Gujarat Approves ₹1.5 Crore for Tribal Schools in Aravalli

ARAVALLI : In a move aimed at closing the infrastructure gap for tribal students, the Gujarat government has approved ₹1.50 crore for upgrading facilities at Ashramshalas, grant-in-aid hostels and secondary schools in Aravalli district.

The approval, granted under the New Gujarat Pattern Scheme under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, is expected to benefit around 4,922 students across 29 institutions. The funding will be used to improve both classroom infrastructure and residential facilities for students from tribal communities.

The initiative has been taken under the guidance of Tribal Development Minister Naresh Patel and Minister of State Poonamchand Baranda.

The approved facilities include bunk beds with mattresses, student benches, washing machines, solar rooftops and RO water purification systems. While improved furniture is expected to create a better classroom environment, bunk beds and mattresses will strengthen accommodation facilities for students staying in hostels and Ashramshalas.

Washing machines will help institutions manage daily hostel requirements, while RO systems will provide access to safer drinking water. Solar rooftops are also expected to promote renewable energy use and reduce dependence on conventional power.

The government said the initiative reflects a broader approach in which tribal education is viewed beyond classroom learning, with accommodation, sanitation, drinking water and other daily requirements forming an important part of students’ educational experience.

Implementation will follow prescribed procurement policies, financial regulations and quality-control procedures. Equipment suppliers will be required to provide demonstrations and training to staff, while warranty and after-sales support will also be considered.

Authorities will maintain stock records and conduct regular inspections to ensure transparency and proper utilisation of funds.

The government said the investment is intended to create a safer, more supportive and modern learning environment while advancing its objective of providing equal and quality educational opportunities to students in tribal areas.