Shillong, March 26: A Legislative panel has raised concerns over infrastructure deficiencies at the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) in Pahamsyiem, Nongpoh, following an inspection conducted on Wednesday, questioning the institution’s preparedness to function at full capacity.
The Committee on Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly visited the campus to assess facilities and review operational readiness. The inspection team was led by committee chairman Gabriel Wahlang, accompanied by members Ampareen Lyngdoh and Mayralborn Syiem.
During the visit, school authorities highlighted several early-stage challenges, particularly gaps in essential infrastructure. The girls’ hostel was identified as a key area of concern, with multiple basic amenities yet to be fully established.
Committee members indicated that their observations would be compiled into a report for submission to the state government, urging timely intervention. They stressed that addressing these shortcomings at an early stage is critical to ensure the school meets required standards and operates effectively.
The inspection holds added significance as the Pahamsyiem campus is the first fully operational EMRS in Meghalaya, having commenced classes in December 2025. Another school under the scheme has already become functional in Samanda, located in East Garo Hills, earlier this year.
The panel further noted that insights from the Pahamsyiem inspection could influence the rollout of similar residential schools across the state, where expansion plans are currently underway.
Eklavya Model Residential Schools are a central government initiative designed to provide quality education to Scheduled Tribe students in remote regions. Meghalaya has 38 such schools sanctioned under the programme, with an estimated investment of Rs 1,400 crore aimed at strengthening access to residential education in tribal-dominated areas.
