In a significant move to enhance employability and career pathways for tribal students, the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tata Motors Limited (TML).

This collaborative agreement, signed on 09th July, 2025, aims to jointly facilitate skill-linked education and employment opportunities for tribal students completing their Grade 12th from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), specifically through their enrollment in the prestigious Tata Motors Kaushalya Program.

This five-year MoU, effective from the date of signing, underscores a shared commitment to improving the quality of life for socially disadvantaged communities. It aligns with national development goals and the Sustainable Development Goals by focusing on employability and education, providing a structured pathway for tribal youth to integrate into the skilled workforce.

It is expected to benefit over 50,000 Class XII students enrolled in EMRSs across 28 states and 8 union territories.

Strategic Objectives of the Partnership:

The core purpose of this collaborative relationship is to further the common interests of bothorganizations in livelihood generation. The project is specifically designed to:

• Jointly facilitate skill-linked education and employment pathways for tribal students who have completed Grade 12 from EMRS.
• Enable the enrollment of these students into the comprehensive Tata Motors Kaushalya Program.

Key Aspects of Collaboration:

• Students will be selected based on specific criteria: they must be aged 18-23, have a minimum of 60% marks in their SSC (10th standard) exams, and be completing their 12th standard from an EMRS.
• The program offers a structured "Earn & Learn" model, combining a Diploma in Engineering with weekly university/institution-led classes, On-the-Job Training (OJT) aligned with NSQF, and regular semester exams and assessments as per university guidelines.

• Disbursing monthly stipends as per applicable laws, providing subsidized canteen and transport services, uniforms, PPE, and covering students under insurance (Mediclaim up, Personal Accident Insurance as per Workmen Compensation).
• To provide opportunity to high performing students to pursue self-funded or sponsored higher education such as B. Tech through partnerships (e.g., BITS Pilani WILP).

• Placement assistance upon program completion, adhering to a "One Trainee, One Job" policywith opportunities at TML's manufacturing and service locations across India.
• A Joint Review Committee, comprising members from both TML and NESTS, will oversee the program's progress. 

Way Forward

This collaboration marks a significant step towards empowering tribal youth by providing them with industry-relevant skills and direct pathways to employment. It is anticipated to create a positive ripple effect, fostering economic independence and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of tribal communities across the nation.

Note:

About NESTS: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, dedicated to providing quality education to tribal students through Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) across India.

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