Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) Scheme (GS Paper 2, Polity)
Recent Developments
- The Delhi government, following Punjab, is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the central government to implement the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme.
- This decision comes after the central government halted funds under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) for Delhi, Punjab, and West Bengal due to their initial reluctance to participate in PM-SHRI.
Overview of PM-SHRI Scheme
- The PM-SHRI scheme, launched in 2022, aims to enhance existing schools to align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
- The scheme’s goal is to establish over 14,500 PM-SHRI schools across India, showcasing advanced educational practices and quality infrastructure.
Funding Pattern:
- 60:40: Central and State Governments/UTs with Legislature (excluding Jammu and Kashmir).
- 90:10: North-Eastern and Himalayan States, and Jammu and Kashmir.
- 100% Central Funding: For Union Territories without legislature.
Duration:
- The scheme is planned from 2022-23 to 2026-27. Post this period, states and UTs will be responsible for maintaining the standards achieved.
Key Features of PM-SHRI Schools
Holistic Development:
- Emphasis on communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.
- Teaching methods will be experiential, inquiry-driven, and learner-centered.
Modern Infrastructure:
- Equipped with Smart Classrooms, Computer Labs, Integrated Science Labs, Vocational Labs/Skill Labs, and Atal Tinkering Labs.
- Facilities include modern labs, libraries, art rooms, and initiatives for water conservation and waste recycling.
Learning Outcomes:
- Focus on competency-based assessments and real-life application of knowledge.
Eligibility and Selection
Eligible Schools:
- Schools managed by Central/State/UT Governments and local bodies.
- All Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas (non-project) run from permanent buildings.
Selection Process:
- Stage 1: Signing MoU with the central government.
- Stage 2: Identification of eligible schools using UDISE+ data.
- Stage 3: Schools compete to meet specific criteria. Verification by States/UTs/KVS/JNV, followed by final selection by an expert committee led by the Secretary.
Monitoring and Assessment
- The School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF) will be used to monitor and evaluate the performance of PM-SHRI schools.
- SQAF sets standards and best practices for achieving excellence in educational institutions.
Relevance to National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
The PM-SHRI scheme is aligned with the NEP 2020, which aims to overhaul India’s education system to make it more inclusive and globally competitive. The NEP 2020 introduces:
- Universal access to education from pre-primary to Grade 12.
- A new 5+3+3+4 curricular structure.
- Integration of arts, sciences, curricular and extracurricular activities.
- Multilingualism and promotion of Indian languages.
- Establishment of PARAKH for holistic assessment and development.
- Gender Inclusion Fund and Special Education Zones for disadvantaged groups.
Conclusion
- The PM-SHRI scheme represents a significant step towards transforming school education in India, focusing on quality infrastructure, holistic development, and alignment with modern educational standards.
- By enhancing existing schools, the scheme aims to create a more inclusive, effective, and forward-looking education system, consistent with the objectives of NEP 2020.
