On May 13, 2025, the Kerala government announced its intention to approach the Supreme Court to challenge the Centre’s decision to withhold Rs 1,500 crore in education funding. This action stems from Kerala’s refusal to adopt the Prime Minister’s Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme, highlighting a significant dispute over educational governance in India.
Understanding the PM SHRI Scheme
Objectives and Funding
The PM SHRI scheme, launched by the Union Ministry of School Education and Literacy, aims to transform over 14,500 schools into model institutions aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. With a total project cost of Rs 27,360 crore, the Centre contributes Rs 18,128 crore over five years (2022–2027). The funding model follows a 60:40 ratio between the Centre and states, with special provisions for North Eastern and Himalayan states.
Implementation Across India
Adoption and Resistance
As of May 2025, 12,400 schools across 670 districts have joined the PM SHRI scheme. However, states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal have opted out, refusing to sign the required memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Union Ministry, citing concerns over educational autonomy.
Kerala’s Opposition to PM SHRI
Concerns Over State Autonomy
The Kerala government views the PM SHRI scheme as an extension of the NEP 2020, which it believes promotes a centralized educational agenda. The state argues that adopting the scheme could undermine its autonomy over education, prompting its decision to prioritize independent educational initiatives.
Kerala’s Educational Achievements
Independent Initiatives
Despite not participating in the PM SHRI scheme, Kerala has made significant strides in education. The state has established 40,000 smart classrooms equipped with broadband connections, showcasing its commitment to modernizing educational infrastructure and enhancing learning environments.
Rationale for Legal Action
Impact on Educational Programmes
The withheld Rs 1,500 crore is critical for funding various schemes under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), which focuses on providing universal elementary education for children aged 6 to 14. The Kerala government contends that the lack of these funds could disrupt numerous educational programmes, affecting students and teachers across the state.
Future Implications
Tensions in Educational Governance
The dispute between Kerala and the Centre highlights broader tensions in India’s educational governance, particularly regarding the balance of power between state and central authorities. The outcome of Kerala’s legal challenge could set a precedent for how educational funding and policy decisions are managed in the future.
Key Facts About the Dispute
- Event Date: May 13, 2025
- Amount Withheld: Rs 1,500 crore
- Scheme Involved: Prime Minister’s Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI)
- Kerala’s Initiative: 40,000 smart classrooms with broadband
- Funding Programme Affected: Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA)
- Project Duration: PM SHRI scheme spans 2022–2027