Sports
Inclusion

Promoting Grassroots Sports at EMRS

Strengthening sports infrastructure in Eklavya Model Residential Schools to nurture potential and inclusion.

5

EMRS Institutions

3

NE States

4+

Sports

835+

Students Benefitted
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Introduction

The North Eastern region of India is home to a rich diversity of tribal communities across all eight states, making it a key focus area for inclusive development and educational advancement. In many remote and rural areas, access to quality schooling and holistic growth opportunities has historically remained limited, especially for tribal children.

Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) have emerged as an important bridge between tribal communities and mainstream education by providing quality residential schooling in accessible locations. Beyond academics, these institutions play a vital role in reducing dropout rates, promoting continuity in education, and creating pathways for long-term socio-economic progress. Integrating sports within these schools is equally important, as it supports physical well-being, discipline, teamwork, and talent development among young students.

Our Intervention

Our approach focuses on strengthening grassroots sports ecosystems within educational institutions, creating opportunities for young students to train, compete, and realise their potential. In the North East, we have supported sports infrastructure across five Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) in Tripura, Mizoram, and Sikkim.

The interventions include the development of volleyball courts, basketball courts, multipurpose courts, and table tennis facilities. These spaces are designed to provide structured sporting opportunities within school campuses, enabling students to access quality infrastructure close to where they learn and live. By integrating sports facilities within EMRS campuses, the initiative encourages participation, builds confidence, and helps identify emerging talent from tribal and rural communities.

Impact

The initiative has created access to quality sports infrastructure for 835+ students across five EMRS institutions in the North East. Students now have dedicated spaces to play, train, and develop skills in multiple disciplines within their own school environment.

By strengthening sports opportunities in tribal and remote regions, the intervention is helping nurture grassroots talent, promote holistic development, and inspire greater participation in sports among the youth of the North East.