India's PM Shri School Initiative

Summary of PM Shri Scheme for Schools

Overview:

• Launched on September 7, 2022, the PM Schools for Rising India (PM Shri) scheme aims to develop over 14,500 model schools in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• Total financial allocation: ₹27,360 crores for the period of 2022-23 to 2026-27.

Objectives:

• Equip students with 21st-century skills.
• Enhance infrastructure, pedagogy, inclusivity, and sustainability in schools.
• Create a conducive learning environment for holistic student development.

Progress:

• As of July 2026, 13,092 schools have been selected across 36 states/UTs, achieving around 90% of the target.
• Beneficiary students: Over 2 million expected to benefit directly from the scheme.

Selection Process:

• Schools undergo a three-stage "Challenge Mode" selection process based on predetermined quality standards.
  1. MoU Signing: States/UTs sign MoUs with the central government for necessary support.
  2. Identification of Eligible Schools: Schools identified through U-DISE+ data based on minimum criteria.
  3. Challenge-based Selection: Schools compete to meet the standards, with inspections confirming compliance.

Key Features:

• Inclusivity and Equality: Focus on providing quality education to diverse backgrounds, enhancing accessibility in rural and marginalized communities.
• Technology Integration: Emphasis on ICT facilities, smart classrooms, and digital learning platforms to foster a modern educational environment.
• Quality Infrastructure: Schools evaluated on safety, accessibility, and adequate facilities.
• Experiential Learning: Promotion of active participation in learning, including play-based and experiential methods.

National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 Alignment:

• The scheme operationalizes NEP 2020 principles by shifting towards a holistic, inclusive, and future-ready educational framework.
• Curriculum aligns with the 5+3+3+4 structure outlined in NEP.

Financial Investment:

• Central government allocation for the scheme is ₹18,128 crores, with an increase from ₹2,520 crores in 2023-24 to ₹5,224 crores in 2026-27, reflecting a 107% increase.

Expected Outcomes:

• Establishment of model schools that serve as benchmarks for quality education.
• Development of responsible and skilled citizens contributing to a just and inclusive society.
• Continuous professional development for teachers and school leaders to enhance educational standards.

Geographical Reach:

• The scheme covers 725 districts and 8,340 blocks/urban local bodies, demonstrating a wide institutional and regional presence across India.

Constitutional References:

• The scheme aligns with the Fundamental Right to Education under Article 21A of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing the right to free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years.

Conclusion: The PM Shri scheme represents a significant transformation in India's school education system, focusing on quality, inclusivity, and future readiness, while operationalizing the principles of NEP 2020 through a structured and well-funded approach.