Assam: Rs 120 Crore Released for 382 PM-SHRI Schools in State

Staff Reporter

Guwahati: A total of 382 schools in the state have been included in the first two phases of the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme. Until now, schools have been selected under four phases of PM SHRI, and a total of 12,084 schools are now included under the scheme.

Assam’s 382 schools selected under the PM SHRI scheme fall in number 12 across the country.

According to Education Department sources, 266 schools were selected in the first phase and 116 in the second phase, bringing the total to 382. Of this, 88 are primary schools, 33 are elementary schools, 138 are secondary schools, and 123 are senior secondary schools in the state.

The centre approved funds amounting to Rs 127.47 crore for the PM SHRI scheme in Assam in FY 2023-24, of which an amount of Rs 57.35 crore was released in that fiscal year. In 2024-25, the centre approved Rs 296.28 crore, of which Rs 62.6 crore has been released until November 2024.

The PM-SHRI scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet on September 7, 2022. The scheme is intended to be implemented over a period of five years, from 2022–2023 to 2026–2027.

The PM SHRI scheme aims to enhance educational quality, infrastructure, and student outcomes in PM SHRI schools. Activities such as Learning Enrichment Programs (LEP) focus on remedial teaching for students in classes 6-12, ensuring that all learners meet the required competency levels. Regular teacher capacity-building programs, including training of principals, teachers, and special educators, are to be conducted to enhance pedagogical skills. Competency-based assessments and the introduction of holistic report cards ensure a well-rounded evaluation of students.

To enhance infrastructure, the PM SHRI scheme has a provision to equip PM SHRI schools with science labs, ICT-enabled smart classrooms, libraries, furniture, and playgrounds. Further, Atal Tinkering Labs and digital learning tools like smart boards support modern, technology-driven education. Efforts like the introduction of LED lighting, composting facilities, and medicinal gardens create eco-friendly “green schools.”

The PM SHRI scheme aims to focus on holistic development to improve student outcomes in PM SHRI Schools. Initiatives include the provision of vocational education through hands-on training, resource persons, and internships, which link students with sector skill councils. Extra-curricular activities like nature study camps, Olympiads, and exposure visits for students to enrich the learning experience.

Under the PM-SHRI scheme, provision is made for the development of sports facilities and the engagement of yoga and sports coaches to promote physical well-being. Career counselling, soft skills training, and activities supporting science and math learning cultivate a competitive edge while preparing students for future challenges.

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