NMDC Limited, India’s largest iron ore producer, has launched fully sponsored education initiatives aimed at empowering tribal youth in Chhattisgarh, under its CSR drive. The programmes include the Balika Shiksha Yojana for tribal girls and a Medical Technology Programme for underprivileged tribal boys and girls. Applications close on 28 June and 30 June 2025, respectively.

1. Balika Shiksha Yojana – For Tribal Girls

This flagship initiative provides 100 per cent free education in nursing to tribal girls from Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma, Kondagaon, Bijapur, and Narayanpur districts. The programme offers 200 seats across B.Sc Nursing (4-year, 110 seats) and GNM (3-year, 90 seats) courses at reputed Hyderabad-based institutes such as Apollo School of Nursing, Yashoda School of Nursing, and KIMS College of Nursing.

Each student will receive full funding worth Rs 1.2 to 1.5 million, covering tuition, hostel, and academic expenses. Eligible candidates must have a family income below Rs 72,000 per annum. The last date to apply is 28 June 2025.

2. Medical Technology Programme – For Tribal Youth

In partnership with Apollo University, Chittoor, NMDC is also offering 90 fully funded seats in Allied Healthcare B.Sc. programmes for ST students from Dantewada and Bastar. Courses include Emergency Medical Technology, Imaging Technology, Medical Lab Technology, Anaesthesiology & OT Technician, Physician Assistant, and Renal Dialysis Technology.

Sixty per cent of seats are reserved for girls and forty per cent for boys. Like the nursing scheme, this programme also provides up to Rs 1.5 million per student. Applications are open until 30 June 2025.

For over six decades, NMDC has played a pivotal role in Chhattisgarh’s development through its major mining operations. These educational initiatives reaffirm its commitment to inclusive growth and creating livelihood opportunities for tribal youth through professional training and skill development.