Team siliconindia

• Kerala signs MoU with Centre to join ‘PM SHRI Schools’ scheme.
• Two schools per block will receive Rs 1 crore annually for five years.
• Decision secures Rs 1,500 crore central funds for state education programs.

Kerala has officially joined the PM SHRI Schools scheme, signing a memorandum of understanding with the Union Education Ministry. The move comes after months of uncertainty and internal disagreements within the state government.

Under the scheme, two schools from each block in Kerala will receive central assistance to improve infrastructure. Each selected school will get an average annual funding of Rs 1 crore for five years. The initiative aims to enhance facilities and create a better learning environment in schools across the state.

V. Sivankutty, Education Minister, confirmed that the decision has been communicated to the Centre, and the state’s education department has been instructed to finalize the agreement. He emphasized that joining the scheme was crucial to secure Rs 1,500 crore pending for various educational programs in Kerala.

Earlier, the state had hesitated due to objections from the CPI and concerns over implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) and displaying PM SHRI branding in schools. Despite these concerns, the government proceeded without placing the issue before the Cabinet, prioritizing the opportunity to access central funds for school development.

Also Read: Indian Army Partners with DTU to Advance Defence Tech and AI Training

Officials said the PM SHRI Schools program will bring modern infrastructure, better learning resources, and upgraded facilities to participating schools, benefiting students and teachers alike. With Kerala now on board, the state is set to leverage central support to strengthen its education system while aligning with national quality standards.