PM-SHRI Scheme

PM SHRI Scheme Latest News

Parliamentary Panel Urges Education Ministry to Release Pending Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) Funds

Why in the News?

• A Parliamentary Standing Committee has recommended the immediate release of over ₹4,000 crore in Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) funds to Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal.
• The funds have been withheld because these states have not signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the PM SHRI scheme.
• The report argues that SSA predates PM SHRI and is essential for implementing the Right to Education (RTE) Act.

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What is the PM SHRI Scheme?

• PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched under NEP 2020.
• Objective: To establish 14,500 model schools focused on:
  • Holistic education (experiential and inquiry-driven learning).
  • 21st-century skill development.
  • Eco-friendly infrastructure (green buildings, water conservation, waste recycling).
  • Competency-based assessment instead of rote learning.

Key Features of PM SHRI Schools

• Enhanced infrastructure: Labs, libraries, art rooms.
• Integration of technology: Smart classrooms and digital learning tools.
• Holistic learning approach: Play-based learning in the early years, with flexible teaching methods.
• School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF): Regular evaluation to maintain high standards.
• Selection through Challenge Mode: Schools apply to become PM SHRI schools based on performance.
• Budget: ₹27,360 crore for 5 years (2022-23 to 2026-27), with ₹18,128 crore as central share.

What is Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA)?

• SSA is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at ensuring universal access to quality education from pre-primary to higher secondary levels.
• It supports States in implementing the Right to Education (RTE) Act, which guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14 years.
• The scheme focuses on:
  • School infrastructure development.
  • Teacher training and recruitment.
  • Learning outcome improvements.
  • Inclusive education for disadvantaged groups.

PM SHRI Scheme FAQs

Q1. What is the PM SHRI Scheme?
Ans. The Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme aims to upgrade 14,500 existing schools into model schools with modern infrastructure.

Q2. What are the key features of the PM SHRI schools?
Ans. These schools focus on smart classrooms, skill-based learning, experiential education, and sustainability practices.

Q3. What is the funding pattern for PM SHRI schools?
Ans. The scheme follows a 60:40 funding ratio between the Centre and states (90:10 for Northeast and Himalayan states).

Q4. How does PM SHRI align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020?
Ans. The schools implement NEP recommendations, such as multilingual education and a holistic learning approach.

Source: TH