Context:
The Kerala government on Tuesday announced it will pursue a legal course, along with protests on ground, to recover over Rs 1,500 crore allegedly withheld by the Centre. The funds, linked to centrally sponsored schemes, have reportedly been held back after Kerala refused to sign the PM SHRI scheme memorandum.
PM-SHRI Scheme: Transforming Schools into Models of NEP 2020 Implementation
Overview
- PM SHRI (Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India) is a centrally sponsored scheme, launched in 2022.
- It aims to develop over 14,500 model schools across India to demonstrate best practices from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
- The scheme focuses on revamping existing government schools, not creating new ones.
Objective
- To foster an inclusive, safe, and modern learning environment.
- Enhance student well-being, promote holistic development, and ensure access to quality infrastructure and resources.
Funding Pattern
- General States/UTs with legislatures: 60:40 (Centre:State).
- North Eastern & Himalayan States, UT of J&K: 90:10.
- UTs without legislature: 100% Central Government funding.
- States/UTs must sign an MoU with the Ministry of Education to participate.
Duration
- The scheme will run from 2022–23 to 2026–27.
- Post-2027, maintenance of standards becomes the responsibility of respective States/UTs.
Key Features of PM SHRI Schools
- Holistic Education focusing on communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.
- Modern infrastructure including:
- Smart Classrooms
- Integrated Science Labs
- ICT-enabled libraries
- Vocational/Skill Labs & Atal Tinkering Labs
- Green Practices: Emphasis on water conservation, waste recycling, and energy-efficient practices.
- Competency-Based Education with focus on real-life application through experiential and inquiry-based learning.
- Emphasis on inclusive education with support for diverse learning needs.
Eligible Schools
- Government schools under Centre/State/UT/local bodies.
- Includes all Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) that meet infrastructure norms and operate from permanent campuses.
Selection Process (Challenge Mode)
- Stage 1: State/UT signs MoU with Centre.
- Stage 2: Schools shortlisted using UDISE+ data.
- Stage 3: Eligible schools compete by meeting pre-defined quality criteria.
- Final selection by an Expert Committee chaired by the Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy.
Monitoring Mechanism
- School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF) will be used to:
- Monitor performance.
- Ensure institutional excellence.
- Conduct periodic evaluations to uphold educational benchmarks.
