As of the latest update in the Lok Sabha on Monday, it has been disclosed that six states and Union Territories are yet to formalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Central government for the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) initiative. Additionally, it has come to light that one state, Punjab, has expressed its intention to withdraw from the originally signed MoU.

This revelation was made by Union Minister of Education for State, Annapurna Devi, in response to queries from BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal. The current status indicates that 29 states, Union Territories, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) have already entered into the MoU. However, states such as Bihar, Delhi, Kerala, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal have not yet signed the MoU, while Punjab has proposed withdrawal.

The PM-SHRI scheme, approved by the Union Cabinet in September 2022, represents a significant step towards the implementation of the National Education Policy, 2020. The primary objective of these schools is to serve as exemplars, showcasing best practices in education over time and providing leadership and guidance to other schools in the surrounding areas.

Annapurna Devi emphasized that the scheme envisions the establishment of over 14,500 PM-SHRI schools. This expansion is intended to be achieved by fortifying existing schools managed by central, state, and Union Territory governments, as well as local bodies. The minister further underscored that the six states and Union Territories yet to be part of the MoU have been persistently encouraged to join the PM-SHRI initiative for the greater benefit of their respective communities.

The PM-SHRI scheme’s overarching goal is to revolutionize the educational landscape, aligning with the broader vision outlined in the National Education Policy, 2020. It emphasizes holistic learning, innovative teaching methodologies, and infrastructure enhancements to create educational institutions that stand as beacons of excellence in the Indian education system.

It is worth noting that the initiation of this scheme reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a transformative and inclusive educational environment. By encouraging states and Union Territories to actively participate in the PM-SHRI initiative, the government aims to facilitate the creation of model schools that can inspire positive change throughout the nation’s educational landscape. The persistent outreach to the states yet to sign the MoU demonstrates the government’s dedication to ensuring widespread participation in this visionary educational initiative.