 15 medical colleges, with five more government medical colleges being established. Institutions such as IIT, IIIT, the National Law University and the Central University have further expanded opportunities for young learners.

One of the most encouraging announcements for rural students was the availability of medical education in Hindi, ensuring that language is no longer a barrier for aspiring doctors.

“Language should never become an obstacle for talent. Every deserving student deserves an equal opportunity to succeed.”
— Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

The Chief Minister also stressed that becoming a doctor carries responsibilities beyond academic excellence.

He urged the students to become compassionate professionals who understand that medicine is fundamentally about serving humanity.

“A doctor’s greatest identity is not only medical knowledge but compassion, humility and service towards every patient.”
— Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

Quoting Saint Kabir’s famous couplet on the importance of teachers, Sai reminded students that every success is built upon the guidance of parents and mentors. He encouraged them never to forget those who shaped their journey.

The discussion also focused on the government’s efforts to ensure that financial hardship does not prevent talented students from pursuing higher education. Scholarships, education loans, financial assistance through welfare schemes and the expansion of the Delhi Tribal Youth Hostel from 50 to 200 seats are intended to support students preparing for UPSC, medical and engineering entrance examinations.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the state’s 34 Nalanda campuses, where students can access online and offline study resources around the clock while preparing for competitive examinations.

“Government investment in education is an investment in the future leadership of Chhattisgarh.”

Students from Bastar and other tribal districts raised questions about educational opportunities in remote regions. Responding to them, the Chief Minister said that areas once affected by Left-Wing Extremism are gradually witnessing improved roads, schools, healthcare facilities and educational institutions.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai takes a selfie with students following the interactive ‘Eklavya Samvad’ session, marking a memorable celebration of the achievements of Chhattisgarh’s young tribal scholars at his official residence in Raipur on Tuesday July 28, 2026 -Photo Credit-channel24india.com via CMO

He said closed schools are being reopened while modern Education Cities are being developed in Jagargunda and Orchha, following the model of the successful Jawanga Education Hub, so that quality education reaches even the most remote tribal areas.

“Education is becoming the strongest instrument for transforming Bastar’s future.”

Sai also introduced students to the newly launched Chief Minister Helpline 1076, encouraging them to directly communicate any issues related to education, hostels or public services. According to him, responsive governance and accessible public services are essential for empowering young citizens.

When students asked about maintaining a healthy routine amid public life, the Chief Minister shared his own experience of over three decades in public service. He advised students to adopt discipline, regular exercise, yoga and balanced nutrition, stressing that a healthy body supports a focused mind.

As the interaction concluded, Sai urged the young achievers to remain grounded despite their success and dedicate their knowledge to society.

“Your success should become an inspiration for future generations. Serve society with knowledge, integrity and compassion.”
— Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

The programme reflected more than academic achievement. It showcased a changing Chhattisgarh where students from remote tribal villages are increasingly competing on equal footing with their peers across the country.

The journey of these NEET achievers demonstrates that when quality education, government support and personal determination come together, dreams once considered impossible can become reality.

For the Eklavya students who gathered in Raipur, the interaction was not simply a meeting with the Chief Minister. It was a reminder that their journey has only just begun. As future doctors, they now carry not only their personal aspirations but also the hopes of thousands of young tribal students who dream of following the same path.