Between Funds and Ideology – PM SHRI, Pg 14.

Key Highlights:

• Kerala became a signatory to PM SHRI after initial opposition from the CPI(M)-led LDF government citing lack of consensus.
• The scheme aims to develop 14,500 model schools (including KVs, JNVs, and State/UT schools) showcasing NEP 2020 principles.
• States must bear 40% of the cost (10% for NE & Himalayan states, 100% for UTs without legislatures).
• Opposition-ruled states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal had resisted, alleging the scheme pushes an RSS or NEP ideological agenda.
• PM SHRI focuses on infrastructure, digital learning, pedagogy reforms, and competency-based education.
• Funding and branding remain contentious — Kerala has now signed but temporarily paused implementation due to coalition protests.

Detailed Insights:

• Scheme Objectives:
  • Envisions “21st-century schools” aligned with NEP 2020 emphasizing critical thinking, inclusivity, and modern pedagogy.
  • Schools to feature ICT-enabled learning, STEM and vocational labs, digital libraries, and quality assessment frameworks.
• Funding & Administration:
  • Centrally sponsored with shared costs; States must co-finance and manage selected schools through a State/UT PM SHRI Committee.
  • Schools selected from existing government and aided institutions.
• Political and Ideological Resistance:
  • The CPI and CPI(M) in Kerala argued the scheme is imposed under NEP 2020, which they view as ideologically driven by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
  • Tamil Nadu opposed the three-language formula under NEP; West Bengal objected to “branding and naming” conditions.
• Governance & Federal Implications:
  • Reflects Centre–State friction in implementing centrally sponsored education schemes.
  • States fear central schemes could erode educational autonomy and cultural diversity in curricula.
• Administrative Significance:
  • PM SHRI represents a performance-linked model where funding ties to measurable outcomes in learning quality, inclusivity, and innovation.
  • The Centre expects to demonstrate scalable public school excellence, potentially influencing policy harmonisation across India.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Competency-Based Learning: Focuses on developing measurable skills rather than rote memorization; aligns with Outcome-Based Education (OBE).
• ICT in Education: Integration of digital tools, smart classrooms, and online learning platforms for enhanced teaching-learning outcomes.
• Quality Assessment Framework (QAF): A monitoring tool under PM SHRI to evaluate student and institutional performance based on defined metrics