Why in the news?

  • The government of Kerala has decided to join the PM SHRI scheme amidst oppositions against the decision.

PM SHRI Scheme

  • What is it?: PM SHRI stands for Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India, is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to develop the capabilities of the schools in India.
  • Objectives: To develop more than 14,500 schools across India as exemplary “NEP 2020 model schools”, demonstrating all components of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in an integrated and holistic manner.
  • Key Features:
    • Model Schools: Each PM SHRI School will serve as a “showcase” institution for implementing NEP 2020 reforms- covering pedagogy, assessment, and governance.
    • Holistic Learning: Focus on experiential, inquiry-based, and competency-based learning, integrating art, sports, and technology.
    • Digital Transformation: Use of smart classrooms, digital labs, and ICT-based teaching tools.
    • Skill Integration: Emphasis on 21st-century skills, vocational education, and local crafts.
    • Assessment Reforms: Continuous and comprehensive evaluation aligning with the new National Curriculum Framework (NCF).
    • Community and Parental Participation: Strengthened school-community linkages for inclusive governance.
    • Green and Inclusive Infrastructure:
      • Environment-friendly buildings (solar panels, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting).
      • Disabled-friendly facilities (Divyang-accessible).
  • Scheme Implementation:
    • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Education (Department of School Education and Literacy).
    • Coverage: Around 14,500 schools (both existing Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, State Government and Local Body schools).
    • Selection Criteria:
      • Based on transparent parameters via U-DISE+ data.
      • Maximum two schools per block/urban body (one elementary, one secondary/senior secondary).
    • Funding Pattern:
      • 60:40 between Centre and States/UTs (except NE & Himalayan states – 90:10, UTs – 100% Centre)
    • Duration: Implemented over 5 years (2022-23 to 2026-27).
  • Expected Outcomes:
    • Serve as lighthouse institutions for other schools.
    • Enhance student learning outcomes, digital literacy, and sustainability awareness.
    • Promote foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN), vocational exposure, and inclusive education.
    • Strengthen India’s progress toward SDG-4 (Quality Education) and the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.