The Kerala government has put the implementation of the Centre’s PM SHRI scheme on hold. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the decision on Wednesday, citing “controversies and concerns” surrounding the central school program. A seven-member Cabinet sub-committee will now review the scheme, with further proceedings paused until its report is submitted.
This halt follows extensive internal discussions within the ruling CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. A significant deadlock emerged due to strong opposition from the Communist Party of India (CPI), a key coalition partner. Both the CPI’s state and national leadership took a firm stand against Kerala’s participation in the PM SHRI scheme.
Understanding the PM SHRI Scheme
The Prime Minister Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme is a Central government initiative. It aims to upgrade existing schools across India. The scheme focuses on improving infrastructure and teaching methods, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. PM SHRI schools are intended to become model institutions. They would showcase modern, transformational, and holistic education approaches.
The scheme proposes to upgrade over 14,500 schools nationwide. These include Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas, alongside state government-run schools. Schools under the scheme would receive central funding. They would implement NEP principles, including competence-based learning and experiential education.
Kerala’s Stance and Key Concerns
Kerala’s decision to put PM SHRI on hold highlights existing tensions between the state and central education policies. The state has previously voiced reservations regarding aspects of the National Education Policy 2020. Critics in Kerala often cite concerns about curriculum autonomy. They also worry about potential impacts on the state’s distinct educational standards and cultural identity. The state government consistently emphasizes maintaining its established educational approach.
Multi-level discussions among CPI(M) and CPI leaders, overseen by Chief Minister Vijayan, failed to resolve the deadlock. The strong objections from the CPI leadership could not be overcome. The CPI leadership expressed concerns over perceived centralization of education policy. They also raised questions about the scheme’s funding mechanisms and its alignment with Kerala’s long-standing educational philosophy.
Cabinet Sub-Committee to Review PM SHRI
A seven-member Cabinet sub-committee will now thoroughly study the scheme’s implementation. General Education Minister V Sivankutty chairs this committee. The committee includes six other ministers. Their role is to examine all aspects of PM SHRI. This includes its financial implications and its policy alignment with state educational goals.
The full list of committee members is:
- V Sivankutty (Chairman, General Education Minister)
- K Rajan
- P Rajeeve
- Roshy Augustine
- K Prasad
- K Krishnankutty
- A K Saseendran
The committee’s report is crucial. Its findings and recommendations will determine the future of PM SHRI in Kerala. The state government will formally communicate the implementation hold to the Centre through an official letter.
Impact and Next Steps
The temporary halt means that selected schools in Kerala will not immediately proceed with PM SHRI upgrades. This affects potential federal funding for infrastructure development and educational enhancements. Students and educators in these schools will await the sub-committee’s final decision. The review period allows Kerala to assess the scheme thoroughly. It provides an opportunity to address specific concerns.
The outcome of this review could set a precedent for other states. It highlights the ongoing debate between federal and state powers in education. Education remains a concurrent subject in India. Both the Centre and states can legislate on it. The committee’s report is expected to detail its findings and provide specific recommendations. This will inform the Kerala government’s ultimate decision on PM SHRI.