Fresh push for implementation of PM SHRI in Bengal, Kerala, and T.N., Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The Union Education Ministry urged West Bengal, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu to implement the PM SHRI scheme after state assembly elections.
• Launched in September 2022, the PM SHRI scheme aims to transform 14,500+ schools into exemplar institutions.
• West Bengal has not signed the MoU despite 11 letters from the Centre since the scheme's launch.
• Kerala has kept the MoU in abeyance as of November 12, 2025, pending resolution of implementation concerns.
• Tamil Nadu has not completed the process despite 12 official requests and an undertaking to introduce the scheme in 2024-25.

Detailed Insights:

• The PM SHRI scheme is a five-year initiative designed to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 across India.
• The Centre emphasizes that delaying the MoU signing postpones the selection and development of PM SHRI schools, affecting students and the education system.
• The Ministry of Education has expressed concern that only a limited time remains to complete the scheme's five-year duration.
• 34 States and Union Territories have already moved forward with the scheme, highlighting the need for West Bengal, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu to expedite their decisions.
• The scheme aims to strengthen the education system by selecting existing schools to be upgraded with better infrastructure and innovative teaching methods.

Key Concepts Involved:

• PM SHRI Scheme: A central government initiative to upgrade existing schools into exemplar institutions.
• NEP 2020: The National Education Policy of India, introduced in 2020, outlining the vision and framework for education.
• MoU: A Memorandum of Understanding, a formal agreement between parties to establish cooperation.