Kerala Joins PM SHRI Scheme Amid Political Rift Over Education Policy

— by vishal Sambyal

Kerala joins the PM SHRI scheme to modernize schools, sparking a political rift within the Left Front over fears of NEP 2020 implementation.

Kerala Steps Into PM SHRI — But Not Without Political Turmoil

Kerala, long known for its robust public education system, has taken a bold yet controversial step by joining the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme. The move marks a significant policy shift for the southern state, which had until now resisted central education initiatives linked to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

However, the decision has triggered a storm within the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, exposing deep ideological divides. While the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] insists the move is a pragmatic step to access federal funding, its coalition partner, the Communist Party of India (CPI), views it as a betrayal of Kerala’s independent education vision.

The Political Backdrop: A Rift Within the Left

The controversy erupted soon after the Kerala government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre to implement the PM SHRI scheme. The CPI, traditionally the second-largest party in the LDF, launched a full-blown revolt, warning that the scheme could “open the back door” for the National Education Policy 2020, which the Left has long opposed for its alleged centralization and “saffronization” of education.

CPI leaders accused the state government of compromising its ideological stance. “We cannot accept a policy that indirectly enforces NEP 2020 in Kerala,” a CPI leader reportedly stated, reflecting growing dissent within the alliance.

In response, Kerala’s Education Minister V. Sivankutty defended the government’s decision, calling it a strategic and financial necessity. He emphasized that joining the scheme does not mean surrendering Kerala’s educational autonomy. “We have ensured that our state policies remain intact while availing central funds to improve infrastructure and learning outcomes,” Sivankutty said.

With this move, Kerala joins most Indian states in implementing PM SHRI—leaving only Tamil Nadu and West Bengal as holdouts.

What is the PM SHRI Scheme?

Launched in September 2022, the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme aims to transform over 14,500 existing schools across India into model institutions of excellence. The total project cost is ₹27,360 crore for the period 2022–2027, jointly funded by the Centre and states.

The scheme is designed to showcase the best practices of the National Education Policy 2020, serving as “exemplar schools” that mentor others in their vicinity.

Key Features of PM SHRI Schools

  • Holistic Learning: Emphasis on cognitive development, critical thinking, and creativity.
  • Modern Infrastructure: Equipped with smart classrooms, science labs, libraries, sports facilities, and art rooms.
  • Sustainability Focus: Built as green schools with water conservation, waste recycling, and energy-efficient designs.
  • Inclusive Pedagogy: Multilingual, activity-based, and inclusive of diverse learning needs.
  • Competency-Based Assessment: Focused on conceptual understanding and real-world application rather than rote memorization.

The scheme envisions a 21st-century learning ecosystem that fosters innovation and prepares students for a rapidly changing global economy.

Why Kerala’s Decision Matters

For decades, Kerala’s education model has been autonomous, public-driven, and ideologically independent. The state has resisted the National Education Policy 2020, arguing that it imposes a centralized curriculum and weakens the federal character of education.

By signing onto the PM SHRI scheme, Kerala faces a policy paradox — aligning with a central initiative while attempting to maintain its progressive educational principles.

Experts note that the move reflects a balancing act between financial pragmatism and ideological consistency. “Kerala’s participation shows a nuanced approach — accepting central aid for school modernization without fully adopting NEP 2020’s framework,” said education policy analyst Dr. K. Radhakrishnan.

Public and Political Reactions

The decision has sparked mixed reactions among educators, parents, and political observers.

Many teachers’ unions have cautiously welcomed the initiative, noting that upgraded infrastructure and innovative pedagogy could benefit students. However, others worry that federal schemes often come with strings attached.

Opposition parties, particularly the Congress-led UDF, accused the LDF of double standards. “For years, the Left condemned NEP 2020 as anti-federal and ideological, but now they are implementing its showcase scheme,” said a UDF spokesperson.

Social media has also seen lively debates, with some praising the government’s practical approach, while others see it as a political compromise.

Implications for Education in Kerala

If implemented effectively, the PM SHRI scheme could revolutionize Kerala’s school infrastructure and pedagogical standards, aligning them with global benchmarks. It could also help the state access much-needed central funding to modernize rural and government-run schools.

However, the challenge lies in ensuring that Kerala’s educational autonomy — particularly its emphasis on secular, inclusive, and equity-driven education — remains untouched.

The controversy also sets the stage for future political realignments within the LDF, as the CPI’s opposition could reshape coalition dynamics ahead of upcoming elections.

The Road Ahead

As Kerala moves forward with implementing PM SHRI, it faces the task of proving that collaboration doesn’t mean capitulation. Balancing federal cooperation with state independence will be crucial.

For now, the state stands at a crossroads — between ideology and innovation, between political resistance and educational reform.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and government announcements. It aims to provide balanced, factual reporting without political bias.