The following schemes are being implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to improve the literacy among tribals : I. Pre-Matric Scholarship II. Post Matric Scholarship III. Hostels for ST Girls and Boys IV. Establishment of Ashram Schools in Tribal Sub- Plan V. Vocational Training in tribal areas VI. Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship VII. National Overseas Scholarship VIII. Top Class Education In order to cater to students from remote areas, this Ministry, through the State Governments and Voluntary Organizations, has established Ekalavya Model Residential Schools, Ashram Schools, Hostels for tribal boys and girls. In order to increase the scope of employment and increase the pool of employable tribal youth, Vocational Training Centers have been established in tribal areas. The Ministry has also been providing funds under Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub Plan and Article 275(1) for proposals to impart training to tribal youth in the fields of hospitality, teaching, nursing, para medical training, dairy development, computer training, etc. to ensure that the tribal youth, particularly the tribal girls/women, attain sufficient qualifications and enhance the local employable pool. Keeping in view the limited potential of even skilled persons in interior areas, each ST boy/girl is trained in two trades in his/her choice, the course in each trade being for duration of three months. Each trainee is to be attached at the end of six months to a master craftsman in a semi-urban/urban area for a period of six months, to learn his/her skills by practical experience. The scheme has been revised with effect from 1.4.2009 to provide enhanced financial benefits and to ensure linkages of vocational courses with recognized certificate/diploma through affiliation/accreditation of courses and institutions under Modular Employable Skills and Craftsman Training Scheme by National Council of Vocational Training of Ministry of Labour and Employment. This information was given by Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Shri Mansukhbhai Dhanjibhai Vasava in a written reply in Lok Sabha today. Samir/jk
