The Kerala government has put on hold its participation in the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme, opting instead to channel its resources and focus towards its state-run Samagra Shiksha Kerala (SSK) program. The decision comes amid the state’s ongoing efforts to preserve the autonomy of its education policies and ensure uniformity in developmental planning across its government schools.
The PM SHRI scheme, launched by the Union Government, aims to upgrade around 14,500 schools across India into model institutions showcasing the components of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. These schools are intended to act as exemplary learning centers that adopt best practices in digital learning, sustainability, and inclusivity.
However, Kerala’s education department has raised concerns about administrative overlap and dual funding mechanisms that might arise from participating in both PM SHRI and SSK simultaneously. Officials pointed out that several objectives outlined in the central scheme — such as improving classroom infrastructure, promoting experiential learning, and integrating technology — are already being implemented effectively under SSK.
A senior state education official explained that Samagra Shiksha Kerala is designed to cater to the unique requirements of Kerala’s school system, aligning closely with the state’s pedagogical framework and inclusive education goals. The initiative, which operates under the broader Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, integrates elementary, secondary, and higher secondary education schemes to provide a seamless learning experience.
Kerala’s Education Minister emphasized that while the state supports the objectives of national schemes, it prefers to retain control over fund allocation, monitoring, and execution. “We believe Kerala’s education model already mirrors the goals of PM SHRI. Our focus is on strengthening existing frameworks rather than duplicating efforts,” the minister said.
The decision has sparked discussions among education experts and political analysts. Supporters argue that Kerala’s education system is already among the best-performing in India, boasting near-universal literacy, gender parity in schools, and strong digital infrastructure. Critics, however, have expressed concern that opting out of the central scheme may limit access to additional funds and technical support from the Union Government.
According to state education department data, Samagra Shiksha Kerala has been instrumental in modernizing classrooms, enhancing teacher training programs, and implementing digital initiatives such as KITE Victers, which delivers televised and online learning content. The state also continues to invest in green initiatives, inclusive education, and mental health programs for students — all key components of the NEP framework.
Officials reiterated that the decision to pause PM SHRI participation is temporary and subject to review if future collaboration aligns with Kerala’s educational priorities. For now, the focus remains on optimizing the SSK model to ensure equitable access and holistic development across all schools in the state.
Conclusion
Kerala’s move to prioritize its own education program over a central initiative underscores its emphasis on policy independence and localized planning. By focusing on Samagra Shiksha Kerala, the state aims to consolidate its gains in public education and maintain its long-standing reputation as a national leader in literacy and academic innovation.
