Bhubaneswar, 09 April (H.S.): Eleven students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) in Odisha have successfully cleared JEE Main 2026 (Phase-I), marking a significant milestone in the state’s tribal education initiatives.

Topping the list of achievers is Avish Alam from EMRS Karanjia, who secured an impressive 97.50 percentile. Other successful candidates include Rinkirani Naik, Sunil Kumar Naik, and Sunia Hembram from EMRS Ranki; Samu Paleya from EMRS Karanjia; Estiphan Hembram, Pujarani Kisan, Deepa Kisan, Rabin Oram, and Salkhu Hembram from EMRS Lahunipara; and Thakur Murmu from EMRS Bhangriposi. Among these, EMRS Lahunipara recorded the highest number of qualifiers with five students.

To further support their academic growth, eight of the top-performing students have been selected for specialized JEE Advanced coaching under the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) in New Delhi. The selected students include three each from EMRS Karanjia and EMRS Lahunipara, one from EMRS Ranki, and one from EMRS Bhangriposi. They commenced their coaching program in the national capital, accompanied by escort teacher Priyanka Kumari.

Pranati Patro, Joint Director of the Odisha Model Tribal Education Society, expressed gratitude to Sri Ajeet Kumar Srivastav, Commissioner of NESTS, for facilitating this initiative and supporting the aspirations of tribal students.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda