In a significant development for India’s school education landscape, the state of Kerala has officially decided to join the Central government’s Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) Scheme. This decision enables the state to access nearly ₹1,466 crore in pending central education funds, while still retaining control over its own educational policy framework and curriculum design.
About the PM SHRI Scheme
The PM SHRI Scheme was launched by the Union Ministry of Education in 2022 to develop 14,500 model schools across India, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
These schools serve as exemplars of quality education with:
- Smart classrooms and modern digital infrastructure.
- Competency-based learning and assessment.
- Vocational training integrated with mainstream subjects.
- Sustainable and inclusive practices promoting holistic education.
Under the scheme, funding is shared between the Centre and the states in a 60:40 ratio (for general states) and 90:10 ratio (for northeastern and hill states).
Kerala’s Decision and Approach
Initially, Kerala had opted out of the PM SHRI Scheme, citing concerns that participation might undermine its independent education policy and force NEP 2020 compliance, which the state government has not officially adopted.
However, after extensive discussions with the Union Ministry, Kerala has now chosen to join the scheme on cooperative terms—accepting the funds but continuing with its own state-level curriculum and education reforms.
This arrangement allows the state to:
- Receive ₹1,466 crore in central assistance.
- Upgrade selected government and aided schools into PM SHRI model institutions.
- Maintain the Kerala State Curriculum Framework (KSCF), aligned with the state’s pedagogical priorities.
Impact and Benefits
- Infrastructure Development: Funds will be used to upgrade classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sanitation facilities, and digital teaching tools.
- Teacher Training: Special provisions for teacher capacity-building and leadership programs under the PM SHRI framework.
- Digital and Green Schools: Kerala plans to integrate solar energy, ICT-enabled classrooms, and inclusive infrastructure in selected schools.
- Policy Autonomy Retained: The state will not be compelled to implement NEP 2020’s structural reforms (such as the 5+3+3+4 pattern), ensuring continuity with Kerala’s existing education model.
- Financial Strengthening: The inflow of ₹1,466 crore will significantly ease budgetary pressure and enhance school-level development projects.
Government Statements
- Kerala’s Education Minister stated that the state’s participation “is purely to ensure students and schools benefit from central funds” and that “Kerala’s education philosophy and curriculum reforms will continue independently.”
- Union Education Ministry officials welcomed the move, saying it reflects a “constructive model of cooperative federalism” where both Centre and states collaborate for educational excellence.
Challenges Ahead
- Administrative Coordination: Aligning central reporting systems with state-level education management structures.
- Implementation Monitoring: Ensuring funds are efficiently used for school improvement and not delayed by procedural hurdles.
- Curriculum Balance: Maintaining harmony between Kerala’s state syllabus and PM SHRI model frameworks without compromising local priorities.
Conclusion
Kerala’s decision to join the PM SHRI Scheme while safeguarding its educational autonomy marks a balanced and strategic move. It underscores the state’s commitment to quality education, inclusive development, and fiscal pragmatism. If implemented successfully, Kerala could set an example for other states seeking to blend innovation with independence in education reform.
FAQs
1. What is the PM SHRI Scheme?
Ans: It is a Central government initiative to develop model schools showcasing best practices under the National Education Policy 2020.
2. How much funding will Kerala receive?
Ans: Kerala is set to receive approximately ₹1,466 crore in central education funds under the scheme.
3. Will Kerala implement NEP 2020 now?
Ans: No. Kerala has joined the PM SHRI Scheme only for infrastructural and developmental benefits, while retaining its own state curriculum and education policy.
4. How many schools in Kerala will be upgraded?
Ans: Exact numbers are yet to be finalised, but the state plans to identify top-performing government and aided schools for upgradation.
5. Why is this decision significant?
Ans: It balances financial cooperation with the Centre and policy independence, ensuring Kerala benefits from national funding without altering its progressive education system.
My self Anita Sahani. I have completed my B.Com from Purbanchal College Silapathar. I am working in Dev Library as a Content Manager. A website that provides all SCERT, NCERT 3 to 12, and BA, B.com, B.Sc, and Computer Science with Post Graduate Notes & Suggestions, Novel, eBooks, Health, Finance, Biography, Quotes, Study Materials, and more.
