CURRENT CONTEXT : The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, in partnership with UNICEF India, launched TALASH—a digital platform for the holistic growth of students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) across India.

 ABOUT TALASH:

• Full form: Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills & Self-Esteem Hub.
• Reach: Targeting ~1.38 lakh students in EMRSs across 28 states and 8 UTs.
• Platform Features:
  • Psychometric Assessments (inspired by NCERT’s Tamanna) offering aptitude-based Career Cards.
  • Career Counselling for guiding students towards suitable professional paths.
  • Life Skills & Self-Esteem Modules focusing on resilience, communication, and emotional well-being.
  • Teacher E-Learning Portal: So far, 189 teachers from 75 EMRSs trained, enabling peer-led expansion.
• National Rollout: To be implemented across all EMRSs by end-2025, with phased pilots underway.
• Objectives: Foster self-awareness, informed career choice, life skills, and mentor readiness—aligned with NEP 2020.