Sat Nov 01 19:34:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article based on that summary:
Summary
The article from The Hindu discusses the Prime Minister’s Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme, a centrally sponsored program launched in 2022 aiming to upgrade over 14,500 schools nationwide to model institutions reflecting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The scheme provides funding and resources to selected schools for infrastructure development, innovative pedagogy, and technology integration. While most states have joined the scheme, some, like West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, remain opposed for various reasons, including concerns about funding, branding, and the NEP’s three-language formula. Kerala initially resisted due to ideological objections to the NEP but agreed to join to receive pending funds for Samagra Shiksha, only to pause the decision after opposition from a coalition partner. The article details the scheme’s structure, selection process, and intended benefits, highlighting its focus on experiential learning, technology integration, and a comprehensive assessment framework.
News Article
Kerala Pauses PM SHRI School Scheme Amid Coalition Disagreement
Thiruvananthapuram, November 1, 2025 – Kerala’s government has put a halt to its participation in the Union government’s PM SHRI (Prime Minister’s Schools for Rising India) scheme just days after agreeing to sign on. The decision comes after a key coalition partner, the Communist Party of India (CPI), voiced strong opposition, citing a lack of consensus and ideological objections to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which the PM SHRI scheme is designed to promote.
The PM SHRI scheme, launched in 2022, aims to transform over 14,500 schools across India into model institutions with upgraded infrastructure, innovative teaching methods, and advanced technology. The program offers significant central funding, with the stated goal of creating well-rounded students equipped with 21st-century skills.
Kerala had previously resisted joining the scheme, citing concerns over the NEP’s alleged promotion of a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) agenda and communalization of education. However, facing pressure due to withheld funds for the Samagra Shiksha program (approximately ₹1,158.13 crore), the state government initially relented and agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
The about-face highlights the ongoing tensions between the Union government and some states over the implementation of the NEP. Several states including West Bengal and Tamil Nadu continue to refuse to join the PM SHRI program.
A cabinet subcommittee has been formed to re-examine the MoU and address the CPI’s concerns. The future of Kerala’s involvement in the PM SHRI scheme remains uncertain.
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