Mail News Service
Ranchi, Dec 22: In a landmark step towards educational empowerment, the Jharkhand government on Monday launched a free residential coaching programme for medical and engineering entrance examinations exclusively for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, signalling a decisive shift in the state’s education landscape.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren inaugurated the Dishom Guru Shibu Soren Engineering and Medical Coaching Institute at Hindpiri in Ranchi, asserting that students of Jharkhand will no longer need to migrate to other states to prepare for competitive exams like JEE and NEET.
“This institution is not merely a coaching centre—it is a symbol of education, culture and unity,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the initiative reflects a long-term vision to secure the future of tribal youth.
He urged students to remain disciplined, focused and committed, assuring them of the government’s continued support.
During the inauguration, the Chief Minister also unveiled a statue of Shibu Soren, describing the legendary leader as a perennial source of inspiration for generations of students.
In its first phase, 300 meritorious ST students have been selected for admission to the institute, which is being run under the supervision of the welfare department in collaboration with a reputed coaching institution from Kota, Rajasthan.
The fully residential programme offers expert faculty, comprehensive study material, tablets with e-content, library access and digital learning facilities, along with separate hostels for boys and girls—entirely free of cost.
Emphasising holistic development, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure the creation of adequate sports and recreational facilities within the campus, noting that sports play a crucial role in building discipline, confidence, teamwork and leadership.
He also advocated for a second chance for capable students who narrowly miss selection in the aptitude test, observing that many talented candidates are held back by circumstances rather than ability.
Officials said the initiative has been launched under the Jharkhand Scheduled Tribe Educational Upliftment Programme and is open only to permanent ST residents of Jharkhand whose parents are not in regular government service.
Welfare Minister Chamra Linda, Rajya Sabha MP Mahua Maji, Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Singh, senior officials and other dignitaries were present at the event.
Meanwhile, the state government is preparing to roll out similar free residential coaching schemes for Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes and minority students, with implementation expected from the next academic session following budgetary approval.
The initiative marks a decisive move towards making quality, competitive education accessible within Jharkhand, ensuring that talent from the state can compete—and succeed—on the national stage.
