Suryathejus R.
Introduction
Kerala is a state in India. Sometimes, Kerala does not quickly agree with plans made by the central government. They take the time to think carefully before saying yes.
A few years ago, the Indian government made a new rule for schools called the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Some states like Kerela, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, did not like this rule at first. They thought it might not be fair or right for students.
Kerela also did not agree with a health plan called Ayushman Bharat. This plan was supposed to help people get free or cheap health care. But Kerela thought there were some political reasons behind it, so they said no at first. Later, Kerela changed its mind because the plan gave money to help people’s health, and they wanted their people to get that help.
Now, something like this is happening in schools again. At first, Kerela did not like the NEP 2020. But now, Kerela has decided to join a new school plan called PM SHRI. This plan is made bye the central government to make schools better with learning, teachers, and school facilities.
So, Kerela’s story shows that sometimes a state may say no to a new plan at first, but later it may also say yes if it helps the people.
Understanding PM SHRI
PM SHRI, the government of India started a big plan. The plan wants to make a more than 14,500 schools better for students. These schools will give good, fair and compete education to everyone.
This plan is part pf another program called Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. It follows the ideas of the NEP 2020. The schools will help children from pre-school to class 12 learn in a way that is fair, fun, and helps them understand things properly.
Objectives of PM SHRI:
· Create a safe, inclusive, and enriching learning environment for every student.
· Foster holistic development and equip students with 21st-century skills.
· Promote civic responsibility and prepare students to become contributing citizens.
· Implement experiential, inquiry-driven, and learner-centered pedagogy.
Key Features of PM SHRI
1. Inclusive Education: Schools accommodate diverse socio-economic backgrounds, multilingual needs, and varying academic abilities.
2. Regional Leadership: PM SHRI schools provide mentorship to nearby schools, creating a network of best practices.
3. Green Schools: Emphasis on sustainability through solar panels, LED lighting, nutrition gardens, waste management, and water conservation.
4. Innovative Pedagogy: Inquiry-based learning, play/toy-based activities in foundational years, discussion-centered approaches, and flexible teaching methods.
5. Competency-Based Assessment: Focus on conceptual understanding, real-life application, and measurable learning outcomes.
6. Resource Optimization: Regular evaluation and systematic bridging of gaps in school infrastructure and resources.
7. Industry Linkages: Collaboration with local industries and Sector Skill Councils to enhance employability.
8. Quality Assurance: A School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF) monitors school performance and ensures consistent standards.
Selection Methodology
PM SHRI schools are selected through a “Challenge Mode”, encouraging schools to compete to become exemplary institutions. The selection process comprises three stages:
· Stage 1: States/UTs sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to fully implement NEP, agreeing to support schools in achieving PM SHRI standards.
· Stage 2: Eligible schools are identified based on UDISE+ data and minimum performance benchmarks.
· Stage 3: Schools from the eligible pool compete by fulfilling challenge conditions, verified through physical inspections.
Each block or urban local body is allowed a maximum of two PM SHRI schools, ensuring equitable distribution across regions.
Implications for Kerala
Kerala’s adoption of PM SHRI represents a significant policy shift, reflecting pragmatism and recognition of national educational priorities. Potential benefits include:
· Identifying and addressing weaknesses in school implementation through systematic data collection.
· Developing self-sufficient and sustainable models for schools post-2027.
· Disseminating best practices across school networks to enhance overall education quality.
This evolution demonstrates Kerala’s ability to balance political caution with practical engagement in national policy initiatives.
At first, Kerela was not sure about the New Education Policy (NEP 2020). But now, the state has decided to join the PM SHRI plan. This shows that Kerela wants to help all children get a good and fair education.
By joining, PM SHRI, Kerela wants schools to be a place where every child can learn well, grown in many ways, enhance their skills and also feel included. The plan will help children get ready for the future and become smart, responsible, and confident.
PM SHRI follows the idea pf NEP 2020 and will change the schools for the better, so children can have a happy, safe, and exciting learning experience.
References (APA 7th Edition)
· Business, F. (2024, July 14). Budget 2024: PM SHRI scheme – Key Features, Selection Methodology Explained – Budget 2024 News. The Financial Express. https://www.financialexpress.com/budget/budget-2024-pm-shri-scheme-key-features-selection-methodology-explained-3553285/
· Press Information Bureau. (n.d.). Cabinet approves a new centrally sponsored scheme – PM SHRI Schools (PM Schools for Rising India). https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1857409 · NIC. (n.d.). PM Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI). https://dsel.education.gov.in/pm-shri-schools
· Business Standard. (2024, December 26). What is the PM-SHRI scheme? Retrieved January 4, 2025.
· Sharma, M. (2022, September 8). What is PM SHRI and how will it change education in 14,500 schools across India? India Today. Retrieved January 1, 2025.
· The Hindu. (2022, September 7). Union Cabinet approves PM SHRI schools scheme. Retrieved January 2, 2025.
· The New Indian Express. (2024, July 10). 800 schools to be upgraded under PM SHRI in Odisha. Retrieved January 4, 2025.
· Harigovind, A. (2024, July 17). What is PM SHRI, the ‘showcase’ schools scheme that Centre is pushing in states? The Indian Express. Retrieved January 3, 2025.
· Deccan Chronicle. (2022, September 5). Modi announces PM-SHRI scheme for upgrading 14,500 schools. Retrieved January 3, 2025.
