Kerala's Shift on PM SHRI and National Education Policy

Introduction

In October 2025, the Kerala government made a significant policy shift by joining the central government's Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme. This move marked a departure from its earlier stance of resistance to the scheme and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The decision has sparked debates about the state's educational autonomy, federal cooperation, and the political dynamics within the Left Democratic Front (LDF).

Background of the PM SHRI Scheme

Launched in September 2022, the PM SHRI scheme aims to upgrade 14,500 existing government schools across India into model institutions by 2027. The initiative focuses on enhancing infrastructure, integrating technology, and promoting holistic development. Each block is expected to have two such schools, one elementary and one secondary. In Kerala, approximately 300 government schools were identified for inclusion under this scheme.

Kerala's Initial Resistance

Kerala's initial opposition to the PM SHRI scheme was rooted in ideological concerns and apprehensions about the implementation of the NEP 2020. The Communist Party of India (CPI), a key ally in the LDF, expressed strong reservations, fearing that the scheme could pave the way for the imposition of the NEP, which the state had consistently opposed. Additionally, the requirement to display signboards featuring the Prime Minister's image in selected schools was viewed by some as an attempt to centralize education policy and promote a particular political ideology.

These concerns led to delays in the state's decision-making process, with internal disagreements within the ruling coalition further complicating matters.

The Turning Point

The turning point came when the central government withheld approximately ₹1,500 crore in pending funds under schemes like Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan due to Kerala's non-participation in the PM SHRI scheme. This financial strain prompted the state to reconsider its position. Education Minister V. Sivankutty emphasized that joining the scheme would enable Kerala to access these crucial funds, which are essential for various educational programs, including textbook printing, student grants, and infrastructure development.

Despite the CPI's continued opposition, the state government proceeded to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre on October 23, 2025, officially joining the PM SHRI scheme. The decision was made without prior consultation with the Cabinet or alliance partners, leading to further tensions within the LDF.

Implications for the National Education Policy

The NEP 2020, introduced by the central government, outlines a comprehensive framework for transforming India's education system. It emphasizes the promotion of multilingualism, integration of technology, and a shift towards a more holistic and multidisciplinary approach. Kerala had initially resisted the NEP, citing concerns over its compatibility with the state's existing educational policies and values.

By joining the PM SHRI scheme, Kerala has implicitly agreed to certain aspects of the NEP, particularly those related to school infrastructure and curriculum reforms. However, the state has maintained that it will continue to uphold its educational autonomy and will not impose the NEP's syllabus or ideological content in its schools. Education Minister Sivankutty clarified that Kerala would not adopt the NEP's curriculum and would teach students in line with the state's educational framework.

Political Dynamics and Internal Discontent

The decision to join the PM SHRI scheme has led to political ramifications within Kerala. The CPI's strong opposition to the move reflects deeper ideological divides within the LDF. The CPI's apprehensions about the centralization of education policy and the potential imposition of the NEP have fueled debates about the balance between federal cooperation and state autonomy.

Opposition parties, including the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), have criticized the government's decision. UDF leader Sunny Joseph accused the CPI(M) of forming a covert alliance with the BJP, suggesting that the move was politically motivated. However, the LDF has defended its decision, asserting that the primary objective is to improve educational infrastructure and access to resources for students.

Public Reaction and Educational Impact

The public's reaction to Kerala's participation in the PM SHRI scheme has been mixed. While some educators and parents welcome the infusion of central funds to enhance school facilities, others remain skeptical about the potential erosion of the state's educational values. Concerns persist regarding the preservation of Kerala's unique educational identity and the safeguarding of secular and inclusive teaching practices.

The implementation of the PM SHRI scheme is expected to bring tangible benefits to Kerala's schools, including upgraded infrastructure, improved teaching resources, and enhanced learning environments. However, the success of the initiative will depend on the state's ability to integrate these improvements with its existing educational framework and values.

Conclusion

Kerala's decision to join the PM SHRI scheme represents a pragmatic shift in its education policy, driven by financial considerations and the need to enhance school infrastructure. While the move has sparked political debates and concerns about the implementation of the NEP, it also presents an opportunity for Kerala to modernize its education system without compromising its core values. The state's approach will likely serve as a model for balancing federal initiatives with state autonomy in the realm of education.